Attractions and Places To See around Écotay-L'Olme - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Écotay-L'Olme include a variety of natural and historical sites. The region features mountain passes, volcanic peaks, and ancient religious buildings. Visitors can explore scenic viewpoints and historical structures that offer insight into the area's heritage. Écotay-L'Olme provides opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Écotay-L'Olme
- The most popular attractions is Col de Baracuchet (1267 m), a mountain pass that is 1267 m high and very…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Saint-Thomas Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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Montsupt Peak and Chapel
Highlight • Volcano
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Col de Baracuchet (1267 m)
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Champdieu Priory
Highlight • Religious Site
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Col de Baracuchet from Montbrison
Highlight (Segment) • Other
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Tips from the Community
On the occasion of the patron saint of this church: The Apostle Thomas, one of the twelve whom Jesus called to his inner circle of disciples, is not frequently mentioned in the biblical writings of the New Testament. The passage that is probably best known to most Christians is the one following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which earned him the less-than-flattering nickname "Doubting Thomas" in popular parlance. The Evangelist John recounts this in the 20th chapter of his Gospel (the "Good News"). The Gospel of John is the translation of the word "Gospel." This theme naturally offered opportunities for dissemination in religious art of many eras, for example in one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings – for those interested see =>> https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Der_ungl%C3%A4ubige_Thomas_(Caravaggio)#/media/Datei:The_Incredulity_of_Saint_Thomas.jpg – The feast day of the Apostle Thomas in the liturgical calendar is celebrated partly on July 3rd and partly on December 21st.
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It was wonderful on my way #berndscamino https://huettemann.eu/de/2024/02/bergauf-bergab-an-die-loire-berndscamino/
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The priory represents a monastic complex built from the 11th century. Rich in sculpted capitals, the church stands out with its half-buried crypt from the 11th century, while the refectory still retains a 15th century fresco representing The Last Supper.
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The peak of Montsupt is one of the many volcanic peaks of the Plaine du Forez and the foothills of the Monts. You can make out the valley of the Curraize to the north, and that of its tributary, the Malval, to the west. Located in the town of Saint-Georges-Haute-Ville, the mountain is close to two km from the town of Margerie.
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Former Benedictine priory founded around the year 1000 and restored in the 1970s. Today it hosts guided tours, exhibitions, concerts, association events and private events.
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A very beautiful pass at altitude very little frequented with beautiful views. Since Montbrison it is quite long with fairly low but regular percentages. Be careful in winter the road is not desalinated (water withdrawal area) and in the forest which makes it a little dangerous. At the top, the summit is flat and you have to drive a little before you find the sign signifying the arrival at the top. There is no view at the top but the atmosphere is very nice. You can easily reach the Col des Supeyres, in the sequence via a small road that climbs gently.
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Very beautiful pass from Montbrison with a plethora of viewpoints and magnificent landscapes. The end is in the forest we feel that we are at altitude with a well deteriorated road and not salty in winter, so beware of ice. The percentages are not impressive but it is quite long.
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very nice point of view with orientation table and table and bench + toilets
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Écotay-L'Olme?
The region offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Col de Baracuchet (1267 m), a peaceful mountain pass with beautiful views. Another option is Montsupt Peak and Chapel, which is a volcanic peak offering panoramic views from its viewpoint.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit in Écotay-L'Olme?
Yes, Écotay-L'Olme is rich in history. Explore Champdieu Priory, a former Benedictine priory founded around the year 1000, featuring an 11th-century crypt and a 15th-century fresco. You can also visit the Saint-Thomas Church, another significant religious and historical site.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Écotay-L'Olme?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails. For example, there are moderate routes like the 'Vieil Écotay – Ecotay l'olme chapel loop from Bard' (6.8 km) or longer options such as the 'Ecotay l'olme chapel loop from Écotay-l'Olme' (12.4 km). You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Écotay-L'Olme guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, Champdieu Priory is noted as a family-friendly historical site. It hosts guided tours and events, making it an engaging visit for all ages.
What is the best time to visit Écotay-L'Olme for outdoor activities?
While the region is beautiful year-round, it's advisable to be cautious during winter. For instance, the road to Col de Baracuchet (1267 m) is not desalinated in winter and can be dangerous due to ice in forested areas. Spring, summer, and autumn generally offer more favorable conditions for exploring.
Can I find scenic viewpoints around Écotay-L'Olme?
Absolutely. Montsupt Peak and Chapel offers a wonderful view with an orientation table. Additionally, the route to Col de Baracuchet from Montbrison provides a plethora of viewpoints and magnificent landscapes.
Are there options for mountain biking near Écotay-L'Olme?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails. You can find routes like the 'MADONNE – Pumptrack loop from Montbrison' (22.3 km, easy) or the 'Vieil Écotay – View of Montbrison loop from Montbrison' (31.8 km, moderate). More MTB routes are available in the MTB Trails around Écotay-L'Olme guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions here?
Visitors appreciate the peacefulness and beautiful views at places like Col de Baracuchet (1267 m). The historical sites, such as Champdieu Priory, are valued for their rich history and restoration efforts. The frescoes inside the old chapel at Montsupt Peak and Chapel are also a highlight.
Are there any running trails in the vicinity of Écotay-L'Olme?
Yes, the area offers running trails for various fitness levels. Examples include a 'Running loop from Écotay-l'Olme' (11.8 km, difficult) and a 'Running loop from Montbrison' (6.1 km, moderate). Discover more options in the Running Trails around Écotay-L'Olme guide.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions?
The Col de Baracuchet (1267 m) is described as a peaceful mountain pass that is 'very little frequented' despite offering beautiful views, making it a good option for those seeking tranquility away from crowds.
What can I expect to see at Montsupt Peak and Chapel?
At Montsupt Peak and Chapel, you'll find a volcanic peak with a viewpoint. Inside the old chapel, you can view beautiful frescoes by opening a hatch and turning on a light switch. Behind the chapel, there's a rest area with a wonderful view, an orientation table, and even a toilet house.
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