Cutlery-making in Thiers took root in the Durolle valley seven centuries ago. Cutlers used the water power of this river to drive spinning wheels, a type of water-powered mill specifically used to sharpen knife blades. Today, the Vallée des Rouets, home to the last remaining spinning wheel, is open to visitors, offering a glimpse into this industrial history. The Musée de la Coutellerie completes the experience, presenting a vast collection of knives and tracing the development of this expertise.
Destination Grand R Vtt Livradois Forez Nicolas Joly Velo Vert Magazine 57 1Thiers, medieval town and cutlery maker
Thiers, international capitalcutlery
The old centre of Thiers, with its medieval houses and sloping streets, has a unique atmosphere. The covered passageways, known as ” pedde “, add to its charm. Take a stroll and you’ll discover historic cutlery shops and a variety of arts and crafts. This protected area of Thiers reflects its rich industrial and artistic past.
Knife-making in Thiers is an experience not to be missed. You can immerse yourself in this craft by taking part in workshops where you can assemble, polish and even engrave your name on the blade of a knife. It’s a family activity that allows you to understand and appreciate the finesse of knife-making.
David 4 cutlery
887a5862
Je Decouvre Thiers Guy ChristianThings to doaround Thiers
Looking for history and culture?
The area around Thiers offers you two options for visits. Château de Vollore, in Vollore-ville known in Auvergne history since the 6ᵉ century, has been owned by the same family for over two centuries. The living residence of the descendants in Auvergne of General La Fayette, it is also a remarkable site and panorama.
In Sermentizon, Château d’Aulteribe has the reputation of being one of the best furnished residences in France. It preserves objects and works of art of the highest quality, and features furniture stamped by the finest Parisian workshops of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Discover the origins and history of La Maison de l’Aventure Industrielle, located in theUsine du May factory. This Interpretation Centre, set in a historic factory, is at the heart of the Vallée des Usines, just a few kilometres away. Nearby, you can also explore the Contemporary Art Centre known as “ le Creux de l’Enfer “.
Looking for more nature?
For keen hikers, the Haute Forêt des Bois Noirs offers an ideal setting. This mountain range, a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, promises some magnificent scenery. For the more experienced, the Grün de Chignore, starting from Vollore-Ville, offers a magnificent (and well-deserved) 360° view over the region. To reach the summit, allow 5 hours 30 minutes for 15.8 km and 664 m of ascent.
Near Celles-sur-Durlle, still in the Bois Noirs, the Puy de Montoncel hike takes 4 hours 30 minutes over 12 km and takes you through woodland to reach the highest point (1,287 m) in the Bois Noirs.
For a more tranquil experience, the Bois Noirs spa offers an aqua-sensory area with sauna, hammam and massages. Before relaxing, enjoy a herbal tea while admiring the view over Lac des Prades.
Château de Vollore - Salon 1
Château d'Aulteribe Interiors 3
Pnr Livradois Forez Jda3889 Photo J.damase
Pnr Livradois Forez Jda3837 Photo J.damase
Spa 2160Visits and activitiesin the town of Thiers
And now..,get in the water!
Take advantage of the three ” Pavillon Bleu ” bathing sites around Thiers. Take a dip with family and friends at the Prades lake in Saint-Rémy-sur-Durolle. It has been awarded the “green resort” label, and offers two equipped beaches and a fun pool. Supervised in summer, the beach also offers a range of activities: tennis, electric mountain bikes, hiking, fishing and more. One area is specially adapted for the disabled, with a wheelchair for launching into the water.
887a5714 2
Lac Daubusson Children 2013 K Schneider X 10Take a dip with the family or friends at the Prades lake in Saint-Rémy-sur-Durolle. It has been awarded the “green resort” label, and offers two equipped beaches and a fun pool. Supervised in summer, the beach also offers a variety of activities: tennis, electric mountain bikes, hiking, fishing and more. One area is specially adapted for the disabled, with a wheelchair for launching into the water.
Situated 7 km from the town of Coutelière, it combines a leisure centre with the Natura 2000 site, open all year round. Perfect for a day out or a nature break, it offers swimming, fishing, a swimming pool, picnic areas, children’s games, an orienteering course and summer entertainment. A snack bar is also available in summer.
Lac d’Aubusson d’Auvergne is the largest leisure park in the Livradois-Forez region, covering over 100 hectares of unspoilt countryside. Enjoy a host of activities: supervised swimming, children’s play areas, petanque, football, handball, table tennis, basketball, orienteering, hiking and fishing. You’ll also find canoes, pedalos and gyropods for hire, as well as a range of activities and services.
