Top 6 tips for an autumn in Velay

Autumn is the perfect season to fully enjoy outdoor activities: the temperatures are mild, nature is adorned in its most beautiful colors, and every walk offers its share of discoveries. It's also the season for mushrooms, delicious meals to share, and temporary exhibitions to explore in our museums. Here's...

Top 6 tips for an autumn in Velay
  • In Polignac, the apple will be celebrated on October 17th and 18th.

    The 28th Apple Festival will take place on Saturday, October 17th and Sunday, October 18th in Chambeyrac, in the hills above Polignac. This autumn fruit will be enjoyed in all its forms: as juice, in tarts, as fritters, and simply by eating it. Between a farmers' market, music, and delicious treats, numerous activities will be offered. Don't miss...

    In Polignac, the apple will be celebrated on October 17th and 18th.
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  • Win your hot air balloon flight!

    Every year, the international hot air balloon festival colors the Velay sky, launching from the iconic monuments of the Haute-Loire region. The Tourist Office is offering you the chance to win a stay in Le Puy-en-Velay to experience the international hot air balloon festival and discover the local cuisine! The HOT AIR BALLOON GATHERING Hot air balloon enthusiasts and...

    Win your hot air balloon flight!
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  • An exhibition in tribute to Louise Delorme in Saint Julien Chapteuil

    From October 5th to November 14th, the Jules Romains Museum in Saint Julien Chapteuil hosts the exhibition "Louise Paints…" in homage to Louise Delorme. This internationally renowned artist grew up in the Haute-Loire region and drew her inspiration from the landscapes, objects, and people of the Velay. This exhibition will be a wonderful opportunity to (re)discover…

    An exhibition in tribute to Louise Delorme in Saint Julien Chapteuil
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  • In Aiguilhe, honey will be celebrated this Sunday, October 4th.

    This Sunday, Aiguilhe will host its traditional honey fair. An unmissable autumn event in Velay, it will once again bring together beekeepers, producers, locals, and visitors around honey and local expertise. "On Michaelmas, taste your honey." This popular saying perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this event, which takes place every...

    In Aiguilhe, honey will be celebrated this Sunday, October 4th.
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  • The grape harvest festival at Clos Paradis

    After a 2026 harvest season marked by demanding weather conditions but full of promise, Domaine du Clos du Paradis is preparing to celebrate the end of the harvest at its harvest festival on October 3rd. This will be an opportunity for Jade Hérail to reflect on a vintage she predicts will be of exceptional quality...

    The grape harvest festival at Clos Paradis
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  • New release: a book celebrating the 40th anniversary of the King of the Birds

    Following the publication of their first book last year, the Papegai Association has released a new work entitled "The Kings of the Bird – Stories from 40 Years of the International Renaissance Arts Festival." This new edition aims to offer an artistic perspective on this historic festival through illustrations and stories. We interviewed Thierry Fournier (President...

    New release: a book celebrating the 40th anniversary of the King of the Birds
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  • The program for the 2026 King of the Birds Festival is available.

    The Renaissance Festival of the King of the Birds returns from September 16th to 20th, 2026 in Le Puy-en-Velay for its 41st edition, themed "The New World." To plan your stay and make sure you don't miss any of the hundreds of events offered over five days, the 2026 Practical Guide is now available for purchase at...

    Parade and entertainment at the Renaissance Festival of the King of the Bird in Puy-en-Velay
  • August 12th Solar Eclipse: 600 pairs of glasses available for collection at the Tourist Office

    On August 12, 2026, the sky will offer an exceptional spectacle: the most significant solar eclipse visible in France since 1999. To allow as many people as possible to enjoy this event safely, Ici Saint-Étienne Loire is providing 600 pairs of certified eclipse glasses, available free of charge at the reception desk of...

    August 12th Solar Eclipse: 600 pairs of glasses available for collection at the Tourist Office
  • Experience summer to the rhythm of the Velay festivals

    Summer in Velay is all about festivals! Contemporary music, world dance, folk traditions, or classical music… From July to August, the Puy-en-Velay area transforms into an open-air stage with a succession of unmissable events. Whether you're a music lover, curious, or simply looking for a beautiful summer evening, here are the dates…

    The groups of the Interfolk festival in Puy-en-Velay
  • PUY DE LUMIÈRES 2026 LAUNCH: See you on July 3rd

    From July 3, 2026, summer nights will once again light up in Le Puy-en-Velay with the return of Puy de Lumières. To celebrate the launch of this 10th season and the start of summer vacation, a festive and delicious evening awaits you at the Jardin du Musée Crozatier from 19 pm! To participate in the launch...

