Discover Charroux
Accommodation in Charroux
Charroux is the only village in the Allier department to be included among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France.” Medieval buildings, a clock collection, local mustard production, and views across the landscape give visitors a range of things to discover during their stay.
Medieval landmarks and the history of clocks
The Porte d’Orient survives as a town gate dating from the 13th to 14th centuries. The Cour des Dames is centrally located in Charroux and has retained the peaceful character of a medieval retreat. The town gate and the courtyard offer different points of interest: one focuses on a surviving structure, the other on a quiet place in the centre.
The Musée de Charroux et de son canton occupies 14 rooms in two fortified buildings. The Maison des horloges displays around 40 working clocks from five centuries, including mechanical clocks from public buildings and Comtoise clocks. The two institutions offer different cultural experiences: the Musée is described through its rooms and buildings, while the Maison is distinguished by its clocks and their historical range. The town gate dates from the 13th to 14th centuries, while the clock collection spans five centuries.
Explore the village and go on a treasure hunt
The guided tour through the centre lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes, covers 2 km, and includes around ten stops. The duration gives you a time frame; the distance and number of stops also indicate the scope of the tour. Check the current dates if you plan to join the tour.
“Les Pierres du Temps” is an outdoor escape-game treasure hunt in the heart of Charroux. It offers a playful outdoor activity alongside the guided village tour. Before your visit, check whether the treasure hunt is available at that time.
Mustard-making tradition and a November event
Charroux mustard is made with mustard seeds, vinegar, and white wine from Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule; the wine comes from the local “Tressallier” grape variety. The Moutarderie de Charroux is an artisan mustard factory in Charroux that is open to visitors free of charge. Check the latest visitor information before your visit.
The FĂŞte de la Soupe has been held on the first Saturday of every November since 2007. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the programme for the relevant year. The recurring festival date and the specific programme details are two separate aspects of your planning.
Landscape and getting around
From the Belvédère in Charroux, views extend across the Bourbonnais Plain to the volcanoes of the Auvergne. This landscape viewpoint complements the historic buildings with sweeping views beyond the village.
Charroux is entirely pedestrianised; there is a car park at the entrance to the village. These details are useful landmarks when planning your journey. Check the current parking rules in advance.
Discover more destinations
Andelaroche, Bellerive-Sur-Allier, Yzeure, Saint-Plaisir, Lavoine, Treteau, Le Vernet, Meillard
For the broader travel overview: Allier.
