Rochefort-Montagne lies on the northern edge of the Monts Dore volcanic complex and at the end of a deep, trough-shaped valley dominated by the Tuilière and Sanadoire rocks.
Renting a holiday apartment in Rochefort-Montagne can be part of your travel plans.
Culture and History
The Church of Saint-Martin has Romanesque origins; the chancel bay and apse appear to be its oldest parts. The Church of Saint Martin de Tours is one of the last Romanesque churches still surrounded by a cemetery.
Between the 11th and 15th centuries, Rochefort-Montagne developed around a fortified rock: the Château des Dauphins d’Auvergne. Today, only part of the tower of this château remains. The present-day church in Rochefort-Montagne is a modern building in the Neo-Romanesque style and stands at the foot of the castle mound. The west façade and bell tower of the Church of Rochefort-Montagne are made of andesite.
Trails and Experiences
The “La pierre qui sonne” nature trail is a free mini-adventure experience available year-round for families with young children and includes seven activity stations over 1.2 km. It begins on Rue des écoles in Rochefort-Montagne, next to the children’s playground. There are picnic tables and public toilets near the trail.
The “Le puy d’Ébert” hike offers views of Puy d’Ébert, the Chaîne des Puys, and the Tuilière and Sanadoire rocks. It is 6.5 km long, moderately difficult, and takes around two hours without breaks.
The “Le puy d’Ébert” hike begins near the Church of Saint-Martin-de-Tours; at the starting point on municipal grounds, there is a fountain or livestock watering trough and a farrier’s stand.
Local Production
For more than 100 years, the Ferme des Combes in Montcheneix has been producing the locally characteristic raw-milk cheese Fourme fermière de Rochefort-Montagne. At the Ferme des Combes, 85 % of sales are made directly on the farm; customers include local residents and tourists.
Further destinations: Saint-Jean-des-Ollières, Parent, Saint-Victor-La-Rivière, Domaize, Gouttières, Egliseneuve-D'entraigues, Brousse, Châteaugay