    View of the Crozatier museum in Puy-en-Velay during Puy de Lumières
  • Experience the excitement of the Puy-en-Velay Music Festival 2026

    On June 21, 2026, Le Puy-en-Velay will celebrate the arrival of summer with the Fête de la Musique (Music Festival). From 11 a.m. to midnight, the historic heart of the city will be transformed into a vast open-air stage, hosting a succession of concerts, shows, and activities in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Between musical discoveries, encounters, and...

    Experience the excitement of the Puy-en-Velay Music Festival 2026
  • Activities around the Trail of Saint-Jacques by UTMB® 2026

    On June 12, 13 and 14, 2026, Le Puy-en-Velay and the Velay region will resonate with the rhythm of the 14th edition of the Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB®. With a new record of over 7,100 runners expected, the event confirms its status as a must-attend event on the international trail running calendar. Discover also the activities, tours and entertainment on offer...

    The arrival of the Trail Saint-Jacques under the Puy-en-Velay cathedral
  • The Cloister of Le Puy is hosting Wèn Lù, the monumental work by the artist LU Yongzhong

    From July 3 to October 18, 2026, the Cloister of Puy-en-Velay Cathedral will host "Wèn Lù, en chemin" (On the Way), a monumental exhibition by Chinese artist Lu Yongzhong, created in collaboration with Christine Arsoneau. Presented by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux and the Association En Chemin, this exhibition offers a unique artistic immersion into the heart of the Camino de Santiago...

    Wen Lu Exhibition, On the Way, at the Cathedral Cloister. Poster detail of a crane against a blue sky.
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  • Tour Auvergne Rhône-Alpes 2026: everything you need to know to attend the event in Le Puy-en-Velay

    The Velay region is preparing for a historic moment with the hosting of the 2026 Tour Auvergne Rhône-Alpes. Formerly known as the Critérium du Dauphiné, the race will officially become the Tour Auvergne Rhône-Alpes following the 2025 edition, won by Tadej Pogacar. Join us on Monday, June 8th and Wednesday, June 10th, 2026 to witness...

    Arrival of Paul Seixas Tour AURA 2025.
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  • The Trail of Saint-Jacques UTMB will break records from June 12th to 14th

    Go against the flow of the GR65 to arrive at Puy-en-Velay. This is the objective of the participants who take this legendary route, known worldwide. Different events, races or hikes allow you to experience your Spiritrail quest on the way to Saint-Jacques-of-Compostelle. Join us from June 12th to 14th, 2026 for this exceptional event between Gévaudan and Velay! From the 12th...

    The arrival of the Trail Saint-Jacques under the Puy-en-Velay cathedral
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  • The Round of Daisies in Coubon on June 20 and 21, 2026 (9th edition)

    Sport, camaraderie, and solidarity will once again be the order of the day at the Ronde des Pâquerettes, organized by the Coubon cycling club. Throughout the weekend of June 20th and 21st, 2026, hiking and cycling enthusiasts can enjoy several routes suitable for all levels, on foot, on roads, or by bike.

    The Round of Daisies in Coubon on June 20 and 21, 2026 (9th edition)
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  • 22nd edition of the Sources de la Borne festival in Félines, July 19, 2026

    For the 22nd edition of the Sources de la Borne de Félines on July 19, 2026, 3 races, 3 mountain bike rides, and 3 hikes await you! These routes will allow you to discover the magnificent surrounding landscapes in a friendly atmosphere. Alongside the races, entertainment will brighten the day for young and old alike...

    22nd edition of the Sources de la Borne festival in Félines, July 19, 2026
  • Contemporary art comes to the Crozatier Museum

    From December 6, 2025 to June 7, 2026, the Crozatier Museum opens its doors to a unique art exhibition: the "Hors-cadre" (Outside the Frame) exhibition, conceived in collaboration with the FRAC Auvergne. An immersive experience where contemporary art unfolds within the very heart of the permanent collections, transforming the museum into a true space for dialogue between ancient and...

    View of the Crozatier museum in Puy-en-Velay
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  • 12 good reasons to come to Velay in 2026

    In 2026, Velay is more than ever established as an unmissable destination where millennia-old heritage, spectacular shows, nature adventures, and exceptional expertise converge 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...

    12 good reasons to come to Velay in 2026
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  • 3 major sites to visit with just one "Pass" for Christmas!

    For the Christmas holidays, we're offering the 3-Monument Passcard, a single ticket allowing you to visit three iconic sites in the Velay region for €14 instead of €17,50! This ticket is valid from December 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026 and will allow you to discover these must-see attractions in a simple and affordable way...

    3 major sites to visit with just one "Pass" for Christmas!
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  • Christmas in Lights

    As every year at Christmas time, come and enjoy the free Christmas lights projected onto the façade of the town hall, Place du Plot. Young and old alike will be captivated by this fifteen-minute Christmas tale with sound and light. This magical Christmas show recounts the arrival of Father Christmas in Le Puy-en-Velay...

