Saint-Sauves-D'auvergne: Culture, History and Hiking

Location and town profile

Saint-Sauves-D'auvergne lies in the upper Dordogne Valley and within the Parc naturel régional des volcans d’Auvergne. Local activities include hiking, climbing, mountain biking, fishing and winter sports. Together with its historic buildings and cultural venues, these activities give the town a profile that brings outdoor pursuits and local history side by side. When planning your trip, it is worth considering these interests separately: a hiking or mountain-biking route offers specific route details, while the buildings and cultural attractions provide their own points of interest during your stay.

Architecture and culture

The Renaissance Portique is protected as a Monument historique; it was listed on 25 October 1962. The village church dates from the 11th and 12th centuries. Its 15th-century keystones display the coats of arms of the lords of Cros. The two buildings offer different historical points of reference: the Portique represents the Renaissance and its protection history, while the church reflects its early construction and the later coats of arms.

The former church of Saint-Sauves-D'auvergne is also protected as a Monument historique. Near the Foirail, the former washhouse has retained its distinctive features. The Maison Garenne is dedicated to contemporary design and welcomes artists. The commune is also home to the Centre National et International de Musiques et d’Accordéon. The Fête de la St-Jean is one of the recurring local festivals. Thus, historic buildings stand alongside a venue for contemporary design and a musical institution.

Hiking and cycling

The De la Dordogne aux volcans hiking loop is rated difficult, is 17.0 kilometres long and is listed as taking five hours. It follows the Dordogne towards La Bourboule and includes a viewpoint above a dam. The loop, distance and estimated time give you concrete indications of the scale of this hike; the viewpoint is another described feature of the route.

The La Poucinière mountain-biking loop has a different character: it is rated moderate and is suitable for families. Its route includes long climbs and fast descents on small roads. The difficulty ratings clearly distinguish the two loops: De la Dordogne aux volcans is rated difficult, while La Poucinière is rated moderate. The cycling route also emphasizes the descents and climbs, whereas the hiking route is described in terms of its duration and distance.

Another destination on the La Pierre des Quatre Curés hiking trail is the stone that has stood there for more than 4,000 years. According to legend, in the Middle Ages it marked the boundary between four neighbouring parishes. The age and the legend describe two different aspects: the stone's long existence and a traditional interpretation of its former significance. Parking for the trail is available along the roadside; caution is advised because of traffic. This guidance is particularly useful when planning, as it concerns the use of parking spaces along the road.

Discover more destinations: Enval, La Roche-Noire, Aubière, Giat, Orcival, Medeyrolles, Égliseneuve-Des-Liards, Vollore-Ville

For the broader travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.