Advice

We'd like to take a quick break from your tour to mention all the other points of interest that couldn't be included in the itinerary. If you're lucky enough to spend a few days in the Roanne region, you absolutely must visit the splendid La Roche Castle, just twenty kilometres from Roanne. Set in the middle of the Loire, this historic treasure has stood here since the 13th century. If you're looking for a viewpoint, head for the Pêt d'Âne, one of the region's most beautiful panoramas, which offers breathtaking scenery. The one village around Roanne that you really shouldn't miss is Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire. This picturesque village features a magnificent medieval centre, an imposing keep and spectacular views over the surrounding area. On a fine summer day, you can take a dip in Lake Villerest, just 10 km from the city centre. For the more athletic among you, there are numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area. Alternatively, visit Saint-Haon-le-Châtel, perched on a rocky outcrop. The village is home not only to vestiges of the medieval era, but also of the Renaissance, as evidenced by its beautiful mansions. You can also explore the Renaison dams, which were built to distribute drinking water throughout the Roannais region. For those who love cycling, there’s the verdant 25km-long Véloire route that takes you on a tour of the north of the region. Simply set off with your bike for a picturesque ride through a wide range of landscapes. Nature lovers will no doubt want to take a trip to the Gravière aux Oiseaux, one of the region's most fascinating sites. Well, with all this, you've got plenty of things to do, if you feel like staying in the area for a while.