Attractions and Places To See around Empurany - Top 20

Empurany itself features a medieval fort with a square tower and a chapel, now housing exhibitions on local history and sacred art. Nearby, you can visit the 11th-century Saint-Michel Church and the historic Viaduc du Banchet. Further afield, the Old Lamastre train station is a significant historical site, serving as the arrival point for the "Le Mastrou" steam train. The village of Colombier-le-Vieux is home to the 13th-century Château de Belle Comble and the 16th-century fortified house of Ruissas, both listed as Historic Monuments, along with the King's Bridge crossing the Doux river.

Yes, the region offers several natural beauties. You can find the Petite cascade d'Empurany on the road to Arlebosc. For panoramic views, head to the Massif de la Croix d'Argent, the Col du Faux (1021 m), or the Col du Perrier, which offer vistas of Mont Mézenc and Mont Gerbier de Jonc. Mont Chiniac also provides magnificent views of the Cévennes and distant Alps. The Gorges du Doux can be explored via the historic Chemin de fer du Vivarais or Vélorail.

The area is excellent for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. You can explore numerous scenic routes, including those around Arlebosc. For cycling, consider routes like the "Trail along the Sumène – La Dolce Via loop from Lamastre" or the "Buisson Pass – Old Lamastre train station loop from Arlebosc." Mountain biking options include the "Old Lamastre train station – Col de Montreynaud (757 m) loop from Lamastre." You can find more details on these and other routes on the cycling, gravel biking, and MTB trails guides.

Absolutely. The Old Lamastre train station offers a journey on the historic "Le Mastrou" steam train through the Gorges du Doux, which is a popular family experience. The Trail along the Sumène is also noted as family-friendly for cycling. Additionally, the Vélorail des Gorges du Doux provides an interactive way to explore the gorges. For a unique experience, visit the Village miniature au col du buisson near Nozières, or the Safari de Peaugres for wildlife enthusiasts.

Beyond the exhibitions in Empurany's Medieval Tower, you can explore the Château-Musée de Tournon, a castle transformed into a museum. Other cultural highlights include the Musée des papeteries Canson et Montgolfier in Davézieux, the Musée de l'alambic in Saint Désirat, and the extraordinary Palais idéal du facteur Cheval in Hauterives. For a unique experience, visit the Musée vivant de la laine Ardelaine in Saint Pierreville or the Chateau Musee de Desaignes.

The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails around Arlebosc, and a popular route goes from Lalouvesc to Arlebosc via the Col du Buisson. While specific hiking trails are not detailed in the provided data, the general area is well-suited for walking and exploring the natural landscapes. For more structured routes, check the MTB Trails around Empurany guide, as many mountain bike trails can also be enjoyed on foot.

The Buisson Pass is a notable mountain pass, particularly popular for cycling, with an average gradient of 2.9% over 13 km from Saint Félicien. It's a highlight during the Ardéchoise cycling event. Near the pass, you can find a miniature village, which also offers a small snack bar.

Yes, the Trail along the Sumène is a path that runs along the Sumène river, offering a mix of shaded and sunny sections. It's highly recommended for cycling, providing beautiful views of nature. You can find cycling routes that incorporate this trail, such as the "Trail along the Sumène – La Dolce Via loop from Lamastre" or the "Trail along the Sumène – Nonières Tunnel loop from Lamastre" in the Cycling around Empurany guide.

For a unique culinary experience, visit the Ferme aux escargots (snail farm) in Saint Félicien. Chocolate enthusiasts should not miss the Chocolaterie Valrhôna in Tain l'Hermitage. You can also explore beautiful gardens like Jardin La Terre Pimprenelle. For a different kind of attraction, there's a Parc éolien (wind farm) between Saint Agrève and Désaignes offering free visits.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The journey on the historic "Le Mastrou" train from the Old Lamastre train station through the Gorges du Doux is a highlight. The scenic cycling routes, like the Trail along the Sumène, are praised for their natural setting. The region's appeal is reflected in the 48 photos and 107 upvotes from the komoot community.

Yes, for water activities, swimming is possible at Plan d'eau Retourtour in Lamastre and Base Aquatique Eyrium. Canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed with Eyrieuxsport, offering opportunities to explore the local rivers.

You can discover local produce and crafts at the markets in Lamastre, which are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays. These markets are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and find regional specialties.