Published 4 / 07 / 2024 Reading time: 4 min
It's the return of sunny days, we take the opportunity to get some fresh air, take a walk and access the most beautiful viewpoints... We like to get up high and admire the surrounding landscapes. The Roannais has a multitude of viewpoints, each more beautiful than the last! Without further ado, we reveal some of them to you.
1. The Saint-Maurice tower, one of the 360° viewpoints
The famous village of Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice, full of cultural and heritage wealth… We love walking and strolling in this Village of Character. During your visit, don't miss the Saint-Maurice tower!
If you are a fan of 360° views, then you need to climb the 85 steps that will take you to the top of the tower. From its 17 meters height, the old keep dominates the village and offers a magnificent view of the waters of the dam.
2. Le Pêt d’Âne, the essential
You probably already know it, but we had to put it on the list. Whether you are from Roanne or passing through, this site is worth discovering and rediscovering.
Donkey's Fart offers a unique view of the largest meander of the Loire. On a clear day, you can even see the Lyonnais mountains and the Forez plain. Did you know that the Pêt d’Âne site recently received 2 stars in the Michelin green guide? Don't miss it!
3. The Rocher de Rochefort in Arcon, in the middle of nature
Less known than the others, but just as pleasant, the Rocher de Rochefort (also called the Arcon belvedere) located in the mounts of the Madeleine, offers a bird's eye view of the wooded mountains.
Take your time, sit on the bench and enjoy a relaxing moment, far from the crowds and the hustle and bustle. Take advantage of this to extend your nature break by walking around the Great Murcins, the arboretum and the forest are less than 10 kilometers away.
Certain landscapes provide the soul with a strange amalgamation of various sensations where time often seems to have stood still.
Cherif Kebbas
4. The Madonna, a peaceful place
A former fortified position from the Celtic era, this remarkable site occupies the eastern end of the Châtelard plateau, on the heights of the commune ofAmbierle. La Madone overlooks the village and offers a splendid panorama of the Roanne plain. Located about ten minutes on foot from the village, you can also discover the Prioral complex and its village.
5. The Plateau de la Verrerie in Saint-Rirand, one of the highest viewpoints
We gain a little height, at 1030 meters above sea level, in a rather wild atmosphere…
Discover the Glassware plateau, Natura 2000 site, and its mountain moors. Observe this remarkable flora and fauna around you. Go to the orientation table, from here you will have a breathtaking view of the Roanne plain, the Alps and the Puys chain. Then, take the path which leads you through the mountain moors to reach the heart of the bog.
Do you want more ? Obviously, this list is not exhaustive. Climb to the top of the tower Urfé Castle, go to the belvedere of Saint-Alban-les-Eaux Or that of Commelle-Vernay, climb to the top of the dungeon tower in the Village of Character of Crozet…You have plenty to do!
