Attractions and Places To See around Salettes - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Salettes, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, offer a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites. The area features a unique waterfall, a deep crater lake, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore a 12th-century Romanesque church and other natural monuments.
Best attractions and places to see around Salettes
- The most popular attractions is Beaume Waterfall, a waterfall that features an impressive 27-meter drop. This unique waterfall is formed by the Ourzie river eroding basalt.
- Another must-see spot is Lac d’Issarlès, a mountain lake. This crater lake is 138 meters deep and offers a beach for swimming during summer months.
- Visitors also love View from the cross, a viewpoint at 970 meters. This location provides a place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Salettes is known for natural monuments, historical churches, and scenic viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore.
- The attractions around Salettes are appreciated by the komoot community, with 87 upvotes and 23 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lac d’Issarlès
Highlight • Lake
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View from the cross
Highlight • Other
There is a bench and when the sun shines, the wide base of the wall at the crossroads heats up. You can relax wonderfully there.
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Beaume Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Trees that are rare for the region, such as maritime pines and the almost extinct land elm, grow in the surrounding forest.
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Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary
Highlight • Other
(Wikipedia)
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Bonnefont Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
The spring water is very iron-rich and the iron deposits it contains are said to be slightly radioactive - it was previously said to have healing powers. The high carbonate content can be recognized by small, rising bubbles.
Source: rivernet.org/loire/loireamont/bonnefont/lasource.htm
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Tips from the Community
Each of these crosses, which the hiker often encounters in the fields or, as here, at the top of the mountain, is a symbol of remembrance of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. "With us on earth there is His memory, but in the Kingdom of Heaven is His presence: This presence is the joy of those who have already attained salvation. The memory is our consolation, as we are still wanderers, journeying toward our homeland." (Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, c. 1090–1153)
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The Beaume waterfall is a unique place! This 27 meter high waterfall is the result of erosion: the waters of the Ourzie river cut into the basalt of the plateau and spring from the top of the cliff to then give rise to the Beaume, a tributary of the Loire.
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Very nicely located grotto, you can also go swimming below.
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Saints Anne and Joachim are considered the parents of the Virgin Mary, whose birth is the patron saint of this church in Saint-Martin-De-Fugères. This would make them the grandparents of Jesus, but they are not mentioned at all in the biblical writings of the New Testament. The feast of the Nativity of Mary is celebrated on September 8th in many Christian denominations (Catholic, Anglican, Orthodox and Armenian).
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Stroll around the lake on Sunday July 23, 2023. Very pleasant because it is largely shaded. Provide credit card (no possibility to pay in cash) for paid parking from 01/06 to 30/09, package 3€. Lots of people on the beaches and around.
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Crater lake, 1,000 meters above sea level with a very pleasant beach for swimming. Very calm. Good food options around and public restrooms.
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Church of the Nativity of the Holy Virgin, Romanesque church built in the 12th century, remodeled in the 15th and 16th centuries and restored in 1844. (Wikipedia)
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A crossroads marks this beautiful viewpoint. The height is 970 m. There is a bench and when the sun shines, the wide base of the wall at the crossroads heats up. You can relax wonderfully there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Salettes?
Salettes, in Haute-Loire, offers several impressive natural sights. You can visit the unique Beaume Waterfall, a 27-meter high cascade formed by the Ourzie river eroding basalt. Another highlight is Lac d’Issarlès, a deep crater lake at 1,000 meters above sea level, perfect for swimming in summer and surrounded by hiking trails.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit in Salettes?
Yes, the area around Salettes features historical sites. The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is a Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, with later remodels. Additionally, the nearby Château d'Arlempdes, a historic castle, is a notable landmark often included in local hiking routes.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Salettes?
Absolutely! Lac d’Issarlès is a great family-friendly destination, offering a monitored beach for swimming during July and August. The surrounding area also has many marked hiking trails suitable for various ages, and the natural beauty provides a wonderful setting for outdoor family time.
What outdoor activities are popular around Salettes?
The region around Salettes is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, cycling, and running. You can find numerous routes for these sports, such as those around Lac d’Issarlès or trails leading to the Château d'Arlempdes. The hiking guide and cycling guide provide detailed routes.
When is the best time to visit Salettes for outdoor activities?
The summer months, particularly July and August, are excellent for visiting Salettes, especially if you plan to swim at Lac d’Issarlès when the beach is monitored. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather for hiking and cycling, with beautiful scenery as the seasons change.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Salettes?
For breathtaking views, head to the View from the cross, located at 970 meters. This spot offers a tranquil place to relax and enjoy the expansive scenery of the Haute-Loire region. Many hiking trails in the area also lead to picturesque vistas.
Are there any unique natural phenomena to discover near Salettes?
Yes, beyond the impressive Beaume Waterfall, you can discover the Bonnefont Spring. This mineral water source, once used until 1914, is known for its iron-rich water and slight radioactivity, with high carbonate content visible through small rising bubbles. It's a fascinating natural curiosity.
Can I go cycling or running near Salettes?
Absolutely! Salettes and its surroundings offer various routes for both cycling and running. For runners, the Tour of Lac d'Issarlès is a popular easy option. Cyclists can explore more challenging routes like the Château d'Arlempdes – Beaufort Castle ruins loop. Check the dedicated cycling and running guides for more options.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Salettes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural landscapes, especially the unique Beaume Waterfall and the serene Lac d’Issarlès. The peaceful atmosphere, opportunities for hiking, and the scenic viewpoints like the View from the cross are also highly rated by the komoot community.
Are there any activities suitable for winter around Salettes?
While specific winter activities in Salettes itself are not detailed, the broader Haute-Loire region, where Salettes is located, includes areas like the Nordic area of Chavade, which is known for winter sports. Depending on snow conditions, some trails might be suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
What other towns or villages are worth visiting near Salettes?
Near Salettes, the village of Arlempdes is notable for its historic castle, Château d'Arlempdes, which is often a destination for local hiking routes. The town of Le Lac-d'Issarlès, situated by the lake, also offers amenities and serves as a starting point for many outdoor activities.
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