Our campsites in Allier
in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Are you planning a camping vacation inAllier?
With Cottage Parks, choose an eco-responsible campsite to explore a region rich in natural landscapes, characterful villages and historical heritage. Located in the heart of the Auvergne region, the Allier offers a multitude of activities for lovers of nature, culture and gastronomy.
For your next vacation, let yourself be tempted by an ecological campsite in theAllier region and enjoy a stay in harmony with unspoilt nature.
Allier, the ideal destination for your camping holidays
The Allier department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is the perfect destination for a camping holiday. It combines unspoilt natural landscapes with a rich historical heritage. Bordered by the Puy-de-Dôme, Saône-et-Loire, Rhône and Creuse, this department offers a wide variety of landscapes, ideal for nature lovers.
Deep forests, peaceful rivers and lush green hills create the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. From vast woods to lakeshores and bucolic valleys, the Allier invites you to reconnect with nature in a soothing, authentic setting.
Natural parks, such as the Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park, are a must. These protected areas are ideal for hiking, cycling and wildlife observation.
The Allier will also appeal to history buffs with its medieval castles, Romanesque churches and characterful villages. Towns such as Vichy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or Moulins, with its historic charm, reveal a unique architectural heritage and authentic atmosphere.
When it comes to leisure activities, sports enthusiasts won’t be outdone. The Allier offers a multitude of activities: hiking, mountain biking, canoeing on its rivers, fishing and water sports on its lakes and ponds.
With its pleasant, temperate climate, the département guarantees a pleasant camping holiday.
Between sunny days for exploration and cool evenings for relaxation, the Allier promises unforgettable vacations in the heart of nature.
To see inAllier during your camping vacation
Discover the natural wonders of this region with its diverse and unspoilt landscapes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts:
The Tronçais forest
Considered one of the most beautiful oak forests in Europe, it’s a natural jewel in the Allier region. With its century-old trees, peaceful ponds and signposted paths, it’s ideal for hiking or family outings. The lucky ones will be able to spot deer or hear them bellowing in autumn.
The Sioule valley
This exceptional site follows the Sioule River, offering picturesque landscapes of gorges, meanders and sheer cliffs. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing or paddling, while anglers will find areas rich in fish. The viaduct circuit, in particular that of Les Fades, is also a must for a stroll.
The Saint-Clément lake
It’s perfect for family activities such as swimming, pedal-boating or a game of volleyball on the beach. A footpath along the shore invites you to walk or cycle around the lake in a green, soothing setting.
The Bourbonnais bocage
This area, typical of the northern Allier region, charms with its undulating landscapes, hedgerows and picturesque villages. A stroll through this rural region will plunge you into an authentic setting, ideal for lovers of photography and peace and quiet.
The Bourbonnais mountains
With ridges peaking at over 1,000 meters, the Montagne Bourbonnaise is the perfect playground for hikers and mountain bikers. The viewpoint at Puy de Montoncel is a must if you want to admire the spectacular panoramas over the surrounding plains.
Lake Vieure
Surrounded by meadows and forests, this lake is ideal for a nature getaway. There’s a beach for swimming, fishing and trails for walkers and cyclists. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching.
To visit in Allier
authentic villages and historical heritage
Allier is a department rich in picturesque villages and towns steeped in history. With its medieval villages, cultural sites and bucolic landscapes, this department is a real magnet for visitors.
Mills
Moulins is a historic capital with a rich heritage, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Centre national du Costume de scène. The old town, with its cobbled streets, is ideal for a trip back in time.
Vichy
A UNESCO World Heritage spa town, Vichy boasts elegant parks, Belle Époque architecture and thermal baths. A perfect setting for relaxing and exploring the surrounding area on foot or by bike.
Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule
This wine-growing village offers an immersion in the history of wine, with its cellars and Maison du Vin. Its picturesque lanes add to the charm of the escapade.
Bourbon-l’Archambault
A spa and historic site, the town is dominated by the remains of its medieval castle, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.
Charroux
Listed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Charroux charms with its cobbled streets and famous artisanal mustard.
Souvigny
A spiritual Mecca for the Duchy of Bourbon, it is home to the priory church of Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul and a rich historical and religious heritage.
Lapalisse
Known for its Renaissance château, this peaceful village offers local markets and festive events, including the famous “Rétro Mobile”.
Le Mayet-de-Montagne
Nestled in the Bourbonnais mountains, this village offers hiking trails and showcases local craftsmanship.
Saint-Menoux
Discover its Romanesque basilica and the legend of its “débredinoire”, with its bucolic paths.
Gannat
A town of art and history, Gannat is renowned for its International Folklore Festival and its medieval heritage, as well as being a gateway to the Auvergne volcanoes.
Allier landmarks
Things to do in Allier
During your eco-chic camping holiday
The Allier is an ideal destination for lovers of the great outdoors, cultural discoveries and moments of relaxation. With its rivers, forests and picturesque villages, the département offers a variety of activities to suit all ages:
- Hiking in the Bourbonnais mountains
Explore the trails of the Bourbonnais mountains and the Monts de la Madeleine massif, offering spectacular panoramic views. - Horseback riding in the heart of nature
Explore the countryside on horseback, including the Lignon valley and the forests of the Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park. A unique experience in an unspoilt setting. - Swimming and water sports
The lakes of Vichy and Pal de la Besse are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or kayaking. Rivers such as the Allier and Cher also offer ideal spots for fishing or rafting. - Climbing and outdoor adventure
The cliffs around Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule are perfect for climbing enthusiasts. You’ll also find accrobranche (tree climbing) courses for safe thrills. - Visit markets and taste local produce
Discover the markets of Moulins, Vichy or Charroux to taste specialities such as truffade, Allier cheeses or Saint-Pourçain wines.
Bourbonnais culinary specialities
The gastronomy of the Allier region features local products that will delight lovers of good food. Meats, particularly Charolais beef, are often cooked in simmered or roasted dishes to enhance their tenderness.
The Allier region is also famous for its cheese-based specialties. These include truffade, a creamy blend of potatoes and fresh tomme. It’s a perfect illustration of the simple, comforting flavors of the countryside. Pastries and sweets are not to be outdone. La pompe aux grattons, a unique blend of brioche pastry and bacon bits, is a perfect illustration of the sweet and savoury alliance of regional cuisine.
Wine lovers will be delighted by the crus of Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule, one of France’s oldest vineyards. The wines, whether red, white or rosé, are the perfect accompaniment to local dishes and reflect the region’s winemaking expertise. Last but not least, Charroux mustard, with its intense, artisanal taste, is an essential condiment for spicing up many dishes.
Allier: events
all year round
A land of history and tradition, Allier offers a rich and varied calendar of events throughout the year. From cultural festivals to sporting events and local celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Among the department’s not-to-be-missed annual events are :
- The Moulins Carnival, an explosion of color and good cheer that marks the beginning of spring (February/March);
- The Jean Carmet Festival in Moulins, dedicated to French-language cinema, attracts a large number of film buffs every year (June);
- The Bal de l’Europe in Gennetines, a week of traditional dances celebrating cultural diversity (July);
- The Ironman in Vichy, a long-distance triathlon that tests the mettle of even the toughest athletes (August);
- the grape harvest at Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule, an opportunity to discover local wines and take part in the festivities (September).
These are just a few examples of the many events taking place in the Allier throughout the year. For a fuller list and up-to-date information, please visit the websites of your local tourist office or the Conseil départemental de l’Allier.
Book your eco-friendly campsite in Allier with Cottage Parks
Looking for an authentic, environmentally-friendly holiday? Book your stay at an eco-chic campsite in Allier now.
Cottage Parks welcomes you to comfortable, eco-friendly accommodation in the heart of unspoilt countryside. Enjoy hiking, swimming in the rivers and discovering the wealth of local biodiversity.
By choosing Cottage Parks, you contribute to sustainable tourism and benefit from quality services, all in an environmentally-friendly way. Treat yourself to a nature break!