Ambert is a medieval town that has made a significant contribution to the history of papermaking in France. From the Middle Ages onwards, Ambert established itself as an important centre of papermaking, influencing the production methods that defined this era.
Ambert town hall round 1Ambert, Fourme and Forez
Explore the historic heritaged'Ambert
A stroll through the medieval quarter, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, will take you back to a flourishing period when paper mills lined the river Durolle, turning rags into precious sheets.
Over the centuries, thepaper industry has left an indelible mark on the town, shaping its identity and economy. Today, Ambert celebrates this heritage through its museums and cultural centres, such as the Moulin Richard de Bas and the Moulin de Nouara.
Ambert Eglise Saint-Jean 2
Moulin Richard de Bas - General view
Ambert town hall round 1One dayin Ambert
Manufacture d'Images 4 Ambert
Manufacture d'Images 6 Ambert
Moulin Richard de Bas Ambert 4
Moulin Richard de Bas Ambert 17
Moulin Richard de Bas Ambert 18You can try out different printing techniques – screen printing, engraving or other processes – and leave with your own work.
It exhibits the works of this internationally renowned painter of Korean origin, known in particular for his magnificent stained glass windows.
3A gourmet lunch
Lunch at the “trendy contemporary bistro” M & Caffée Noisette is sure to please, as the Michelin guide describes its cuisine as “contemporary and tasty”.
4In the afternoon, off to the Richard de Bas paper mill
The Living Heritage Company label takes you right to the heart of the paper-making process. Discover the secrets of papermaking, and learn about the traditional methods for which the mill is renowned. You’ll also have the chance to try your hand at creating your own sheet of paper, whether you’re young or old. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn and have fun, as you dip your hands in the pulp vat and follow the steps that transform simple materials into a unique sheet of paper.
Family activitiesto share!
Why not try out the tree course and take advantage of the giant zip line waiting for you in the heights at Prabouré?
This ski resort is transformed into a nature resort for the summer period. It offers a wide range of activities that will appeal to young and old alike (from the age of 3): Rando-ferrata, nets suspended in the trees, barefoot trail, moutain Kart, downhill scooters and orienteering.
For a digestive and instructive stroll, discover the Garden for the Earth in Arlanc. On this giant6-hectareplanisphere, the only one of its kind in Europe, you can discover an ever-expanding collection of 2,000 plant varieties recreated on their original continents.
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Cover photo Parc Dactivites De Praboure @prod03
Prabouré ALF 2Enjoy total immersion in naturearound Ambert
From Ambert, you can observe the Hautes-Chaumes, a natural site classified Natura 2000. This is a natural area of ecological, fauna and flora interest. Imagine walking on the vast Hautes-Chaumes du Forez, where the wind blows as freely as in the remote steppes of Mongolia. Up there, you can follow in the footsteps of the pedlars of the Jasseries de Valcivières, on the trail of the same name. This historic and picturesque route takes you through the high moors of the Hautes-Chaumes.
Continue your exploration in the Vallée de l’Ance, where the countryside and nature are close at hand. Here, the quality of the river water is of great ecological interest, much coveted by fishermen and remarkable animals such as the white-footed crayfish and the pearl mussel. Finally, the Montpeloux volcano is one of a kind. From the bottom of its crater, visit an atypical geological formation of basaltic organs. Your holiday in the heart of the Livradois-Forez region is sure to make your heart beat faster.
Take time for an original discovery aboard the Ambert velorail. The panoramic tourist train from Ambert winds its way peacefully along the River Dore. The bridges and viaducts, veritable works of civil engineering, blend into the green and sometimes rugged scenery, testifying to the railway’s adaptation to the region’s complex topography.
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Pnr Livradois Forez Jda4842 Photo J.damase
Livradois.v 887a2281Must-do activitiesin Ambert
The Ambert World Festival,voted best mid-sized festival in France
World Festival Ambert 2021 Maxime G 4The World Festival d’Ambert stood out in the French festival scene by winning the Best Intermediate Festival award, which honours festivals with a daily capacity of between 5,000 and 15,000 people. The World Festival d’Ambert was recognised for its eclectic, high-quality programme, its organisation run entirely by associations, its commitment to sustainability and its rural roots. After breaking attendance records in 2023, the festival continues to attract large audiences thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere.
What you need to know
For 2024 and the 36th edition, the organisers have a number of new features in store. On the catering side, a new culinary offering will be presented by Toques d’Auvergne and Michelin-starred chefs, blending local flavours with influences from the musical programme. In addition, the festival will be running shuttle buses from Clermont-Ferrand and Saint-Étienne, as well as transport on demand for neighbouring towns.
