Along the water
Water flows generously around Clermont.
Go for a stroll or a jog along the banks of the Allier River. Hop in a canoe and explore unique fauna and flora. Or find the perfect spot to sit down with your eyes and ears peeled for signs of marine life, including ablet and roach fish.
Do you know the Allier, one of Europe's last wild rivers?
Walk along the paths that follow the banks of the Allier River from Pont-du-Château to Cournon. Or float down the river in a canoe or kayak, and discover its forests, cliffs and shores.
Brimming with natural jewels, the Allier River is home to unique fauna and flora: there are almost 1,600 plant species, at least 45 different kinds of mammals, almost 400 varieties of birds and about 40 species of fish.
From the 15th to 19th centuries, Pont-du-Château was a lively river port. Here, wine was loaded onto long pinewood boats to transport the goods up to Paris. The 18th century bridge, upstream of the old port, was designed by the engineer Régemorte.
Visit
The Bédat River
In Blanzat, Nohanent and Cébazat, enjoy a welcomed break in a landscape of orchards along the banks of Bédat. This small river holds the memories of the paper and flour mills companies such as the Saint-Vincent paper manufactory in Blanzat, that were still using the power of water in 19th century.
The Tiretaine River Valley
The river originates near the hamlet of La Font de l’Arbre, then crosses Chamalières and Clermont before flowing into the Artière and Bédat rivers.
The Gorges of the Artière River, a secret spot
In Ceyrat, the gorges of the Artière River boast delightful hiking trails. Far from the crowds, a path leads through a dense forest. Very suddenly, you can hear the sounds of rushing water. The Artière is not visible right away.
After a few hundred meters, the river is revealed and stays with you for the rest of the hike.
Along the water and the trail, discover streams, waterfalls, rock slides, the famous natural dolmen of Samson, as well as a giant octopus.
