Attractions and Places To See around Paulhenc - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Paulhenc include a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites in the Cantal department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The area features the vast Lac de Sarrans and the dramatic Banks of the Truyère, known for their gorges. Historical landmarks such as the Church of Saint-Saturnin and the Chapel Notre-Dame de Turlande are also present. This region offers diverse points of interest for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Paulhenc
- The most popular attractions is Laussac Peninsula, a lake feature that is a small island of greenery on the Lac de Sarrans. It hosts an 11th-century chapel and is a popular spot for swimming.
- Another must-see spot is Devèze Bridge over Lake Sarrans, which offers views of Lac Sarrans. From the bridge, paths lead to mountain bike loops and routes along the Brezons.
- Visitors also love Banks of the Truyère, a river area with grandiose gorges. This site is classified as a Natura 2000 area and is home to various birds of prey, including peregrine falcons.
- Paulhenc is known for its natural landscapes, historical monuments, and picturesque villages. The area offers a variety of attractions to explore, from vast lakes and dramatic gorges to ancient churches and medieval towns.
- The attractions around Paulhenc are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and 6 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Laussac Peninsula
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Banks of the Truyère
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Sarrans Dam
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Mur-de-Barrez
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Devèze Bridge over Lake Sarrans
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Tips from the Community
View of the river and the grandiose and wild gorges of Truyère. The site is classified and is among the Natura 2000 areas. The gorges are home to numerous birds of prey including a large population of peregrine falcons.
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Lovely view of the Truyère which winds through the heart of the green valley. A feast for the eyes !
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On the terraces of Carladez, Mur-de-Barrez is a town with a remarkable architectural heritage. The Monaco tower, the former main gateway when the city was fortified, was the property of the princes of Monaco. In addition to the tower, the Renaissance house which houses the town hall, the two churches, the castle of Venzac and the war memorial are all protected as historical monuments.
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The Laussac peninsula is a magnificent site which once dominated the confluence of the Truyère and the Brezons. With the creation of the Sarrans dam, the water level rose to the point of making it a peninsula and an ideal site to enjoy nature and the freshness of the lake.
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Great view of Lac Sarrans from the bridge. Just after the bridge, you can join the Coupiac mountain bike loop to the east or a path that goes up towards Thérondels along the Brezons, to the west.
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Small island of greenery on the Lac de Sarrans. There is a pretty chapel from the 11th century. The banks, on the tip of the peninsula are accessible by bike by a path. Great swimming spot!
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One of the biggest dam in Europe which contains more than 1000 hectares of mountain water. A balcony path borders the lake, just after the bridge. A single site!
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Mur-de-Barrez is a pretty fortified medieval village, perfect for lovers of history, heritage and architecture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Paulhenc?
The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit the vast Lac de Sarrans, explore the Laussac Peninsula which is a popular swimming spot, and admire the dramatic gorges of the Banks of the Truyère, a Natura 2000 site known for birds of prey. Further afield, the Valley of Brezons features numerous waterfalls, including the recommended "Du saut de la truite," and you can find expansive views from Plomb du Cantal and Puy Griou.
Are there any historical sites or cultural landmarks in Paulhenc and its surroundings?
Yes, Paulhenc itself is home to the 13th-century Church of Saint-Saturnin and the Chapel Notre-Dame de Turlande, built in 1275, both classified historical monuments. The Demeure de Fontanges, a 16th-century residence, also holds historical significance. You can also find the vestiges of the Château de Turlande. The wider region is known for traditional architecture, including houses with 'lauzes' roofs.
What are some picturesque villages to visit near Paulhenc?
Several 'Most Beautiful Villages of France' are within easy reach. You can visit Tournemire, home to the impressive Château d'Anjony, or the highly recommended picturesque village of Salers. Additionally, the medieval village of Mur-de-Barrez is worth exploring.
What outdoor activities can I do near Paulhenc's attractions?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking, mountain biking, and running trails. For example, there are mountain bike loops and routes along the Brezons accessible from the Devèze Bridge over Lake Sarrans. You can explore more options for MTB Trails, Hiking, and Running Trails around Paulhenc.
Are there any family-friendly attractions around Paulhenc?
Yes, the Laussac Peninsula on Lac de Sarrans is a great family-friendly spot, offering swimming opportunities. The Sarrans Dam area also provides scenic views and is suitable for families.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Paulhenc?
Excellent viewpoints include the Devèze Bridge over Lake Sarrans, offering views of Lac Sarrans. The Banks of the Truyère provide grandiose views of the gorges. For panoramic vistas, consider hiking up Plomb du Cantal, which offers views of the Cère Valley, Puy Mary, and Puy Griou.
What is the local gastronomy like in the Paulhenc area?
The Cantal region, where Paulhenc is located, is renowned for its gastronomy, particularly its AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) cheeses. You can embark on the 'route des fromages d'AOC' to sample local flavors. Local markets in nearby towns like Sainte-Genevieve-sur-Argence, Mur-de-Barrez, Chaudes-Aigues, and Aurillac also offer regional produce.
Are there any specific hiking trails near the Lac de Sarrans?
Yes, the Lac de Sarrans area offers several hiking opportunities. A popular option is the "Laussac Peninsula Loop," which is a moderate 14.7 km hike. You can find more details and other routes in the Hiking around Paulhenc guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Paulhenc?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural landscapes, such as the serene Laussac Peninsula for its greenery and swimming, and the dramatic gorges of the Banks of the Truyère for their wild beauty and birdwatching. The scenic views from the Devèze Bridge over Lake Sarrans are also highly rated.
Can I find any waterfalls in the vicinity of Paulhenc?
Yes, the Valley of Brezons, located west of Paulhenc, is known for its numerous waterfalls. The "Du saut de la truite" waterfall is particularly recommended. Other notable waterfalls in the wider vicinity include the Cascade de Liadouze and Cascade du Déroc.
What is the Sarrans Dam and what can I see there?
The Sarrans Dam is one of Europe's largest dams, creating the vast Lac de Sarrans. It's a significant man-made monument from the 1930s. You can enjoy scenic views of the lake from the dam area, and a balcony path borders the lake just after the bridge. It's also a popular spot for predator fishing.
Are there any markets nearby to experience local life?
Yes, several nearby towns host vibrant local markets throughout the week. You can find markets in Sainte-Genevieve-sur-Argence (Wednesdays), Mur-de-Barrez (Thursdays), Chaudes-Aigues (Thursdays & Mondays), and Aurillac (Wednesdays & Saturdays). These are great places to discover local produce and crafts.
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