Ambert is a small town, which, seen from the sky and by the configuration of its streets, has the shape of a snail's shell. Nestled between the Forez mountains and the Livradois mountains, its geographical position gives it dynamism and attractiveness. Its city center, very pleasant to explore on foot, is home to a historic district dotted with half-timbered houses. City renowned for its blue-veined cheese, the AOP fourme d'Ambert, it has been able to take advantage of its production. Other know-how is to be discovered such as the manufacture of paper, industrial braid and rosaries, as well as the artisanal techniques of screen printing.

Explore the historical legacy of Ambert

You may not know that Ambert is a medieval town that contributed significantly to the history of papermaking in France.
Since the Middle Ages, Ambert has established itself as an important center of stationery, influencing the production methods that defined this era.
As you stroll through the medieval district, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, you can immerse yourself in this flourishing period when paper mills dotted the Durolle River, using its energy to transform rags into precious leaves.
Over the centuries, the paper industry has left an indelible mark on the city, shaping its identity and its economy. Today, Ambert celebrates this heritage through its museums and cultural centers such as the Moulin Richard de Bas or the Moulin de Nouara.

Visit Ambert and its surroundings

Stroll through the historic district with its small streets and alleys where the summer freshness is delicious during a shopping session. You can explore remarkable buildings such as the Gothic Saint-Jean church and the round town hall, reminiscent of the shape of the famous Fourme d'Ambert. It is said that all the Ambert families contributed, literally, to the building of the church, thus demonstrating the faith and the spirit of collaboration of the community! At the Maison de la Fourme d'Ambert you will be able to understand all the stages of making this blue-veined paste, go back in time thanks to the exhibitions and, of course, taste, test pairings and... complete your pantry.

For lunch, the restaurant Le Gourmand, opposite the station, will offer you its very pretty (and delicious) plates. 

You can continue in a natural atmosphere with a stroll around the Val Dore leisure center, or why not, on the water, in a pedal boat! Then, head to Mus’Énergie for a discovery of emblematic know-how of braiding and rosaries. It is also an opportunity to better understand the fundamental principles of electricity generation through experiments.

In the footsteps of the Ambert papermakers

Head to the Image Manufacture for a printing workshop. You will be able to test different printing techniques – screen printing, engraving or other processes – and leave with your own work.
Then, a short detour via  Kim En Joong Passage. It exhibits the works of this internationally renowned painter of Korean origin, known in particular for his magnificent stained glass windows.  
Lunch at the “trendy contemporary bistro” M & Caffée Noisette should seduce you, the Michelin guide says so and describes its cuisine as “current and tasty”. 
In the afternoon, head to the Richard de Bas paper mill, certified as a Living Heritage Company, to delve into the heart of rag paper manufacturing. Don't miss the visit and workshops offered.
Start your immersion with a discovery of the secrets of paper pulp manufacturing, where you will be introduced to the traditional methods that have made the mill famous. Thanks to the workshops, you will also have the opportunity to try your hand at creating your own sheet, whether you are young or old. It's a perfect opportunity to learn and have fun, dipping your hands into the vat of paper pulp and following the steps that transform simple materials into a unique sheet of paper.

Enjoy total immersion in nature around Ambert

From Ambert, you can observe,es Hautes-Chaumes, a natural site classified Natura 2000. It is a natural area of ​​ecological, fauna and flora interest. 
Imagine yourself walking on the vast Hautes-Chaumes du Forez, where the wind blows freely like in the distant steppes of Mongolia. 
Up there, you can follow in the footsteps of the peddlers of Jasseries de Valcivières, on the trail of the same name. A historic and picturesque route which will take you through the high altitude moors of Hautes-Chaumes.

Take the time for an original discovery aboard the velorail d'Ambert. The panoramic tourist train departing from Ambert meanders peacefully along the La Dore river. The bridges and viaducts, true works of art of civil engineering, blend into a green and sometimes rugged setting, testifying to the adaptation of the railway to the complex topography of the region.

Continue your exploration in the Ance Valley, the landscapes and nature are very close by. Because here, the quality of the river water is of great ecological interest, highly coveted by fishermen and by remarkable animals such as the white-footed crayfish or the pearl mussel. Finally, Montpeloux volcano is one of a kind. Visit, from the bottom of its crater, an atypical geological formation of basalt columns. Thus, your holidays in the heart of Livradois-Forez will make you throb with happiness.

Family activities to share!

Why not try the treetop course and enjoy the giant zip line who awaits you in the heights, in Prabouré?
This ski resort transforms into an outdoor resort for the summer period. It offers a wide choice of activities that will appeal to young and old alike: Hiking, nets suspended in the trees, barefoot trails, mountain karts, downhill scooters and orienteering.
For a digestive and informative walk, discover Arlanc the Garden for the Earth. Indeed, on this giant planisphere of more than 6 hectares, unique in Europe, discover a constantly enriched collection of 2000 varieties of plants returned to their continent of origin.

The World Festival of Ambert, voted best mid-sized festival in France

The World Festival d'Ambert stood out in the French festival landscape by winning the prize for best intermediate festival, which honors festivals with a daily capacity of between 5.000 and 15.000 people. The Ambert World Festival has been recognized for its eclectic and quality programming, its organization entirely managed by associations, as well as for its commitment to sustainability and its anchoring in a rural context.

After breaking attendance records in 2023, the festival continues to attract a large audience thanks to its family atmosphere.
The musical programming, as rich and varied as ever, includes genres ranging from reggae to electro, including pop rock and rap. In addition to music, visitors can enjoy traditional dances from around the world!
For 2024 and the 36th edition, the organizers have planned several new features. On the catering side, a new culinary offering will be presented by Toques d’Auvergne and starred chefs, mixing local flavors with influences from musical programming.
In addition, the festival sets up shuttles from Clermont-Ferrand and Saint-Étienne, as well as on-demand transport for neighboring towns. 

Be careful, places sell out quickly, so don't have a second to waste, reserve yours today!

Moments to enjoy to fully enjoy the region

Off the beaten track

In Arlanc, the lace museum plunges you into the world of lacemaking. This Museum of France presents creations made with bobbins and needles as well as contemporary creations during a guided tour. 

The natural spaces around Ambert