In 2026, Velay is more than ever a must-see destination where millennia-old heritage, spectacular shows, outdoor adventures, and exceptional craftsmanship come together to offer a year rich in emotions. Between groundbreaking exhibitions, major cultural events, new tourist facilities, large-scale sporting events, and unique immersive experiences, the region continues to innovate while showcasing its deep-rooted identity. Here are 12 good reasons (and undoubtedly many more) to come and experience the excitement, explore, and wonder of Velay in 2026!
Green lentils from Puy AOP
is building a museume
Expected to open in spring 2026 , the future Green Lentil Museum of Le Puy, located on Place du Breuil in Le Puy-en-Velay, will offer an immersive and interactive experience retracing the lentil's journey from field to plate. Spanning nearly 200 square meters, visitors will discover the producers' expertise, the nutritional benefits, the history of this iconic legume, and its place in gastronomy through fun, accessible spaces for all, including a dedicated children's area. This flagship project aims to promote a key local product.
Puy de Lumières illuminates the summer of 2026
with its new features
From nightfall until midnight, from July 3rd to September 13th, 2026 , the Velay region transforms into a veritable open-air theater thanks to Puy de Lumières . This new edition offers spectacular new creations, including a unique and surprising projection mapping on the Saint-Michel rock , as well as a new journey with the Crozatier Museum in the heart of the Henri Vinay Park. Free and open to all , this nighttime experience invites a poetic rediscovery of the region's heritage. Puy de Lumières: at night, everything comes alive! An unmissable summer event to experience and relive during a stay in Velay.
Compostella presents
his two new shows
This new season, Compostella invites the public to experience two unique immersive experiences, between a spectacular flight and a plunge into history.
In the Eye of the Peregrine Falcon
Take to the skies and let yourself be carried away on a spectacular journey above the Velay region. Through the eyes of a migratory bird, fly over magnificent landscapes, villages steeped in spirituality, and monuments that tell a thousand years of history.
Le Puy-en-Velay, at the heart of its history!
Dive into a unique and immersive experience at the heart of the history of Puy-en-Velay! This original show invites you to travel back through the centuries to discover, as you have never seen them before, the city's iconic monuments and the great moments that have shaped its identity.
National furniture
installs at the Crozatier Museum
The Crozatier Museum presents an exhibition dedicated to the excellence of French craftsmanship. Through more than 80 works from the National Manufactories (Gobelins, Beauvais, Alençon and Le Puy-en-Velay) the public discovers the richness of creations in lace, tapestry, ceramics or furniture, made after renowned artists such as Sonia Delaunay, Paco Rabanne or Jean-Michel Othoniel.
The Via Velay
invites you to escape
The Via Velay , a greenway built on the former railway line from Le Puy-en-Velay to Langogne, offers a cycling or walking route through the heart of the Velay countryside. This approximately 35-km route connects Le Puy-en-Velay to Landos, passing through five illuminated tunnels and over a 184-meter viaduct, while offering magnificent views of the Loire Valley and the surrounding countryside. Accessible to all, the Via Velay allows you to discover typical hamlets and peaceful panoramas, whether you're on a hybrid bike, mountain bike, or on foot. A true invitation to escape, it enriches the travel experience by offering a different, peaceful, and immersive way to explore the region.
The Trail of Saint-Jacques
is back for 2026
From June 12 to 14, 2026, the Trail of Saint-Jacques will bring together thousands of enthusiasts on the iconic routes leading to Le Puy-en-Velay. Between volcanic landscapes, historic trails, and a unique atmosphere, this major sporting event offers several formats adapted to all levels. An intense and friendly experience awaits, in the heart of a region where exertion rhymes with emotion and discovery. An excellent reason to explore the Velay region in 2026!
Monistrol-d'Allier is gaining altitude
with Accro Roc
Located in the Allier gorges , Accro Roc offers a spectacular course combining via ferrata, zip lines, and Himalayan-style walkways. Perched up to 90 meters above the river, it offers breathtaking views of a remarkable natural site while guaranteeing a safe progression.
Le Puy-en-Velay is a must-see
to begin his Saint-Jacques
Historical starting point of the Via Podiensis, Le Puy-en-Velay remains one of the most emblematic places to embark on the path of Saint-Jacques-de-CompostelleBetween its exceptional heritage, spiritual atmosphere, and magnificent landscapes, each departure from the upper town marks the beginning of a unique adventure. Whether you wish to hike a few stages or reach Spain, the Velay region offers an inspiring setting perfectly suited to hikers. 2026 could be the ideal year to finally take the plunge and experience the spirit of the Camino!
Portraits of artists
at the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu
From May 1st to September 20th, 2026, the Abbey of La Chaise-Dieu presents a major photographic exhibition by Magnum Photos : " Where Ideas Are Born: In the Intimacy of 20th-Century Artists ." This immersive artistic experience brings together more than 80 portraits of iconic creators, from Pablo Picasso to Andy Warhol, including Frida Kahlo and Yayoi Kusama, captured in their creative spaces by renowned photographers. Through these revealing and intimate images, the public is invited to enter the artists' studios and understand the moments when the creative spark takes shape.
The King of the Birds dives back in
the city during the Renaissance
The Renaissance Festival of the King of the Birds transforms the Velay region into a veritable historical theatre. For four days, the upper town dons its finest 16th-century colours, with encampments, shows, period markets, musicians, acrobats and historical parades that bring life to every street corner.
Hot air balloons add color
the sky of Velay
This year, from November 6th to 8th, 2026 , hot air balloons will offer the Velay region an aerial spectacle that is as poetic as it is impressive. From the first morning flights to the group launches, the multicolored balloons will paint ephemeral landscapes above the Puy-en-Velay basin and the volcanic landscapes. A magical experience, to be admired from the city or enjoyed from the basket, that is one of the highlights of a stay in Velay in 2026!
Taste the Velay
and its gourmet restaurants
The Velay region is also a destination for food lovers, boasting a constantly evolving culinary scene. From creative restaurants and welcoming bistros to traditional local eateries, the area's newest restaurants showcase local produce: AOP green lentils, farm cheeses, premium meats, and vegetables from small producers. The chefs champion a sincere, generous, and inspired cuisine, blending tradition and modernity. A wonderful opportunity to experience the Velay in a new light, through dishes that tell the story of the region!
I'm discovering Velay
Historical site and monument
Cloître et ensemble cathédral du Puy-en-Velay
Historical site and monument
Bookable online. From €7 per adult.
Company to visit
Free
Themes
