A 700-metre-long artificial river at the foot of the dam makes water a distinctive feature of Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf; at the same time, the towpath and former silk weaving mill tell the story of the town. The town therefore offers several specific highlights for choosing a destination: water activities, cycling routes and historic buildings.
Water activities with seasonal variations
At the foot of the dam, the Espace Eaux Vives du Pilat Rhodanien has a 700-metre-long artificial river. More peaceful activities, such as canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, are available on the lake at the Espace Eaux Vives. Operations may vary by season; the availability of lake activities is also seasonal.
The Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf leisure centre offers orienteering, activities in both calm and white water, pétanque and volleyball. Swimming is prohibited. Check the leisure centre’s current operating arrangements before your visit to make sure these conditions fit your plans.
Cycling on the ViaRhôna and named routes
The Espace Eaux Vives site is on the ViaRhôna. The “VAE Saint-Pierre-de-Bœuf” route starts at the Espace Eaux Vives and runs 3 km through vineyards towards the hamlet of Chézenas. It also follows small roads on the Rhône balconies, passing through orchards and the vineyards of the Pilat, and includes Malleval, which is classified as a village of character.
Another option is the “VTT n°8 – Les Gorges de Malleval” mountain-bike route. It starts and ends at the Maison de la Lône in Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf and offers views of the Gorges de Malleval. Check the conditions for the route before setting off.
Towpath and silk history
The Tree of Liberty stands beside the towpath. It was planted in 1848 to celebrate the Second Republic, following the abdication of Louis Philippe. Also along the towpath, a few mooring rings and a “doll” remain visible, recalling the town’s river history; their visibility may vary.
The silk weaving mill is part of the town’s industrial history: in 1852, Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf had 300 looms working for the Fabrique Lyonnaise. In the 19th century, the weaving mills used steam power. During the 19th century, coal from Saint-Étienne first reached the village by water and later by rail.
Church construction and the Chapel of Chézenas
Work on the present-day church of Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf began on 2 February 1863. It was consecrated in July 1864, and work continued until 1883. The church is dedicated to the Apostles Peter and Paul.
The Chapel of Chézenas was built in 1705 for the family of Baron Bellet de St Trivier and transferred into communal ownership for the residents of Chézenas on 3 September 1807. It is in the Romanesque style and houses a depiction of Saint Vincent and an 18th-century processional cross. The chapel was restored in 1988. Its construction, dedication and furnishings offer a different historical focus from the town’s industrial and river history.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Julien-Molin-Molette, Fourneaux, Malleval, La Tourette, Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire, Saint-Marcellin-En-Forez, Sauvain, Violay
For the broader travel overview: Loire.
