Brioude, One of the loveliest small towns in France

Let yourself be surprised by this sunny and colorful city, classified as One of the loveliest small towns in France. Wander through this historic area where ancient buildings stand witness to a rich, eventful and well-preserved past

Brioude is one of the 100 small towns with the quality label " MostBeautiful Detours of France“. It is definitely a town to discover, a place with a rich historic heritage, a large number of arts and crafts boutiques, local specialities to be discovered, and a good range of quality accommodation.

A centre of arts and crafts

“Brioude is the first town in Haute-Loire to receive the Ville et Métiers d’Art label. This distinction awarded in January 2022 rewards the city's involvement in the field of artistic crafts, in particular for its investment with theHotel de la Dentelle that she has always accompanied. This label highlights the quality of the work of local workshops: Deux Ailes and its gallery: the Third Wing, Lace Colors and other structures that live for and through know-how such as boutiques Escandilha, and Reg'Art d'Ateliers. »

Winter Season

2023/2024 will be particularly rich in events.

Like every autumn it is the opening of the Cultural season which is dense, rich and eclectic. It is punctuated by dance, theater, music and humor.

Many activities and exhibitions will liven up the winter season: Exhibitions, Book Festival at the media library, Saint Clément Fair, Christmas Market, Ice Rink for Christmas and many other surprises!

You can consult the program of music on Music in the Valley or on the agenda of the site ofBrioude South Auvergne Tourist Office

southern charm

Bordered by the Allier, one of Europe's wild rivers, and surrounded by mountains, Brioude, in the heart of Auvergne, is part of a preserved and varied natural environment, suitable for outdoor activities.

Halfway between Clermont-Ferrand and Le Puy-en-Velay, Brioude benefits from a privileged geographical location and a sunny and dry climate. Its colorful facades give the city a southern atmosphere. Local gastronomy with many specialties (cheeses and cured meats). Festive traditions promote the quality of life of the people of Brivadois. The city has 2 stars in the Michelin Green Guide since 2014.

A rich historic heritage

Custodian of a rich historical past, Brioude cultivates the charm of its streets with many architectural treasures. The city of Saint-Julien is home to several Historical Monuments including the Saint-Julien Basilica, a jewel of the city. The contemporary stained glass windows, created by the artist Kim En Joong, reinforce the polychromy and the beauty of the largest Romanesque church in Auvergne; it obtained its 3rd star in the Michelin Green Guide in 2017.

Unmissable places, preservation of cultural heritage!

The Maison de Mandrin, the Hôtel de la Dentelle, and the Centre d'Architecture et du Patrimoine appear in this list!

Throughout the year, these cultural places offer visitors and local inhabitants exhibitions to discover local arts and crafts.

THEMaison du Saumon aquarium You will discover the Allier River and its inhabitants, as well as the history of fishing practices and commercial activities over the centuries on this river with a king fish featured: salmon.

L'Hotel de la Dentelleis an exhibition, culture and training center in a magnificent XNUMX century residence

Discover the city differently

Nothing could be simpler, download the free application "Brioude Visite Virtuelle". An adult version, a children's version, are available and virtual reality surprises await you. At the Tourist Office, digital helmets with 360 ° photos allow total immersion. A table and digital tablets complete this new form of discovery of the territory.

You want to stay a few days

Many accommodations and restaurants are in the very heart of the city. Not to mention the many shops and services to discover throughout your wanderings. Indulge !