Renaison brings together architectural history, craftsmanship and landscape. The Chapelle Saint-Roch, the clogmaking craft of the Saboterie Drigeard and the walking trails by the Barrages de Renaison offer different themes for a stay. The town is also a stage on two pilgrimage routes.
Chapelle Saint-Roch and Panoramic Views
The present-day Chapelle Saint-Roch was built between 1869 and 1872. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Renaison’s rooftops and the surrounding landscapes. Architectural history and views come together in one place; the focus differs from the forest walks near the Barrages de Renaison. If you would like to include both culture and landscape in the same trip, the chapel offers a distinctive cultural highlight.
Forest Trails and the Barrages de Renaison
The Barrages de Renaison offer viewpoints and walking trails through a mid-mountain forest. The landscape of the Barrages de Renaison is listed in the Loire’s inventory of scenic landscapes. This area therefore offers both specific trails and viewpoints, as well as a distinctive landscape setting.
There are picnic tables at the site of the Barrage du Chartrain. A trail with several purpose-built small footbridges leads to a natural waterfall. The summit of the Barrage du Chartrain can also be reached on foot via a marked trail. These are different destinations to consider in your plans: the waterfall along a trail, or the summit as the destination of the marked walking route. Check local conditions before setting out for the summit. The picnic tables provide a specific place to take a break.
The Douglas Président stands near the Barrage du Chartrain by Renaison. Its height is given as 66.62 metres; in 2021, the tree was recognised as an “Arbre Remarquable” (Remarkable Tree). The award and the height provide two different points of reference for considering the tree as a distinct landscape feature.
Clogmaking and Pilgrimage Routes
The Saboterie Drigeard represents a clogmaking tradition that has continued for eight generations. It showcases the craft of making wooden clogs, both in the past and today. Unlike the Chapelle Saint-Roch, the focus here is not on a building, but on craftsmanship and production. If you are planning to attend a demonstration, check the visiting arrangements in advance.
Renaison is a stage on the Way of St James and the Via Sancti Martini. This dual role as a route stop is a distinct point to consider when planning your trip: if you would like to plan your stay around a pilgrimage route, you can decide in advance which of the two routes is your priority. The chapel, clogmaking and forest trails offer different themes to explore.
Winegrowing and Finding Accommodation
Renaison lies in the heart of a wine-growing region and is linked to the Route des Vins Forez-Roannais. The town is also known for its dams and the Douglas Président. Alongside culture and nature, winegrowing and the route offer further aspects to consider when choosing where to go.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Bonnet-Le-Château, Saint-Bonnet-Des-Quarts, Saint-Marcel D'urfé, Ouches, Villerest, Saint-Régis-Du-Coin, Saint-Romain-D'urfé, Épercieux-Saint-Paul
For the broader travel overview: Loire.
