Allier, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a rural department with a rich terroir. To disconnect from everyday life, we recommend staying in Vichy, Moulins or Montluçon. The Pal zoo, La Loge des Gardes resort and Tronçais forest offer family-friendly activities in natural surroundings.
Discover the Allier: must-sees
Vichy: nicknamed “the queen of spa towns” – spa town remarkable for its Flemish-style XIXᵉ buildings
Moulins: a city of art and history to explore, especially its museums and heritage.
Montluçon: for its medieval character, with a visit to the Château des Ducs de Bourbon.
Le Pal zoo and La Loge des Gardes resort: the perfect place for a family outing combining nature and leisure.
Forêt de Tronçais: a natural destination to recharge your batteries.
Proposed 5-day itinerary
Day 1 – Vichy: Parc Célestin, Source Célestin, Plage des Célestins
Day 2 – Moulins: stroll through the Mariniers district, visit the Maison Mantin
Day 3 – Bourbon-l’Archambault: discover history at the Château des Sires de Bourbon
Day 4 – Forêt de Tronçais: nature immersion and forest activities
Day 5 – Montluçon: visit the Château des Ducs de Bourbon and picnic in the Wilson garden.
Other suggestions
Most beautiful mountains: Puy de Montoncel (highest peak, 1,287 m), montagne Verte, Grand Roc, Rez de Sol, monts de la Madeleine
Why visit Vichy? Vichy is without doubt the most popular tourist destination in the Allier department, and indeed in the whole Auvergne region. Thanks to its small size, the town is easy to visit on foot, making your stay in Allier even more enjoyable. Vichy boasts impressive Flemish-style buildings dating back to the 19th century. Home to its eponymous water, which you can drink in the Parc Célestin, Vichy is also famous for its thermal waters with their many benefits, which is why it’s nicknamed “the queen of the spa towns”.
