The Allier is the northernmost department of Auvergne. It is a gentle land of undulating hills and valleys, thick with forests and streams and threaded by several of France’s great rivers, the Loire, the Cher and the Allier itself. It is famous for the purity of its air and water, with several spa towns, like Néris-les-Bains and Châteauneuf-les-Bains, where both can be enjoyed. This is the old region of the Bourbonnais, a fertile landscape of rich pastures, favoured by the Bourbon kings, who once ruled much of Europe. Today it is a green and pleasant land to escape to. The Foret de Troncais is particularly worth exploring, a huge hardwood forest of great oak and beech trees, a haven for wild life, with deer, wild boar, hares and many birds. There are signposted footpaths, pools to bathe in, and cosy country inns for romantic retreats. To the south are the gorges of the Sioule river, perfect for canoeing and sports fishing, and renowned for delicious trout.

<< Go Back