    Christmas in Lights
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  • Celebrate Christmas in Velay!

    For the holiday season, Velay invites you to experience an enchanting interlude. The flagship city of the hiking trails... Saint-Jacques Donning its festive attire, it transforms into a truly magical setting. A wonderful opportunity to discover all the magic of Christmas in a unique atmosphere! Let yourself be captivated...

    Celebrate Christmas in Velay!
  • Everything you need to know about the hot air balloon rally in Velay

    Every year, the international hot air balloon festival colors the Velay sky, launching from iconic landmarks of the Haute-Loire region. The Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office provides all the practical information you need to follow the launches, find the departure sites, and check the schedules! What are the launch sites? Ten launch sites...

    Everything you need to know about the hot air balloon rally in Velay
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  • Top 6 Autumn Activities

    Autumn is the perfect season for a walk: it's neither too hot nor too cold, and nature offers its most beautiful colors. It's also the time to pick mushrooms, enjoy a delicious meal, or take in a temporary exhibition in our museums. Here are our ideas for enjoying your...

    Mountain biking on the greenway near Solignac-sur-Loire
  • A gourmet autumn in Velay

    Autumn is the perfect season to get together with friends or family around delicious comfort food. Several towns host events centered around our local produce, such as apples, mushrooms, and potatoes from the Pays de Craponne. We invite you to discover, taste, and share delicious moments...

    A gourmet autumn in Velay
  • Experience summer in Velay

    Discover Velay, a summer of nature, culture, and excitement! Let yourself be captivated by a land of a thousand facets! Between characterful villages and preserved spaces like the Allier and Loire gorges, experience authentic and revitalizing stays. Discover an exceptional heritage, from Romanesque chapels to surprising fortresses....

    Terraces and restaurants in Puy-en-Velay
  • Interfolk Festival from July 22 to 27

    Traveling around the world in 7 days is possible in Puy-en-Velay and its surrounding areas thanks to the international folklore festival: Interfolk. From July 22 to 27, 2025, world cultures and music will come together to offer moments of magic and fraternity with folk groups from around the world....

    The groups of the Interfolk festival in Puy-en-Velay
  • The Sources of the Borne in Félines on July 20, 2025 (21st edition)

    For the 21st edition of the Sources de la Borne de Félines on July 20, 2025, 3 races, 3 mountain bike rides and 3 hiking trails await you! These courses will allow you to discover the magnificent surrounding landscapes in a warm atmosphere. Alongside the races, activities will brighten up the day for young and old alike! This event is organized...

    The Sources of the Borne in Félines on July 20, 2025 (21st edition)
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  • Free evening on Wednesday July 23 at Nuits de Saint-Jacques

    New for 2025! Following the springboard launched by the organizers of the Nuits de Festival Saint-Jacques In partnership with Crédit Mutuel, two local music groups will perform at a free evening event on Wednesday, July 23. You'll also find three other groups performing throughout the three days of the festival. Village Stage Lineup...

    Free evening on Wednesday July 23 at Nuits de Saint-Jacques
  • Rock and Water in Monistrol d'Allier on July 5 and 6

    The "Roc et Eau" Festival, dedicated to the demonstration and initiation of outdoor sports, in Monistrol d'Allier returns on the weekend of July 5 and 6, 2025. Come with family or friends to enjoy this sporting event in the exceptional natural setting of the Allier Gorges! This 6th edition of the festival reaffirms its...

    Rock and Water in Monistrol d'Allier on July 5 and 6
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  • Activities around the Trail of Saint-Jacques by UTMB®

    On June 13, 14 and 15, Le Puy-en-Velay and the Velay region will vibrate to the rhythm of the 13th edition of the Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB®. With a new record of nearly 7,000 runners expected, the event confirms its status as an unmissable international trail running event. But there's also a whole host of activities,...

    Activities around the Trail of Saint-Jacques by UTMB®
  • Gathering of the Saint-Georges of France from June 13 to 15

    For 3 days, the small village of Saint Georges Lagricol (43) will host the 36th gathering of the Saint-Georges de France. A festive event that will bring together many visitors and aims to showcase local heritage. The Program Friday, June 13th Reception of participants from 14 p.m. 18 p.m.: Official opening of the Saint Georges de France...

    Gathering of the Saint-Georges of France from June 13 to 15
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  • The Tr'Ance Arzon in Craponne-sur-Arzon on June 8, 2025

    For its 11th edition, the Tr'Ance Arzon will welcome mountain bikers, walkers, and cyclists on 7 routes, Sunday, June 8, 2025, starting from Craponne-sur-Arzon. The Tr'Ance-Arzon is the annual ride of the Ance-Arzon Mountain Bike Club. The priority is mountain biking, an outdoor sport, without forgetting our friends who walk and run by offering them dedicated routes....

