Saint-Germain-Laval is located above the Aix River on a hill opposite the Forez plain. The Aix is a tributary of the Loire. Anyone planning a stay in Saint-Germain-Laval may wish to rent a holiday apartment.
Geographical Setting
Near Saint-Germain-Laval, the Aix is considered a clear, shady river. Anglers value it for its populations of trout and grayling.
Culture and History
The Musée Municipal is located on the first floor of the town hall. It displays several rare Aubusson tapestries from the 12th century, as well as numerous terracotta busts.
The former Chapelle de la Madeleine is the castle chapel; it was mentioned in 1183 and restored after the destruction caused by the Wars of Religion. Its bell tower was listed as a historic monument by decree on 21 June 1952.
On the banks of the Aix, the Chapelle de Baffy stands beside its medieval bridge. It was built in the 14th century to house the Black Madonna, known as “Notre Dame de Laval”. The Maison à colombages was built in the 15th century and extended during the Renaissance.
Paths and Circular Walks
The historical circular walk is a marked 2-km route on foot, suitable for beginners and taking around one hour. It uses around 30 information panels to explain the history of the place and notable houses, and passes a lapidary museum wall with local sculptures, some of which date from the 15th century.
The “Monument Hunt” route uses information panels explaining the history of the sites visited. A hike from the banks of the Aix to the heights of Nollieux leads to the Commanderie de Verrières, which was built by the Templars.
Nature
The Aire de pique-nique Baffie is free to access and has parking spaces and public toilets. It offers shaded picnic tables by the Aix River near the Chapelle de Baffy.
Local Life
The Brasserie La Germanoise produces unfiltered, unpasteurized beers that undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle. In a specially equipped room, it offers workshops introducing participants to beer brewing.
The Bistro Le Cheval Blanc is located in the Maison à colombages and operates as a bar and restaurant.
Other destinations in this selection include Renaison, Saint-Bonnet-Le-Château, Chambles, Saint-Marcel-De-Félines, Notre-Dame-De-Boisset, Belmont-De-La-Loire, Chandon and Cuinzier.
