Between Nevers and Langogne, the Via Allier cycle route takes you through several towns and cities boasting a remarkable heritage. Take the time to explore them as part of your cycling adventure.
Nevers
Ville et Pays d'art et d'histoire
Built beside the regal Loire River, Nevers boasts an exceptional heritage, beginning with its Cathédrale Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Julitte and its Ducal Palace. The latter was the main residence of the counts and dukes of Nevers, and has even been described as the first of the Loire’s great châteaux. Ceramics would come to play an important part in the city’s history, its reputation made by the skilled craftsmen who settled here in the 16th century, turning Nevers into the French capital of faïence. Don’t miss the culinary draws either, for example stopping at the shop Au Négus in the town centre to sample the sweet treat named after it.
Moulins
Ville d'art et d'histoire
Moulins was historic capital of the Bourbon dukes. In its historic quarters, fine buildings reflect different periods. Looking from the garden beside the Musée Anne-de-Beaujeu, the architecture takes you back to the 16th century. The figures on the belfry lead you further back in time, while a drink at the Grand Café or a tour of the Maison Mantin transport you to the 19th century. Visit the town’s many further museums, du Bâtiment (on architecture), de la Visitation (on religion), de l'Illustration Jeunesse (on children’s books) and the Centre National du Costume de Scène (dedicated to stage costumes). In the striking cathedral, marvel at the triptych of the Virgin and the Apocalypse. Consider joining an illuminating guided tour of town. All told, Moulins well deserves is accreditation as a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, given its rich and diverse heritage.
Vichy
Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status
Queen of the region’s thermal spa resorts, Vichy is a place where the cult of well-being has long reigned. One historic, refined quarter follows another, but each has its own distinctive atmosphere. The quarter dominated by the thermal springs has been popular for centuries, but was transformed in the 19th, with wrought-iron walkways, English-style smart terraced houses along Rue Alquié, eclectic, splendid façades along Rue de Belgique, plus, elsewhere, colonial-style villas built in Napoleon III’s time, a bandstand and the Art Nouveau theatre-cum-casino. Both the Romantic-style parks in town and the banks of the Allier offer splendid choices for relaxing in the sun, meeting up for a drink, or even heading out for a jog. Vichy means all this, and much more!
Issoire
In Issoire, visit the splendid église Saint-Austremoine, the Auvergne’s most sumptuously decorated church, plus the visitor centre dedicated to Romanesque art. The great abbey church, one of the grandest in the region, was renovated in the 19th century, respecting the simple spirit of the Romanesque style. In addition, enjoy discovering more about Issoire in Renaissance times and beyond by taking in the exhibitions in the Tour de l’Horloge, the imposing town belfry.
Brioude
Plus Beaux Détours de France and Ville et métiers d'art
A town with a rich heritage, Brioude has been sprucing up its charming streets boasting architectural treasures. The place has received accreditation as a Ville et métiers d’art and is a member of the association Les Plus Beaux Détours de France. Among many monuments, the Basilique Saint-Julien stands out as Brioude’s main gem. Also look out for timberframe houses, fine mansions and centuries-old canons’ houses. Museums include the Maison du Saumon et de la Rivière (on wild salmon), the Hôtel de la Dentelle (on lace-making traditions) and the Maison de Mandrin (with art exhibitions), while Le Doyenné is a space dedicated to modern and contemporary art, putting on an exhibition by a major artist every summer.
Langogne
Located above the large Naussac Lake, Langogne stands at the frontier with the Languedoc, now part of the wider Occitanie Region. In the Middle Ages, ramparts were built around the town, protecting a 12th-century church, a monastery and a covered market. You can still make out the shape of these town walls, even if certain towers were long ago turned into inhabitants’ homes, and it’s possible to walk around the remnants of the ramparts, on the outer side or on the inner side. Also visit the Musée de la Filature, on popular art and traditions, especially weaving.
