Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes truly lives up to its name: here, everything is about rugged terrain, striking contrasts, and unforgettable experiences. From the food-loving streets of Lyon to the peaks dominated by Mont Blanc, from the volcanoes of Auvergne to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Drôme, each region tells a different story.
In the spring, the region reveals its full charm: the villages come back to life and the landscapes change color. It’s the perfect time to explore places where culture, nature, and heritage intertwine. Among these getaways, two destinations offer a unique perspective on art and history: Valloire, a vibrant Alpine gem, and the Haute-Loire, a land of inspiration and history.
Valloire: A Living Heritage at the Summit of the Alps
Nestled in the heart of the Savoy Alps, Valloire is much more than just a mountain resort. It is an authentic village that can be enjoyed all year round.
A destination that blends nature and culture
Surrounded by mountain peaks and crossed by the Valloirette and Neuvachette rivers, Valloire first captivates visitors with its scenery, but what truly sets it apart is its ability to bring its heritage to life.
Thus, the Baroque Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, with its rich and colorful decorations, bears witness to a past deeply rooted in Savoyard tradition.
Perched on the hillside, Fort du Télégraphe stands guard over the valley, and its panoramic view of the Maurienne Valley serves as a reminder that Valloire was once a strategic location in the region.
Just a short walk away, the village’s narrow streets invite you to stroll among old chalets and artisan workshops, always surrounded by nature.
Activities for all the senses
There’s no shortage of things to do in Valloire:
- Alpine hiking: In the spring and summer, the trails offer breathtaking views.
- Cycling and Mountain Biking: legendary mountain passes and varied trails attract cycling enthusiasts.
- Arts events: Every summer, the Valloire Baroque Festival brings the region to life with performances by leading international artists. This year’s festival runs from July 25 to 31.
- Exploring Local Heritage: guided tours, local exhibitions, and meetings with artisans.
Top picks for making the most of your stay in Valloire
Accommodations: Settle in at the summit of the Alps
There are several accommodation options available, including a variety of hotels as well as a farmhouse inn that offers guest rooms in both summer and winter:
- The Grand Hôtel de Valloire: a hotel right at the foot of the slopes!
- Christiania Hotel: With its spa and restaurant, it’s the perfect place to relax
- Hôtel du Crêt Rond: a charming hotel at the foot of the Col du Galibier
- Hôtel Les Mélèzes: stay right at the base of the slopes, with a spa and a secure bike storage area for cyclists
- La Ferme des Etroits: a bed-and-breakfast nestled in the heart of nature
Restaurants: Foodies, this way!
From brasseries to bistronomic restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget when it comes to sampling Savoyard cuisine:
- Kôsa Krûta for a quick Savoyard snack
- Galibier 2250 offers a diverse and delicious menu in a cozy dining room or on a terrace with a 360° view, located just below the summit of the Col du Galibier
- Sous la Roche, local and traditional cuisine in a modern chalet
- Le Contoir, a socially conscious restaurant that sources its ingredients directly from local producers
- At Fred’s, a bistronomic restaurant with a cozy interior and a terrace
In Haute-Loire: Three Perspectives on Art and Memory
Head to Auvergne—specifically the Haute-Loire—for a cultural feast! On the agenda: art, history, and a chance to discover local craftsmanship, as this year, three exhibitions offer a glimpse into art and memory.
3 Must-See Exhibitions This Summer in Haute-Loire
Matisse and the World of Textiles
At the Doyenné, Brioude’s contemporary art space, Matisse is in the spotlight with an exhibition that focuses specifically on the artist’s love of fabrics. Coming from a family of weavers, Matisse collected numerous fabrics that were used both to drape his models and as a source of inspiration through their patterns. The exhibition thus traces the impact of fabrics on his work.
Le Doyenné
Place Lafayette, Brioude
July 4–October 18, 2026
French Excellence at the Crozatier Museum
Head to Le Puy-en-Velay for an exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the National Lace Conservatories of Alençon and Le Puy-en-Velay. For the occasion, the Crozatier Museum is hosting 80 works by renowned artists such as Sonia Delaunay, Jean-Michel Othoniel, and Paco Rabanne, drawn from the collections of the Mobilier National.
Crozatier Museum
2 Rue Antoine-Martin, Le Puy-en-Velay
June 6, 2026 – January 3, 2027
The Art Market Under Occupation at the Lieu de Mémoire
In Chambon-sur-Lignon, the Lieu de Mémoire is hosting a groundbreaking exhibition exploring the art market during the Occupation, between 1940 and 1944. As a direct consequence of the looting of Jewish families, art galleries and auction houses saw a flood of artworks pour in. The exhibition sheds light on the dark corners of the French art market during this period.
Lieu de Mémoire
23 Route de Mazet, Le Chambon-sur-Lignon
July 2–November 28, 2026
Also worth exploring in the region
Make the most of your stay in Haute-Loire to explore the Basilica of Saint-Julien, the jewel of Brioude! Then head to Terre de Géants for an immersive digital experience before hopping on the Velay Express, a historic steam train.
Enjoy your stay in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes !
