Allanche is a fortified village built on basalt flows. The Cézallier Plateau near Allanche offers numerous panoramic views towards the Monts du Sancy and the Monts du Cantal.
Those choosing Allanche as a travel destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment there.
Character and Landscape
From the summit of Roche Grande, there are views of the Cézallier, Margeride, Aubrac, Bois de la Pinatelle and the Monts du Cantal. The Roche Grande mountain is located in the immediate vicinity of Allanche. The Puy de Mathonière and Suc de Mourcairol mountains are also in the immediate vicinity. The Montagne de Rocherousse mountain is located near Allanche.
The wider area around Allanche is home to the Château de la Cheyrelle, the Château du Jarrousset and the Château de Massebeau.
Culture and History
Allanche can be explored using enamelled plaques that explain local personalities and the history of the town. The Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, also known as the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, is located in the immediate vicinity of Allanche. It is a fortified Romanesque church from the 12th century, was gradually extended in the 15th and 16th centuries, and has been protected as a historic monument since 2002.
The Espace Cézallier presents themed exhibits on summer pastures, burons, cheese, cloth merchants, landscape design and water. These are complemented by multisensory installations involving sight, hearing, smell and touch.
Activities
The Roche Grande circular hiking trail in Allanche is 6.6 km long, takes around two hours, is marked in blue and can also be completed by mountain bike in around 45 minutes.
The Vélorail du Cézallier starts at the railway stations in Allanche and Landeyrat, following a former railway line with classic and electric rail bikes. In total, it offers four return routes ranging from 6 to 23 km from the Allanche and Landeyrat stations.
Events
The annual Foire à la brocante et aux antiquités d’Allanche focuses on antiques, folk art and vintage items; their authenticity is checked by an expert. The annual Fête de l'estive also takes place in Allanche, celebrating the driving of Salers cattle to their summer pastures.
