Saint-Germain-Laval Between History and River

Saint-Germain-Laval sits on a hill above the River Aix, opposite the Forez plain. The Aix is a tributary of the Loire. When looking for a hotel in Saint-Germain-Laval, you can plan your trip around whether you are especially interested in historic buildings, collections, trails or brewing culture. The different themes give the town more than one point of interest: you can explore local history on a marked circular trail, discover chapels by the river or learn about beer brewing.

Chapels, History and Collections

The Chapelle de la Madeleine is the castle chapel. It was mentioned in 1183 and restored after the destruction caused by the Wars of Religion. The bell tower of the former Chapelle de la Madeleine was listed as a historic monument by decree on 21 June 1952. The mention of the chapel and the later listing of the bell tower refer to different historical points of reference.

On the banks of the Aix, the Chapelle de Baffy stands beside its medieval bridge. It was built in the 14th century to house the Black Madonna, known as “Notre Dame de Laval.” The Maison à colombages also reflects several phases of construction: it was built in the 15th century and extended during the Renaissance. The Bistro Le Cheval Blanc is located in this house and operates as a bar and restaurant.

The Musée Municipal is located on the first floor of the town hall. It displays several rare Aubusson tapestries dating from the 12th century, as well as numerous terracotta busts. The tapestries and busts offer different perspectives within the museum: you can compare textile works with a collection that also includes sculptural pieces.

Town Walk and Historic Trails

The historic trail is a marked circular walking route suitable for beginners. It is two kilometres long and takes about an hour. Around 30 information panels explain the town’s history and notable houses. The route thus combines specific information about distance and duration with details about buildings and local history.

Along the route, you will pass a lapidary museum wall featuring local sculptures, some of which date from the 15th century. Another route, the “Chasse aux monuments,” uses information panels to explain the history of the places visited. Both routes therefore include historical information, but focus on different things: the circular trail passes notable houses and the sculpture wall, while the “Chasse aux monuments” panels focus on the places visited.

For a hike, the trail leads from the banks of the Aix to the heights of Nollieux and the Commanderie de Verrières. The Commanderie was built by the Templars. The area’s history thus ranges from a walk through Saint-Germain-Laval to a destination in the heights of Nollieux.

The Aix and the Aire de pique-nique Baffie

The Aix is described at Saint-Germain-Laval as a clear, shady river. Anglers appreciate it for its trout and grayling. The Aire de pique-nique Baffie offers shaded picnic tables by the river and is close to the Chapelle de Baffy. It is free to access, and there is also parking and public toilets. The river, chapel and picnic area offer different ways to enjoy the riverside landscape.

Brewing and Local Life

The Brasserie La Germanoise offers introductory beer-brewing workshops in a specially equipped room. The brewery produces unfiltered, unpasteurised beers that undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle. This adds another focus to your trip planning, distinct from historic buildings and trails: an insight into brewing and local beer production. Together with the Bistro Le Cheval Blanc, it complements Saint-Germain-Laval’s historical and scenic attractions with places to eat and drink, without requiring a longer outing or a specific route.

Discover more destinations: Doizieux, Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf, Arthun, Estivareilles, Bessey, L'horme, Saint-Laurent-Rochefort, La Valla-sur-Rochefort

Go to the main travel overview: Loire.