Hautes-Chaumes
©Hautes-Chaumes|Benjamin Vallet

Spring weekend in Livradois-Forez heading out into nature

As the cold season slowly draws to a close, it’s time to take some time out for yourself as spring dawns. Need a weekend away this spring in Livradois-Forez? Because soon, the May bank holidays will give you the chance to take a deep breath. To get away from it all. And to recharge your batteries by admiring nature as it awakens. And to finally make some time for you and your other half. In Livradois-Forez, we’ve put together a small selection of experiences for you to enjoy when the mating season arrives. Nature welcomes you on a hike. The season also lends itself to tasting local produce. B&Bs and hotels open for the season, while spas offer relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s up to you to make the most of it!

Walking hand in hand in Livradois-Forez

In spring, the awakening of nature invites you to put on your hiking boots again. The Livradois-Forez region is ideal for both short and long hikes, with its varied terrain that is not so dangerously steep. Whether you’re coming off Sunday lunch with your family or taking advantage of a day off in the middle of the week, hiking offers a chance to relax and recharge your batteries in the midst of nature.

During the mating season, when the birds are building their nests and nature is slowly waking up from its winter slumber, you can take your other half by the hand and lead them along the paths of the Livradois-Forez. There are plenty of romantic walks to be had here. Walking together in the same direction. Give yourself time for a heart-to-heart chat. Treat yourself to this moment, just for the two of you.

What’s more, you don’t have to bring anything with you on this walk. The RELF association is making a point of finalising the signposting of the trails for May. You can find the hiking routes on our hiking portal and our web application, adapted to your abilities. The routes vary in difficulty, and the scenery is always surprising, just like the Livradois-Forez region.

App in your pocket, map downloaded beforehand. All you have to do is enjoy the journey.

Gourmet tasting spring products

The spring season is a time for gourmet discoveries. During your romantic weekend, plan a trip to a market in the Livradois-Forez region. New asparagus, May radishes, spring watercress and rocket, crisp lettuce and plump peas. The arrival of fine weather and longer days means you can look after your body, which needs it so badly after those winter raclettes. Fill up on vitaminsbyenjoying spring nectarines, peaches, plums and strawberries.

As for producers, some are taking advantage of the arrival of spring to open their doors once again. From oil and honey producers to plant distillers, beer brewers and trout farmers, you can find the whole list here, so you can meet them for a weekend.

Treat yourself to the luxury of an intimate spa on a spring weekend in Livradois-Forez

Your spring weekend in the Livradois-Forez region is bound to include half a day at a spa. It’s the perfect way to rediscover the warmth of a cocooning place bathed in light. Feel relaxed in this soft bathrobe. Plunge your feet into a Kneipp bath and feel the revitalising warmth of the water rise up your legs. You can also savour the warmth of the steam room before enjoying a herbal tea gleaned from the fields. A programme to suit all your desires for this romantic stay in Livradois-Forez.

For the more courageous, the Russian banya and its leafy branches await you. Like a simple Finnish sauna, the banya is accessible to 2 to 8 people. At Égliseneuve-des-Liards, this famous Russian sauna is housed in an old bread oven. Just the thing to warm your buns. The invigorating “veniks” or hardwood branches are part of the décor to whip up and invigorate your body. So it goes without saying that a little gentleness is called for if you want to try it out on your other half. And in the Livradois-Forez, because we love your comfort, the owners of guest rooms sometimes have saunas installed for your pleasure. A tailor-made welcome, rest in accommodation that’s not overcrowded, a breakfast of fresh produce and a sauna just a stone’s throw from your bed. A weekend of total relaxation this spring in Livradois-Forez.

Playing tourist on a guided tour that whet the appetite

The arrival of the mating season also signals the resumption of the Livradois-Forez programme of guided tours and guided walks. Blue skies and mild temperatures invite you to relax in the medieval villages and forests of this beautiful regional nature park. The tour guides will tell you all about the secrets of the region. We’ve selected some of the most romantic for you.

  • Nature walk in the heart of the Montpeloux Volcano
  • Ambert, the taste tour
  • Fête de la Nature: on the trail of wild mammals
Garden for the earth Take a romantic stroll in a green setting

In this 6.5 hectare garden, the plant areas are designed in the shape of continents and the lawns symbolise the seas and oceans, with more than 700 species and 2,000 varieties of plants. Take advantage of guided tours on environmental conservation, events focusing on ecosystems and biodiversity, and environmental awareness workshops.