Discover Champclause

Lac Bleu brings together natural and industrial history: its colour comes from the lauzes and volcanic stones covering the lakebed. The lake is located on the site of the former Lauzier quarry at Les Balayes, which was in use for almost three and a half centuries. Access to Lac Bleu is free; dogs must be kept on a leash. As visitor arrangements may change, check the latest information before your visit.

Hiking around Lac Bleu

The PR475 Autour du lac Bleu is an easy 8 km circular hike with 158 metres of elevation gain. The stated duration is 2 hours and 9 minutes. The start and finish are at Les Balayes; the route is associated with the municipalities of Champclause and Araules. The recommended starting point for the PR475 is the Lac Bleu car park at Les Balayes. Les Balayes is 2 km east of Boussoulet on the D15.

Another option is the PR478 Les Bastiers, listed as a 7 km route from Champclause, taking 2 hours and with 209 metres of elevation gain. Compared with the PR475, it is one kilometre shorter but has 51 metres more elevation gain; the stated times—two hours and 2:09—are close. These figures can help you weigh up the route length and time required when planning your hike.

Winter sports in the Meygal area

The Meygal Nordic area offers a total of 44 km of trails at an altitude of 1,200 to 1,450 metres. Marked and regularly groomed trails are available for classic cross-country skiing, skating, and snowshoeing. Boussoulet is an access point for visitors with a valid ski pass and their own equipment. Availability depends on winter snow conditions; access rules may also vary by season. Check the latest information before planning an outing.

Boussoulet church and local culture

Boussoulet church was established in a former farmhouse between 1836 and 1846. Notable features include a monumental phonolite altar and a baptismal font carved from a stone from the Meygal. The stained-glass windows bear the signature of Jean-François Six. Its architecture, materials, and artistic design offer several ways to appreciate this cultural stop.

The Parc des Miniatures is also linked to the history of Lac Bleu: it was established partly in memory of Antonin Royer, described as the last Lauzeron at Lac Bleu. Those interested in medicinal plants can join guided foraging trips and botanical outings at La Ferme de la Reine des Près. The farm also offers tastings of snacks made with wild plants.

Fishing and getting around

Moulin des Merles has two purpose-built fishing ponds: one is home to brown trout and brook trout, and the other to rainbow trout. Fish are sold by weight. Fishing with a float, spinning, and fly fishing are available; beginners can get advice. Fishing equipment can be rented, and bait can be bought on site. No fishing licence is required there. As operating conditions may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before visiting.

The RD15 runs through Champclause, connecting Le Puy-en-Velay with Valence, and carries heavy traffic. This road connection and the range of hiking and winter activities provide practical information to help you plan your stay.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Pierre-du-Champ, Chavaniac-Lafayette, Roche-En-Régnier, Saint-Just-Près-Brioude, Saint-Bonnet-Le-Froid, Chilhac, Lavaudieu, Saint-Julien-Des-Chazes.

Back to the main travel overview: Haute-Loire.