Valcivières between the Hautes-Chaumes and Jasserien

Valcivières is a destination for travelers interested in the high-altitude landscapes of the Hautes-Chaumes, outdoor activities and rural history. A circular trail, seasonal opportunities at the Col des Supeyres and a restored jasserie offer different themes to explore during your stay. In summer, these include walks across the heathland and access to the Hautes-Chaumes on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also options. When planning your trip, the season can help determine which of these aspects to focus on.

A circular trail connected with the jasseries

“Le colporteur des Jasseries” is a 9.5-kilometer circular trail that crosses the Hautes-Chaumes from one jasserie to another. Its length and circular route offer a concrete reference point for planning your hike. At the same time, the connection between the jasseries shapes the character of the route: it passes through a landscape whose pastoral history is also reflected in the meaning of the word jasserie. If you would like to build your stay around a particular hike, you can make this trail a focus of your trip. This gives you the choice between a clearly defined circular route and the seasonal opportunities at the Col des Supeyres as different aspects of your visit.

Summer and winter in the highlands

The Col des Supeyres lies at an altitude of 1,366 meters. In summer, it provides access to the Hautes-Chaumes on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing provide access to the same high-altitude landscape. The season therefore also changes how you get around: summer options differ considerably from winter activities. This seasonal contrast can help you tailor your stay to your interests, without combining the different options into a single outing.

Heathland and protected natural area

The Hautes-Chaumes consist of high-altitude grasslands and heathland. The landscape associated with Valcivières is protected as a Natura 2000 site. In summer, the extensive heathland at higher elevations is used for walks. Grasslands and heath are two components of this landscape; its protected status adds an ecological dimension. If you are interested in nature and landscape types, this offers a different focus from route planning or the history of the jasseries.

Jasseries and pastoral history

The term “jasserie” also refers to pastoral history. Originally, the word referred to summer pastures where herds were driven during the warmer months; later, it came to refer to the barn there. This change in meaning connects seasonal pastures with the buildings associated with this agricultural history. An activity titled “Pastoralisme et Hautes-Chaumes” includes a visit to an authentic jasserie restored by the Conservatoire d’espaces naturels d’Auvergne. The activity follows paved paths that bear witness to rural life in the past. This gives you another way to explore the high-altitude landscape through its built heritage and agricultural connections.

Pastoral farming is not only a historical subject: young farmers in Valcivières continue this practice in summer, producing high-quality meat and cheese. The history of the jasseries thus exists alongside an ongoing agricultural tradition. This offers an additional perspective on the landscape during your stay: its grasslands and pastures are both part of the natural environment described here and a setting for local agriculture.

Discover other destinations: Cournon-D'auvergne, Le Monestier, Saint-Clément-De-Régnat, Saint-Jean-D'heurs, Aydat, Saint-Germain-l'Herm, Saint-Bonnet-Lès-Allier, Ardes

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