Located in the east of Auvergne, the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park extends over three departments: Puy-de-Dôme, Haute-Loire and Loire. Today populated by more than 103 inhabitants, it brings together 000 municipalities and 163 associated municipalities, including Ambert, Billom and Lezoux, The Chaise-Dieu, Thiers. Constituting fairly compact and dynamic urban areas, these towns are only a few minutes from hiking trails. But also ski slopes and mountain lakes. Furthermore, they all have magnificent historic centers that are worth your visit. 

A committed and vibrant mid-mountain territory

This mid-mountain territory reveals a setting conducive to respectful immersion in nature. Here, the Hautes-Chaumes of Forez rise, followed by the glacial valleys of the Fossat and Reblats, and the basalt formations of montpeloux volcano. The Shire Forest, a true kingdom of oaks, as well as the volcano Mount Bar and Ground floor add to this mosaic of natural landscapes offering almost endless possibilities for walks and hikes.

Traveling the hiking trails allows an intimate encounter with these spaces, where the Dore valley rubs shoulders with the Forez and Livradois mountains. On the horizon, the chain of Puys, Sancy et the Alps emerge, enriching the panorama.
Livradois-Forez is characterized by its ecological diversity, including peat bogs, mountain heaths, alluvial forests, natural meadows, and numerous rivers. This rich ecological fabric forges the identity and unique character of the region.

The Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park, committed to the conservation of this heritage, encourages a respectful discovery of these natural treasures. Livradois-Forez is thus a destination of choice for enthusiasts of ecology and sustainable tourism, looking for authentic experiences in harmony with the environment.
Visiting Livradois-Forez means immersing yourself in varied nature and committing to its preservation. It is an invitation to appreciate the simplicity and tranquility of landscapes, while contributing to their protection for future generations.

Livradois-Forez: a natural park rich in its inhabitants and its heritage 

Open territory, the Livradois-Forez Park covers 300 hectares. Near Clermont-Ferrand et Vichy, it includes emblematic places such as Thiers, capital of cutlery, Billom and its famous garlic production, Ambert with its unique cheese-shaped town hall, and the ancient Benedictine abbey of La Chaise Dieu.

Once faced with a rural exodus, the region is experiencing a revival thanks to the arrival of new inhabitants. They are often looking for a living environment closer to nature.
This territory, mixing rural character and urban amenities, particularly attracts those wishing to get away from large metropolises. Family homes, once second homes, are once again becoming main homes, testifying to a desire to return to their origins. 
For many, a settlement in the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park is strategic, offering a perfect balance between proximity to the south and green surroundings. These new installations perfectly symbolize this underlying trend, the quest for reconnection with nature and a more balanced and eco-responsible lifestyle in the heart of Livradois-Forez.
These newcomers also bring diversity and know-how, enriching the community with a fresh and eclectic dynamic.

Thiers and the Thiers mountains bear witness to a changing industry, still anchored in the cutlery tradition, but also oriented towards other sectors such as automobiles, aeronautics and plastics processing. In Ambert and Arlanc, traditional paper and braid crafts have diversified to include the industrial production of cardboard and insulating sheaths, among others.
Local craftsmanship, the beating heart of the region, is expressed through diverse and varied trades. Ceramists, leather workers in Thiers, lava enamellers in Billom, pencil makers and basket makers in Olliergues, illustrators and stationers in Ambert, wood carvers in Beurières, lace makers and wood turners in Arlanc: these artisans share a common commitment to the preservation of traditional techniques in an eco-responsible approach. Together they form the Route des Métiers, an inviting journey to discover their workshops and their unique know-how, in a spirit of sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism.

Preserved and diversified natural treasures

Livradois-Forez, located in the Massif Central in France, is a territory whose formation dates back millions of years. Its genesis is linked to major geological phenomena, notably the Alpine folding which shaped its reliefs and valleys. During the Paleozoic, around 300 million years ago, this region was part of the Hercynian chain, a huge mountain range.

Interesting fact: At the time, the Hercynian range rivaled the current Himalayas in size. So imagine these gigantic mountains rising where there are hills and plateaus today. Over time, erosion has transformed this monumental landscape into gentle mountains, dense forests and valleys, as we know them in Livradois-Forez.

Livradois-Forez is also characterized by its geological diversity. There are varied rocks, witnesses to its eventful history: gneiss, granite, basalt, and many others. The region is volcanic, and it retains traces of these turbulent times. One of the most beautiful sites in France, to the south of the park, is home to a volcano hiding a peat bog in its crater: the Mhave bar, near the town of Allègre. 
These rock formations, associated with the richness of flora and fauna, make this region a privileged place for lovers of nature and geology.

Basaltic organs montpeloux volcano livradois natural park drill
Basalt organs of Livradois-Forez

Through its geographical and environmental wealth, the regional natural park thus has a wide variety of natural environments. Peat bogs and lakes, mountain moors, beech and fir forests, alluvial forests, dry mounds and hillsides, natural hay meadows, rivers and torrents make up this rich landscape. Its geography is such that nature is very close. Some hiking trail departures are in the heart of towns such as the country tour in Livradois-Forez ou the Little Turluron. The main road axis between Thiers and Ambert crosses the entire Dore valley, the backbone of the park. The Forez and Livradois mountains are visible. The highest point also: Pierre-sur-Haute, which looks at you from its 1634 meters.

The Livradois-Forez natural park: a vast secret territory, and it's not for nothing

The Livradois-Forez region, classified as a regional natural park in 1986, represents a delicate balance between economic, social and cultural development and respect for the environment. This area, rich in biodiversity and natural landscapes, places emphasis on the preservation of nature and its diverse fauna and flora.

The inhabitants of Livradois-Forez have been able to preserve the traditional techniques of many trades, such as papermaking, cutlery, weaving, and the production of Fourme d’Ambert AOP. These ancestral know-how, witnesses of a rich agricultural and industrial history, coexist today with dynamic and innovative industries.
Despite the rural exodus and the reduction in agricultural activity, the region retains a strong forest presence, covering half of its surface. Textiles, leather, paper and light metallurgy, present since the 15th century, continue to shape the character and culture of this area.

Livradois-Forez is home to a varied architectural heritage, ranging from artisanal constructions to religious and agricultural buildings, spread across small hamlets and towns. Despite its accessibility, the park requires rigorous protection to preserve its beauty and appeal. Strict regulations and the classification of certain sites as Sensitive Natural Areas and Natura 2000 support biodiversity while integrating human activities.

The use of rammed earth, an ancestral construction technique, is particularly notable in Livradois-Forez. Despite the decline of this method in favor of concrete and other modern materials after the 1950s, a renewed interest in rammed earth emerged. Residents and artisans now recognize its ecological, economic, social and cultural benefits. Innovations in rammed earth construction techniques offer solutions adapted to contemporary requirements, while preserving the unique identity and architectural heritage of the region.

You are free to try the adventure in Livradois-Forez

Family hike on the trails of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park.
At your convenience, according to your pace, explore this vast natural territory. Here, trails cross varied landscapes, inviting families, friends or couples to explore at their own pace. Hikes through forests, valleys and peaks offer moments of discovery and tranquility.

This territory is revealed through its villages, castles and museums, each telling a story of traditions and craftsmanship. It is a meeting place for those looking to connect with local history and the know-how of artisans.
Whether you are looking for calm, nature or cultural discoveries, Livradois-Forez offers a range of activities suitable for everyone. Let yourself be guided by the beauty of its landscapes and the richness of its heritage for an authentic and memorable experience. 

family hike auvergne natural park livradois drill
Family hike on the trails of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park

Welcome to Livradois-Forez!