Saint-Haon-le-Vieux lies on a hillside on the Côte Roannaise, between the Roanne plain and the mid-mountain range of the Monts de la Madeleine. Winemaking, farming and a mountainous area to the west shape different parts of the local landscape. There is also a route, natural rock formations and buildings that offer insights into local history. You can tailor your stay to the landscape, outdoor activities or heritage.
Landscape and Winemaking
The commune is divided into three landscape areas: a plain where livestock is raised, a hillside with vineyards and residential areas, and a mountainous area to the west. The hillside on the Côte Roannaise lies between the Roanne plain and the Monts de la Madeleine. The commune’s vineyards have been part of the AOC Côte Roannaise since 1994. The agricultural use of the plain and winemaking on the hillside are therefore two distinct aspects of the local landscape.
Walks, Route and Rocks
Along the La Clef des Champs walk, information panels provide details about local agriculture. The car park for the walk is at Place de l'Église. If you plan to do La Clef des Champs, you can use this square as your parking point.
The Circuit des Pierres Saint Martin is an 11-kilometre route for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. The distance gives you a specific reference point for planning; check current route conditions before setting out.
Les Pierres Saint Martin are a natural attraction consisting of around ten irregularly shaped rocks of different sizes. They are associated with 19th-century legends about Saint Martin and his donkey. The rocks can be visited at any time, free of charge and independently, either individually or in groups.
Local History and Religious Heritage
Only ruins remain today of the Château de Beaucresson; the castle was surrounded by wide moats. It was built in the Middle Ages by a family of lords from Saint-Haon-le-Châtel. The ruins and the history of its construction make the castle part of the area’s medieval history.
Restoration of Saint-Abonde Church was completed in 2025. In 2026, the church is open year-round for individual visits and group visits.
The Lavoir d'Arfeuillette was one of seven washhouses built by the commune in the 1920s. At the request of the Patrimoine et Culture association, the commune restored the washhouse. In 2026, individual visits without a guide are possible at any time, free of charge. Before travelling, check the local conditions for visiting the church, the rocks and the washhouse.
The Oratory also tells the story of the area’s religious past: it was built in the 19th century on the initiative of Abbé Seguin as a replica of the Lourdes grotto. Historically, pilgrims visited the Oratory to celebrate the feast on 15 August.
Discover more destinations: Cordelle, Sail-Sous-Couzan, Saint-Jean-La-Vêtre, Briennon, Violay, Nervieux, Rive-De-Gier, Vendranges.
For the regional travel overview: Loire.
