Royat combines thermal history with a distinctive landscape: the town centre lies on a lava flow in the Chaîne des Puys – Limagne fault tectonic area, and above Royat, the arboretum sits on the Route du Puy de Dôme. Roman bathing facilities, sacred architectural history and a museum about the fashionable heyday of thermal tourism are also among the town’s discoveries. If you are looking for accommodation in Royat, you can first consider whether you would like to shape your stay more around culture and history or around landscapes and walking routes.
Landscapes and walking routes around Royat
The Royat Arboretum covers 41 hectares and contains nearly 600 species of centuries-old trees. Two signposted walking trails with free access lead there on foot. Check local trail conditions before your visit. The arboretum’s size and the variety of its trees make it a nature destination in its own right during your stay.
The Chemin des Crêtes offers a different perspective: the route runs along the Colombier forest, affords panoramic views and takes walkers and mountain bikers to the foot of the Puy de Dôme. Here, the landscape along the route takes centre stage; at the arboretum, it is the old trees and their diversity of species. The Tiretaine Valley adds to these nature and walking themes in the thermal district: it has been laid out as a park, with paths for walkers.
Thermal history and historic buildings
The Thermes de Royat were built by architect Agis Ledru and opened in 1856. Monumental arches, Ionic columns and statues evoke the spa town’s Gallo-Roman past. The Roman Baths offer a separate historical thread: they were discovered in 1876 during construction of the railway viaduct. A swimming pool with tiered seating and semicircular stands is still visible; the site has been listed as a historic monument since 1889. This makes it possible to view the opening of the Thermes de Royat in the 19th century and the discovery of the Roman baths as distinct chapters in the town’s history.
The Taillerie de Royat is also part of the protected architectural heritage. It has been fully protected as a historic monument since 20 May 2015, including its technical equipment and enclosing railings. The Église Saint-Léger dates from the late 12th or early 13th century. The fortified complex of the church and adjoining priory includes a crypt and still has a preserved wall walk; admission is free.
The Musée de Royat presents the town’s history, particularly the era of fashionable thermal tourism. Historical objects, costumed figures, manuscripts, postcards and posters are among the exhibits. Bruno Charrain accompanies visitors as their guide. The Pavillon Saint-Mart can be visited during exhibitions or through the town’s tourist office. Check this option before your trip.
Plan your stay around your interests
These differences can help you choose excursions that suit your stay, without trying to fit every theme into a single itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Usson, Saint-Ours, Neuf-Église, Jumeaux, Courpière, Le Quartier, Cournon-D'auvergne, Antoingt.
For the broader travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.
