In Besse-Et-Saint-Anastaise, things to discover range from Besse’s preserved architecture to volcanic landscapes such as Lac Pavin. There are also seasonal options for winter sports and summer activities in Super-Besse. Whether you want to focus on historic townscapes, scenery or outdoor activities at a particular time of year can give your trip planning a clear direction.

Besse: History in the Townscape

Besse was established in the 12th century as a trading crossroads between the Limagne plain and the mountains of the Massif du Sancy. The medieval and Renaissance town has preserved its architecture, narrow streets and some of its fortifications. Besse was fortified in the 15th century. These historic layers shape the town’s cultural character.

The cultural and historical walking tour of Besse takes 45 minutes and includes 14 information panels. Its set duration makes it easy to plan the visit as a separate activity. At Place de la Gayme stands a 16th-century fountain listed as a Monument historique.

The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Vassivière is also part of the region’s history. Built in the 16th century, it is an important pilgrimage site and houses the Black Madonna every summer. If you are interested in living traditions, the Fête de l’estive offers another cultural connection: since 1994, it has begun with a procession of Salers cattle herds through Besse’s medieval streets. At the event, traditional crafts and agricultural activities are demonstrated at Lac Pavin. Check the event dates in advance if you would like to include the festival in your trip.

Volcanic Landscapes and Nature Destinations

Lac Pavin is a volcanic maar lake formed around 6,900 years ago. It is 92 metres deep and covers an area of 44 hectares. These dimensions give the lake a clearly defined profile; its origins also make it a distinctive natural feature to explore during your trip.

Along the Couze Pavin, the Cascades de Chiloza form a succession of numerous waterfalls over a kilometre. The riverbed contains potholes eroded into the lava. So while Lac Pavin is notable for the shape and formation of a lake, Chiloza stands out for its series of waterfalls and the sculpted lava in the riverbed.

Puy de Chambourguet is a volcanic vent at an altitude of 1,520 metres above Super-Besse. The summit offers views of Lac Pavin, the scree slopes and the surrounding area; marmots can occasionally be spotted. A marked out-and-back trail leads to the summit from the Super-Besse mountain station and takes two hours. Trail conditions can vary, so it is worth taking them into account when planning.

Winter and Summer Activities

When snow conditions are optimal, Super-Besse offers a ski area on the southern side of the Sancy with more than 40 kilometres of slopes for all ability levels. The Besse-Pertuyzat Nordic area has more than 48 kilometres of cross-country ski trails and four snowshoe routes. Your preferred activity—alpine skiing, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing—is a useful guide when choosing between these winter options. Snow conditions and the ski area’s layout can change; check the latest information before a winter visit.

In summer, Super-Besse offers hiking trails accessible by cable car or chairlift, downhill mountain biking trails and an adventure water park at a swimming lake. As seasonal operating conditions may change, check the latest information about activities when making specific plans.

A Glimpse of Local Production

Brasserie du Sancy in Besse produces organic beer from pure malt and works with products that are as local as possible. This is a concrete example of local production that adds another dimension to the cultural and natural attractions.

Find Hotels by Travel Interest

This way, you can tailor your choice to the experiences that matter most to you during your trip.

Discover more destinations: Cunlhat, Pontaumur, Champeix, Montaigut-Le-Blanc, Bagnols, Royat, Fournols, La Bourboule

For the broader travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.