    The Tr'Ance Arzon in Craponne-sur-Arzon on June 8, 2025
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  • The Critérium du Dauphiné in Haute-Loire on Tuesday, June 10

    On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the Critérium du Dauphiné will host its third stage of 3 km between Brioude (Haute-Loire) and Charantonnay (Isère). With an elevation gain of nearly 202,8 meters, this stage will test the riders, offering opportunities for attacks on hilly terrain. In the territory of the Puy-en-Velay urban area, this...

    The Critérium du Dauphiné in Haute-Loire on Tuesday, June 10
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  • The Pilgrims' Raid: international competition in Jullianges

    The cradle of equestrian sport in the region, Jullianges will host the 8th edition of the Raid des Pèlerins from August 2nd to 7th, an international equestrian endurance competition that brings together more than 500 riders from 30 different nationalities. The program includes 40 equestrian endurance events ranging from 10 to 160 km, the World Championship for 8-year-old horses, and...

    The Pilgrims' Raid: international competition in Jullianges
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  • The Round of Daisies in Coubon on June 21 and 22, 2025 (8th edition)

    Every year, for the past 8 years, sport, conviviality, and solidarity have been the watchwords of the Coubon Daisy Round. Come participate in the various hikes (on foot, by bike, or mountain bike) offered on the weekend of Saturday, June 21st and Sunday, June 22nd, 2025. All profits are donated in full to the Parents' Children's Philanthropic Association...

    Mountain biking in the Allier gorges in Saint-Privat
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  • The Cool and Green in Allègre on May 25, 2025

    "La Cool et Verte" is a race, or rather, races: hiking, horseback riding, canicross, trail running, bike & run, mountain biking, and road cycling. But these are somewhat unusual races: no timing or rankings, just pure relaxation. Each year, most of the profits are donated to charitable causes....

    The Cool and Green in Allègre on May 25, 2025
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  • The Puy-en-Velay Golf Course hosts the International Pitch & Putt Open

    Perched at an altitude of 800 meters, the Puy-en-Velay Golf Course offers a unique view of the city to golfers of all levels, on a 9-hole course. In addition to the numerous competitions offered throughout the season, it organizes the International Pitch & Putt Open on April 25, 26 and 27, in partnership with France Pitch &...

    The Puy-en-Velay Golf Course hosts the International Pitch & Putt Open
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  • Saint-Vincent welcomes the spring of hiking

    For the 5th edition of the Printemps de la Randonnée (Hike Spring), the Puy-en-Velay urban area, its Tourist Office, and the Haute-Loire Departmental Hiking Committee (CDRP43) are joining forces to showcase local communities through hiking trails. This year, the town of Saint-Vincent has been chosen to organize this...

    Hiking and viewpoint at Lavoûte-Polignac on the way to Saint-Jacques
  • Discover the art of living in Velay

    Without stories, without passions, there is no territory. Velay has kept the timeless charm of its past like pages of French history. If it was too small to represent a department on its own, it has retained its independent, sometimes rebellious character. Browse the magazine in Velay and discover the talents of...

    Discover the art of living in Velay
  • Summer continues in September

    In September, summer is not yet over, so come (re)discover Velay! This is the ideal month to set out on one of our 8 long-distance hiking trails or celebrate during the Renaissance Festival of the King of the Bird. Sports, cultural or epicurean stay, don't wait any longer, come to Velay for unforgettable moments!

    Greenway Via Velay
  • Get into Spring mode!

    Spring is the perfect season to explore authentic nature like that of Velay. Whether you're looking for a hike or an adventure, there's sure to be a playground that's right for you. This is where it all begins. Where history has left its mark through castles, chapels, abbey churches, and...

    Get into Spring mode!
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  • Puy-en-Velay in the spotlight!

    In this first quarter of 2024, Le Puy-en-Velay will be the scene of three great television operations! ARTE teams, in conjunction with teams from the Puy-en-Velay urban community, filmed at the beginning of the year at the Notre-Dame de France statue for two 52-minute reports entitled Tout sur Marie . In addition, France 5...

    View of the Notre-Dame de France statue
  • In 2024, you will love our playgrounds!

    Puy-en-Velay Tourism has chosen the Olympic theme to embody the main thrusts of its communication and actions in 2024. One object illustrates this positioning: a pilgrim's staff transformed into a relay baton, a symbol that is passed around to discover the entire tourist offering. The Velay destination...

    The Pertuis Via Ferrata
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