Attractions and Places To See around Laussonne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Laussonne include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and outdoor activities. The town is situated in the Haute-Loire department of France, offering access to the Aubépin and Laussonne Rivers, as well as the Fraisse Plateau. The surrounding area features volcanic landscapes, mountain passes, and numerous trails for exploration. This region provides a variety of sights, from ancient structures to panoramic viewpoints.
Best attractions and places to see around Laussonne
- The most popular attractions is South summit of Mont Mézenc, a summit that offers an incredible view of the Ardèche and Haute-Loire departments. This location is precisely on the watershed line, providing a 360-degree panorama.
- Another must-see spot is Boutières Cross Pass, a mountain pass and viewpoint. Visitors can expect spectacular views and observe Mont Mézenc, which marks the equitable sharing of water between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Visitors also love Queyrières volcano, a volcanic organ located in the center of the village. This site features solidified volcanic rock in regular basalt columns, resembling an organ.
- Laussonne is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and outdoor activities. The area offers a variety of sights, from 11th-century churches and old stone bridges to rivers, plateaus, and volcanic formations.
- The attractions around Laussonne are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 130 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
South summit of Mont Mézenc
Highlight • Summit
You are also precisely on the watershed line.
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Boutières Cross Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Queyrières volcano
Highlight • Volcano
The Velay region has many.
It is therefore not necessary to take the plane to observe these incredible basalt columns so regular that they are reminiscent of an organ or steps built by man. It is a natural phenomenon.
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Coubon to Brives-Charensac Greenway
Highlight • Cycleway
There, the path is a natural path if I may say so where you will find stones but not smooth ground as you can find on the greenways. There are about 4 and a half km of this stone path.
Then after going through a tunnel towards Lantriac, the path is much more passable.
After there is a fork on the right, we cross a road and take a small path for 150 to 200 m which can be cluttered with vegetation, but it is passable.
After a climb, we come to a path where there are stones. The climb can be difficult if you do not have electric assistance, or a low level of fitness.
Then we join a road for 150 to 200 m before turning left and enjoying a phenomenal panorama.
Then a descent where you have to take your time, a crossing of a very pleasant little village and a very smooth path but in which there can be difficulties on the ground.
After we join a charming little road before making a small climb to join a small path for a few hundred meters around Arsac.
Then the descent on Coubon, and the climb to join the departure car park. Be careful the climb is steep at times.
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Saint-Georges Church of Coubon
Highlight • Religious Site
From 1740 its surface area was considered insufficient but it was not until the beginning of the 19C. so that work can be undertaken to compensate for the cramped conditions of the place. Thus in 1833, the date engraved in the Saint-Ferréol chapel, the entire monument was transformed, except for the central part between the two buttresses.
The comb bell tower was then built between 1838 and 1844, its architect would have been inspired by the gable of the Puy-en-Velay cathedral. It replaced the one built in 1810 which itself succeeded the one destroyed during the Revolution. In 1875 a miter window on the façade was opened and the vaults of the church were built.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful viewpoint overlooking the village. Be careful on the climb to the cross; the rock is polished, and there's a risk of falling!
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Lots of hikers. Be polite and share the trail. The descent with the small steps is a treat.
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A pass at an altitude of over 1500 m. It is the highest in Ardèche.
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From the parking lot of the Coubon train station, a little warm-up by going down the greenway to Brives Charensac where there is a small crossing of the Loire then join the road to get back to the transcévenole. There, the path is a natural path if I may say so where you will find stones but not smooth ground as you can find on the greenways. There are about 4 and a half km of this stone path. Then after going through a tunnel towards Lantriac, the path is much more passable. After there is a fork on the right, we cross a road and take a small path for 150 to 200 m which can be cluttered with vegetation, but it is passable. After a climb, we come to a path where there are stones. The climb can be difficult if you do not have electric assistance, or a low level of fitness. Then we join a road for 150 to 200 m before turning left and enjoying a phenomenal panorama. Then a descent where you have to take your time, a crossing of a very pleasant little village and a very smooth path but in which there can be difficulties on the ground. After we join a charming little road before making a small climb to join a small path for a few hundred meters around Arsac. Then the descent on Coubon, and the climb to join the departure car park. Be careful the climb is steep at times.
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The special feature of this church is often found in this region: there is no church tower but a bell wall. The stone blocks of this bell wall have beautiful, natural color nuances. When I tried to enter the church I had a surprise: it was open! However, I quickly realized why this is so: the interior is very simple and plain. But that's exactly what I liked. There are benches, tables and toilets right next to the church and the parking lot.
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The Saint-Georges church was bequeathed to the Monastier-sur-Gazeille abbey in 1090. However, only the central part of the facade remains of the Romanesque building. From 1740 its surface area was considered insufficient but it was not until the beginning of the 19C. so that work can be undertaken to compensate for the cramped conditions of the place. Thus in 1833, the date engraved in the Saint-Ferréol chapel, the entire monument was transformed, except for the central part between the two buttresses. The comb bell tower was then built between 1838 and 1844, its architect would have been inspired by the gable of the Puy-en-Velay cathedral. It replaced the one built in 1810 which itself succeeded the one destroyed during the Revolution. In 1875 a miter window on the façade was opened and the vaults of the church were built.
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The Col de la Croix de Boutières from Saint-Martin-de-Valamas is 27.1km long with a total drop of 1024m. The average gradient is 3.5% with maximum gradients of 9%.
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The Col de la Croix Boutières, at 1,502m, is the highest pass in the Ardèche. It separates the Velay to the west from the Cirque de Boutières to the east.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Laussonne?
The region around Laussonne is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the South summit of Mont Mézenc for incredible 360-degree views of the Ardèche and Haute-Loire departments, or experience the unique basalt columns of the Queyrières volcano. Other natural highlights include the picturesque Aubépin and Laussonne Rivers, the Fraisse Plateau ideal for stargazing, the Gorges du Lignon for hiking, and the stunning Cascade de la Beaume waterfall.
Are there historical landmarks to visit in Laussonne and its surroundings?
Yes, Laussonne boasts several historical landmarks. In the town, you'll find an 11th-century Romanesque church and old stone bridges over the Laussonne River. Nearby, the impressive Viaducts of Badioux and Fontfreyde stand as testaments to past railway ambitions. The Oratory of Saint-Roch, built in 1883, also marks a legendary spot. Additionally, the Saint-Georges Church of Coubon features a distinctive bell wall and Romanesque origins.
Where can I find the best panoramic views near Laussonne?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the South summit of Mont Mézenc, which offers a 360-degree vista across the Ardèche and Haute-Loire. Another excellent spot is the Boutières Cross Pass, where you can admire Mont Mézenc and the surrounding landscape, noting its significance as a watershed point.
What outdoor activities are popular around Laussonne?
Laussonne is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy numerous marked hiking and mountain biking trails. The rivers are popular for angling, and the area is known for foraging opportunities, including picking mushrooms, blueberries, and raspberries. For specific hiking routes, explore the options in our Hiking around Laussonne guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near Laussonne?
While specific family-friendly highlights are not extensively detailed, the natural surroundings offer many opportunities for families. Easy walking routes, such as those along the enhanced paths of the washwomen and mill in Laussonne village, provide pleasant strolls. Exploring the Gorges du Lignon or visiting the Cascade de la Beaume can also be enjoyable for families who appreciate nature. The Saint-Georges Church of Coubon is also noted as family-friendly.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Laussonne?
The area around Laussonne offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. You can find routes that explore verdant forests, follow crystal-clear rivers, and lead to panoramic viewpoints. For detailed information on specific trails, including distances and difficulty grades, refer to our Hiking around Laussonne guide.
Can I go cycling near Laussonne?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The region offers various routes, including the Coubon to Brives-Charensac Greenway, which provides a mix of paved and natural paths. For more road cycling options, you can explore routes in our Road Cycling Routes around Laussonne guide, which includes challenging loops like 'The Mezenc plateau – Col de la Clède'.
What is unique about the Queyrières volcano?
The Queyrières volcano is unique because it's located right in the center of the village of Queyrières. It features remarkable solidified volcanic rock in regular basalt columns, resembling an organ. This natural phenomenon is considered one of the finest examples of volcanic organs, similar to the Devil's Tower in Wyoming.
Are there any local festivities or events in Laussonne?
Laussonne hosts several local events throughout the year. These include the Festival of the Tree Hollow in late July, the Local Festival in early August, and the Laussonne automotive coast race in mid-August. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and community spirit.
What are the best places to see typical local elements in the surrounding villages?
Exploring the villages and hamlets surrounding Laussonne is a great way to discover typical local elements. You'll find communal ovens ('fours banal'), village assemblies, watering troughs ('bachas'), crosses, and shoeing stocks ('métiers à ferrer'). The Valley of Aubépin is also notable for its enigmatic rocks and the historic Perbet mill.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Laussonne?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views, especially from spots like the South summit of Mont Mézenc and the Boutières Cross Pass. The unique geological formations, such as the basalt columns of the Queyrières volcano, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the peaceful natural environment and the opportunities for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes.
Most popular attractions around Laussonne
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