Bas-en-Basset: Loire, Nature and Culture

The Loire is one of Bas-en-Basset’s three major tourist attractions. In the Parc de la biodiversité, the area covers 200 ha and includes 13 ponds as well as the Loire. Of this, 80 ha are pond area and 10 ha are river. Walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching complement this focus on nature and outdoor activities.

Ponds, Birds and Walking Trails

In the Parc de la biodiversité, a 7 km walking trail marked in yellow starts at the « La garenne » campsite. The park also offers a mountain bike circuit. Both routes are open to everyone. PR676 Le tour des Etangs offers a different perspective on the ponds: this moderate circular route is 8.5 km long and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. At the ponds of Bas-en-Basset, you can observe resident and migratory bird species; the route is considered suitable for a family walk.

If you are looking for a longer hike rated as difficult, PR106 Le tour du Malorum is another option. The trail is 10.2 km long, takes around 3 hours and has 404 m of ascent and descent. It leads to the foot of the Château de Rochebaron, from where the castle can be accessed. Trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out. T44 – Le chemin des crêts offers a different experience: this beginner-friendly hike passes through varied scenery around the Château de Rochebaron.

Castle, Falconry and Local History

The Château de Rochebaron is a medieval castle with machicolations, ramparts and arrow slits. Two museums and a tour with 12 information panels explore the lords of Rochebaron, who lived in the castle from the 12th to the 16th century. Architecture and historical context go hand in hand here: the defensive features reflect the castle’s character, while the tour explores the history of its former residents.

The falconry at the Château de Rochebaron offers a seasonal viewing opportunity: from April to the end of October, you can see around 20 birds of prey flying free. Dates may change, so check them before your visit. Mont Malorum also has a historical connection. It is described as a Gallic oppidum. A tradition associated with it on the summer solstice, 24 June, held that the Vellavi would then finalize the marriages planned for that year.

Art and Canoeing on the Loire

La Petite Galerie presents works by local artists in a former butcher’s shop. The works on display include oil paintings, watercolours, pastels, pottery and sculptures. The programme also includes a temporary exhibition in the entrance area of the Maison de Santé Yvonne AUBERT, where a new exhibition is added every four months. If you are planning a visit, check the current exhibition programme in advance.

For a trip on the Loire, Canoe Nature Loisirs rents fully equipped single and double canoes by reservation. The provider takes participants upstream by shuttle from its base in Bas-en-Basset; their car waits at the end point of the trip. Arrangements may change, so it is a good idea to check the current details in advance. The offer also includes three canoe routes of 9, 14 and 22 km, as well as the option of renting a canoe for several days.

Discover more destinations: Connangles, Saint-Jeures, Malrevers, Vernassal, Chilhac, Couteuges, Paulhaguet, Arsac-en-Velay.

See the main travel guide: Haute-Loire.