Numerous activities and attractions are available. Of these, we would like to especially advise you to visit the beautiful village of Saint-Haon-le-Châtel : a completely restored, charming medieval and renaissance village,  offering a rich cultural and artistic life where, a stroll through its picturesque lanes lined with houses made from timber makes for a great walk. Don't forget the beautiful medieval garden.

Also, take a walk through Ambierle and don't forget to visit its 14th century priory or its astounding 15th century church where you can admire its remarkable 1466 Flemish altarpiece . Also, visit  the Alice Taverne museum of arts and traditions in Forez-Roannais.

In Arcon you can go for a walk among the 216 different species of trees in the Arboretum des Grands Murcins, as well as its educational farm.

And for the gourmand, go visit the Halles de Renaison where you will meet actual taste experts, like the exquisite Hervé Mons cheese or the succulent Pralus pastries.

And then take a detour through Roanne, go for a walk on the marina, visit the Joseph Déchelette archaeological and fine arts museum , and, if you are still around in October, visit the beautiful Roanne festival open house.

Next, go on an adventure among the 250 kms of marked trails (very good detailed map at the Renaison tourist information office - 04 77 62 17 07). In La Loge-des-Gardes, you can go cross-country skiing , summer sleighing, mountain biking, in wild and beautiful surroundings.  Do not miss either the  botanical trail or the Tourbière de la Verrerie  in St Rirand. Finally, while still in St Rirand, what would you say to a visit of a bison ranch by cart and following that, a taste of bison specialities ?

by Laurent Turrel, © http://www.nuncbibendum.com 2008
For more information: www.cc-coteroannaise.fr