FRENCH TAIGA
AND STEPPES

Day 1: Noirétable / Noirétable - 63 km

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We'll start the route north in the direction of the Black Woods, these remote thick forests which conceal secrets and mysteries of all kinds. Whatever path we take in the undergrowth, we'll have the impression of getting lost. Fortunately, our application will show us the way toward the Durolle valley. This tributary of the Allier has dug profound gorges, and the electric assistance of our mountain bikes will be very welcomed! The region is renowned for its cutlery and many manufacturing workshops. The famous "Thiers" cutlery is sold worldwide. We'll stop to discover this century-old craft.

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Day 2:  Noirétable  / Brugeron  - 54 km

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We'll head south for this day, which promises to be epic along the crests of the Forez mountains. We'll enjoy the view of the Plaine du Forez and the Lyonnais mountains in the distance. As we gain altitude, the forest landscapes we cross will give way to the steppe. Undoubtedly, we'll be entering the territory of Hautes-Chaumes, in the heart of Haut-Forez. Then, through successive paths, we'll reach Pierre-Sur-Haute, the highest point of the massif at 1634 m. In the evening, we'll stop in Brugeron. Remember to take your bathing suit; a surprise may be waiting for you! ​

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Day 3: Brugeron  / Noirétable - 49 km

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It is already the last day of driving, and on Day 3, the Auvergne will open its doors to us and lets us admire its Chaîne des Puys in the distance. The paths follow one another, sometimes made of dirt, sometimes of stones until they reach a buron where we'll have lunch. Typical of the region, this stone building covered with slate was once used to make cheese. Today, we will taste the famous patia, this potato dish cooked for hours in cream (not to be compared to the gratin dauphinois!) or the cabbage sausage.

In the afternoon, the adventure continues. We'll enjoy our mountain bikes and take advantage of this simple and generous nature until our return to Noirétable.

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