Discover La Sauvetat

La Sauvetat combines a fortified townscape with a history of winegrowing and the landscape of the southern Limagne. If you are planning a stay focused on specific cultural and natural themes, you will find architectural heritage in the town and routes for different ways of exploring. Since June 2018, La Sauvetat has held the “Petite Cité de Caractère” designation.

Forts, Arkose and Winemakers’ Houses

The forts of La Sauvetat are vernacular architectural ensembles made of arkose, with monastic influences and agricultural structures. The fortified quarter is one of the most outstanding reminders of the history of the Forts Villageois. In the winemakers’ houses, the living quarters are above the cuvage. Their architectural features range from the fortified quarter to the layout of the winemakers’ houses. For travellers interested in culture, both the ensemble and the distinctive character of these houses offer a tangible point of interest.

Arkose Tower and Other Heritage

The round Arkose Tower was built at the end of the 14th century, stands 24 metres high and offers panoramic views from its platform. Its construction date, height and views make it a striking focal point for exploring La Sauvetat’s history. The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste houses a “Vierge en majesté”. The Porte Saint-Jean recalls the commandery of the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. Alongside the forts’ architectural history, the heritage includes a work of art in the church and the town gate’s connection to the commandery.

On Foot or by Mountain Bike

There are different route options for exploring on two wheels or on foot. The circular “Les forts de La Sauvetat” trail is 7.5 kilometres long; its stated duration is 2 hours and 15 minutes. It is rated easy and runs at an altitude of 379 to 420 metres. Mountain bike route No. 23, “Cités de caractère”, is 11 kilometres long, starts at Domaine de Chadieu in Authezat and leads visitors to discover La Sauvetat. The routes can therefore be distinguished by their respective modes of travel and stated distances. As route conditions and operator information can change, check the latest route information before setting out.

Landscape and Christmas Market

La Sauvetat is part of the “Limagne viticole” winegrowing area in the southern Limagne. A green corridor along the Charlet stream frames the town. These details highlight two different aspects of the landscape: the wider winegrowing region and the stream corridor surrounding La Sauvetat. The town is also connected to Clermont-Ferrand via the A75.

An annual Christmas market adds a recurring event to the cultural attractions. Around 100 producers showcase their skills in the commandery’s cellars. Dates and participating producers may vary. If you would like to make the market the focus of your trip, check the relevant event dates before planning.

Discover more destinations: Vergheas, Thiolières, Gelles, Augnat, Ménétrol, Sainte-Agathe, Saint-Rémy-Sur-Durolle, Saint-Jacques-D'ambur.

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