Thiers: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

Thiers is synonymous with a knife-making tradition that can be traced from its artisanal origins through to the present day. In addition, there are paths along the Durolle, a historic town centre and contemporary art in exceptional industrial architecture.

Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Thiers has clearly specified their accommodation preference for this destination.

Culture and history

The Musée de la Coutellerie traces the social and economic history of knife-making in Thiers, from its artisanal beginnings to the start of industrialisation. Its 700 exhibits document the skill of the knife-makers and the development of knife shapes, techniques and materials from the 16th century to the present day.

The Cité des couteliers showcases contemporary knife-making and innovations of the 21st century. The Musée de la Coutellerie also offers temporary exhibitions, creative workshops, events and lectures throughout the year.

The Centre d’art contemporain du Creux de l’Enfer is a contemporary art centre founded in 1988 in an exceptional industrial building above the Durolle. Its annual programme includes solo and group exhibitions, accompanying discussion series and lectures, educational programmes and special public events.

Thiers’ medieval discovery trail leads through the town centre, designated as a protected historic area, with carved half-timbered houses and private mansions.

Paths and landscape

The Vallée des Rouets comprises two paths along the Durolle with a total length of 3 kilometres, following in the footsteps of the historic grinders. This is where “chez Lyonnet”, the last still-functioning grinding wheel, is located; visitors can see the wheel in operation and learn about the working conditions of the grinders. The Vallée des Rouets site is freely accessible all year round.

The Vallée des Usines interpretation trail is a footpath along the Durolle where visitors can explore the traces of the former knife-makers. The path has steep inclines; sturdy footwear is recommended.

The Belvédère du Rempart offers a view of the Chaîne des Puys.

Other location options include Sainte-Agathe, Le Quartier, Chapdes-Beaufort, Clermont-Ferrand, Saint Gal Sur Sioule, Randan, Orcines and Saint-Pierre-Colamine.

For the higher-level travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.