B&Bs, Châteaux, Farms and Campsites
Domaine d’Hypolite
Le Domaine d’Hypolite sits in a sheltering hollow at the head of a long, sweeping valley. A luxury retreat tucked away in the beautiful Cantal countryside, from its position on the crest it offers spectacular views across the green pastures, the wheat fields and the magnificent chestnut trees (« chataigniers ») which give their name to this whole region. This ancient hilltop barn, painstakingly restored to offer all the creature comforts you could desire as a haven of indulgence complete with its own private spa, sauna and jacuzzi.
Tipis d’hôtes Saladou
In the heart of the Lot Valley, La Ferme du Saladou offers their guests a unique approach to nature, encouraging eco-responsible stay by letting their guests live in tipis and participate in the farm life. From there, you can go hiking, cycling, or just relax. Each tipi has got 3 to 4 single beds, wood furnace and solar lamp. There is a common tipi for breakfasts and dinners or just to relax in and a bathroom inuit tent with solar shower and dry toilets.
Tipis Lalo Bas
The tipis are placed in a meadow above a forest of chestnut trees, in a very quiet hamlet next to Montsalvy. This location provides a milder climate and offers great sceneries with nature lovers appreciating the area’s calm and authenticity. The two tipis are 6 meters in diameter, have a capacity of 6 seats each and are equipped with a floor to isolate the humidity and cold. Mattresses and cushions are laid on the floors and a brazier is placed at the center in order to make a fire if it gets a little chilly.
Les Yourtes du Cantal
In the heart of a 2 hectares pine forest, to the south of Cantal, these yurts are completely integrated into the natural environment while providing all the best of modern comfort. The three yurts each have their own character and are well spaced out to provide privacy so you can quietly relax while watching the forest’s fauna and flora. All made by French craftsmen, the yurts are decorated with natural products and the bedrooms have a round bed so you can watch the stars before you sleep.
Auberge des Montagnes
This Auberge is run by a family who have lived in the small mountain village of Pailherols for over a century. The Auberge is decorated with antiques that have been passed down through generations and huge stone fire places and snug seating areas make this the perfect mountain retreat. The on site spa houses a hot tub, outdoor and indoor swimming pool a small gym, a snooker table and play area. On Saturday evenings the restaurant is often fully booked, renowned for its superb home made local food. The same family also own a chalet that can be hired on a self-catering basis and a larger hotel in the same village.
Chambres d'hotes la Roussiere
This 200 year old farmhouse has been carefully and beautifull converted into a B&B offering 3 luxury bedrooms at the foot of the Plomb du Cantal. The house sits on the edge of a remote valley, set in summer pastures, amid lush green forests and snowy hills. Its rural setting takes you far off the beaten track and is a haven of peace and fresh air. The owners have very good English and Christian is a guide in the area and so can offer you heaps of information on the best walks and sites.
Ferme le Ruisselet
Ferme le Ruisselet is located in an extremely culturally-rich area. Only a short distance away you'll find the museum and cathedral of Saint-Flour, the Church of Bredons in Murat and the fascinating Castle of Alleuze. The farm itself offers a variety of accommodations including two gites, one sleeping 2-3 and the other sleeping 2-18. The larger gite has been wonderfully converted from a barn and has since been decked out in a traditional Auvergne style. You can even opt to have your hosts cook you a locally-sourced meal using ingredients grown on the farm and have it delivered straight to your dining table. The main house offers 5 comfortable B&B rooms, plus a dining room and a communal lounge. Between June and September you can also camp out on one of the 15 sites if you're only looking to stop off for a little while.
Camping Le Belvédère
In the heart of the Truyère Valley is this lovely campsite with 86 marked, shady and south facing pitches (between 80 to 100 m2), arranged in terraces offering a quiet, peaceful holiday. There is also the possibility to rent equipment should you need it. Chalets and bungalows are also available to rent.
Château de Varillettes
Situated near Saint-Flour, nestled in a green undulating landscape, Château de Varillettes borders fields and woods, and appears to watch over the rolling hills of the Margeride. Dating from the fifteenth century and originally built as a keep, this château is now witnessing a new age. Charm and authenticity have been preserved, restoring the original minimalist and sober decor. The medieval garden, the jewel in the crown, is divided into six boxwood lined squares and includes a diverse range of herbs, medicinal and aromatic plants, with sage, hyssop, wormwood and rosemary, amongst others.
Le Bon Air
Located in Fraissinet, a picturesque hamlet near Saint-Flour, this fantastic eco-friendly village is comprised of four wooden chalets and is the first of its kind in Cantal to receive the Green Key certification. Energy saving credentials include solar panels, a thermal water heater and goethermal heating, with the self produced energy doing much to power the entire site. The gites themselves are modern and comfortable, with decking outside where you can look out over the surrounding countryside.