Saint-Martin-De-Fugères
Saint-Martin-De-Fugères
Natural monuments around Saint-Martin-De-Fugères offer diverse landscapes in the Haute-Loire department of France. The region features dramatic waterfalls, serene lakes, and distinctive geological formations. These sites provide opportunities to explore the area's unique natural heritage. The commune is situated amidst volcanic landscapes and river gorges, contributing to its varied natural attractions.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Sublime view over the valley
0
0
The Beaume waterfall is a unique place! This 27 meter high waterfall is the result of erosion: the waters of the Ourzie river cut into the basalt of the plateau and spring from the top of the cliff to then give rise to the Beaume, a tributary of the Loire.
0
0
Lac du Bouchet is a magnificent body of water suitable for swimming and walking. Indeed a landscaped path goes around it. On its southern part there is a beach and a relaxation area. You will also find at the level of its northern part a very good restaurant which serves local dishes.
1
0
Superb view of the Auvergne mountains on the Velay greenway. With a small bench to take a break!
1
0
A small path of about a hundred meters allows you to pass under the basalt flow through what looks like a cave, and to observe the rock up close. The passage requires you to lean, and it is protected from the slope by a small wall. This is not the "official" general public trail but the detour does not seem forbidden (March 2021). The additional info: "beaume" comes from the Latin "balma", which means "cave"
3
0
A somewhat inconspicuous stone house can be found here, which houses the mineral water source. It was used until 1914, but was then forgotten until it was restored by a local environmental organization - SOS Loire Vivante. The spring water is very iron-rich and the iron deposits it contains are said to be slightly radioactive - it was previously said to have healing powers. The high carbonate content can be recognized by small, rising bubbles. Source: https://www.rivernet.org/loire/loireamont/bonnefont/lasource.htm
3
0
Impressive waterfall with a drop of 27m. Very busy at the weekend, as there is also a parking lot nearby. Trees that are rare for the region, such as maritime pines and the almost extinct land elm, grow in the surrounding forest.
7
0
The Lac du Bouchet, a circular crater lake that has been a listed monument since 1950. Since 1863, the lake has belonged to the department of Haute-Loire, which is managed with the help of the National Forest Service. There is a supervised bathing area on the southern shore. There is also a restaurant and boat rentals on site.
5
0
The region is rich in geological formations. You can visit the Beaume Waterfall, an impressive 27-meter high cascade formed by the Ourzie river eroding basalt. Another interesting site is the Passage Under the Basalt Flow, where you can observe the rock up close in a cave-like formation. Further afield, the distinctive volcanic plug of Mont Gerbier de Jonc, the source of the Loire River, offers panoramic views.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Lake Bouchet is ideal with its landscaped path, beach, and relaxation area, plus many kid activities along the path. The View of the Meygal Mountain Range also offers a superb vista with a small bench for breaks, making it a pleasant stop for all ages. Les Monts Breysse provide gentle inclines and good terrain for family strolls.
The natural monuments around Saint-Martin-De-Fugères are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. Summer is excellent for activities like swimming at Lake Bouchet. However, popular spots like the Beaume Waterfall can be busy on weekends during peak season.
Yes, Lake Bouchet is a magnificent volcanic lake suitable for swimming. It features a supervised bathing area on its southern shore, and the water is generally warm enough in summer.
Many natural monuments, such as the Beaume Waterfall, have nearby parking, making them easily accessible. Lake Bouchet also offers convenient access for visitors. For specific locations, it's always good to check local signage.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like 'The Château d'Arlempdes from Goudet on the Loire trail' or 'Mas de Bonnefont – Bonnefont Spring loop from Les Salles'. Cycling and gravel biking are also popular, with routes such as 'Riou Tunnel - 1,268 m – Voie verte du Velay loop from Goudet'. For more details on routes, explore the hiking guide, cycling guide, or gravel biking guide for Saint-Martin-De-Fugères.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the impressive Beaume Waterfall to the serene Lake Bouchet. The panoramic views, such as those from the View of the Meygal Mountain Range, are also highly rated. The unique geological formations and opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities are frequently highlighted.
Absolutely. The landscaped path encircling Lake Bouchet is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Additionally, the woods of Les Monts Breysse offer pleasant walks with gentle inclines, ideal for a relaxed outing.
You can expect a diverse range of natural landscapes, including dramatic waterfalls like the Beaume Waterfall, serene volcanic lakes such as Lake Bouchet, and distinctive geological formations like basalt flows. The region also features river gorges, deciduous forests, and expansive mountain views.
While primarily focused on natural beauty, the region does have historical significance. The village of Arlempdes, classified among 'Les plus beaux villages de France,' is perched on a rocky spur overlooking the wild gorges of the Loire River, offering picturesque views and a stunning natural setting combined with historical charm.
The Bonnefont Spring is known for its mineral water source, which is very iron-rich. It was historically believed to have healing powers due to its iron deposits and slightly radioactive properties. You can observe its high carbonate content by the small, rising bubbles.
Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. The View of the Meygal Mountain Range provides expansive panoramas of the Auvergne mountains. Additionally, the Mont Gerbier de Jonc, a significant volcanic landmark, offers popular panoramic views for hikers and nature enthusiasts.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Saint-Martin-De-Fugères: