Attractions and Places To See around Les Ancizes-Comps - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Les Ancizes-Comps, a commune in the Puy-de-Dôme department of France, offer a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites. The area is characterized by the Sioule valley, the artificial Lac des Fades-Besserve, and its proximity to the Chaîne des Puys. Visitors can explore architectural heritage, natural features, and cultural points of interest. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Les Ancizes-Comps
- The most popular attractions is Cascade de la Tine, a waterfall that features a pretty 10m high waterfall in the woods. The path is clean and follows the river through a small forest.
- Another must-see spot is Port-Sainte-Marie Charterhouse, a historical site that is a former Carthusian monastery founded in 1219. Visitors can explore the ruins, which are listed as historic monuments, and learn about the monks' influence in the region.
- Visitors also love View of the northern part of the Chaîne des Puys, a summit viewpoint offering panoramic views of approximately 80 extinct volcanoes. This high concentration of volcanoes forms the Chaîne des Puys, unique in Europe.
- Les Ancizes-Comps is known for its waterfalls, historical sites, and panoramic viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural wonders to significant historical ruins.
- The attractions around Les Ancizes-Comps are appreciated by the komoot community, with 4 highlights and 24 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Port-Sainte-Marie Charterhouse
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cascade of the 3 Pools of Chambonnet
Highlight • Waterfall
Access is easy from the small car park near the Sioule road.
A small bridge that crosses the Sioule is also nice to see, opposite the direction of the waterfall of the 3 Cuves.
After about 15/20 minutes of walking, the waterfall is offered to you on 3 levels.
A small path climbs to the top if you feel like it... Be careful not to slip though!
Busy in summer, and it flows little, so prefer winter, or after a good period of rain.
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
Cascade de la Tine
Highlight • Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall easily accessible from the road.
The path is clean, as are the small wooden bridges.
The proposed route is pleasant, in the heart of a small forest, while following the river.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Fades Dam
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Waterfalls on the Sioule River
Highlight • Waterfall
It flows first in a northerly direction and then in a north-easterly direction from Pont-de-Menat (near the village of Menat, before Ébreuil). It is 150 km long (90 km in the Puy-de-Dôme department and 60 km in the Allier department).
Source: fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sioule
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Les Ancizes-Comps.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
At this time of year, what "calm"! And what beauty!
0
0
"The waterfall of the 3 vats of Chambonnet is one of the best kept secrets of the Combrailles. The Cubes stream descends successively into 3 natural potholes and forms a waterfall, in the heart of the forest. (Combrailles Auvergne Tourisme)." Access is easy from the small car park near the Sioule road. A small bridge that crosses the Sioule is also nice to see, opposite the direction of the waterfall of the 3 Cuves. After about 15/20 minutes of walking, the waterfall is offered to you on 3 levels. A small path climbs to the top if you feel like it... Be careful not to slip though! Busy in summer, and it flows little, so prefer winter, or after a good period of rain.
0
0
"A hike from the town of the commune allows you to reach the waterfall. The Auzelle stream flows into the Chalamont, forming a pretty 10m high waterfall in the woods. Magnificent site! (Combraille Auvergne Tourisme). A beautiful waterfall easily accessible from the road. The path is clean, as are the small wooden bridges. The proposed route is pleasant, in the heart of a small forest, while following the river.
0
0
The Sioule is a French river in the north of the Massif Central. It rises (altitude 1093 m) near the Lac de Servières in the Monts Dore massif. It flows first in a northerly direction and then in a north-easterly direction from Pont-de-Menat (near the village of Menat, before Ébreuil). It is 150 km long (90 km in the Puy-de-Dôme department and 60 km in the Allier department). Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sioule
1
0
Chartreuse Port-Sainte-Marie is a former Carthusian monastery founded in 1219 in Auvergne at the end of the Sioule valley. It is located on the road between Les Ancizes and Saint-Jacques-d'Ambur. During the French Revolution, the monastery was destroyed and today only remains as a ruin. Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chartreuse_de_Port-Sainte-Marie
1
0
The Fades dam is the largest dam in the Sioule valley. This impressive structure, built in 1968, holds up to 69 million cubic meters of water and powers a hydroelectric power station. From the top of the dam, you can admire the view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you may encounter wild animals, such as deer, foxes or birds of prey.
3
0
The Chartreuse de Port-Sainte-Marie is a former monastery of the Carthusian order founded in 1219. You can explore the ruins of the ancient buildings, which are listed as historic monuments, and discover the rich cultural and economic influence of the monks in the region. You can also admire the landscapes of the Sioule valley, which is part of the Natura 2000 network, and discover the diversity of the region's flora and fauna. The site is open to visitors from Easter to All Saints' Day and offers guided tours, games, workshops and cultural events.
2
0
This is the Fades viaduct.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural attractions around Les Ancizes-Comps?
The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring the stunning Gorges de la Sioule and the vast artificial Lac des Fades-Besserve, which is the largest reservoir in the Puy-de-Dôme department. You can also explore several waterfalls, including Cascade de la Tine and Cascade of the 3 Pools of Chambonnet.
Are there any historical sites to visit in Les Ancizes-Comps?
Yes, you can explore the ruins of the Port-Sainte-Marie Charterhouse, a former Carthusian monastery founded in 1219 and listed as a Historic Monument. Another significant architectural landmark is the impressive Viaduc des Fades, a railway viaduct soaring over 130 meters above the Sioule valley.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Les Ancizes-Comps?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on numerous marked trails, fishing in the Sioule river or Lac des Fades-Besserve, and rock climbing. The lake is also popular for swimming, sailing, water skiing, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boating. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes, such as the Fades-Besserve Lake Loop, which you can find in the Cycling around Les Ancizes-Comps guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities available?
Absolutely. The Lac des Fades-Besserve features three equipped and supervised beaches (Confolant, Le Pont-du-Bouchet, and La Chazotte) during July and August, complete with children's games and picnic areas. The Cascade de la Tine is also considered family-friendly with an accessible path through the forest.
Where can I find panoramic views of the region?
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the View of the northern part of the Chaîne des Puys, which offers vistas of approximately 80 extinct volcanoes. The Belvédère des Ancizes also provides magnificent views of the Sioule valley. Additionally, the iconic Puy-de-Dôme, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about 21 km away and offers extraordinary views.
What are some unique cultural experiences near Les Ancizes-Comps?
Beyond historical sites, you can visit Vulcania, a European park of volcanism located about 15.9 km away, or explore the unique 'open-air volcano' at Volcan de Lemptégy. The Chemin Fais'Art in Chapdes-Beaufort also offers a cultural experience, and a local market is held in Les Ancizes-Comps on Fridays.
What is the best time of year to visit Les Ancizes-Comps?
The best time depends on your interests. For swimming and water sports at Lac des Fades-Besserve, July and August are ideal as beaches are supervised. If you prefer hiking and want to see waterfalls at their fullest, visiting after a good period of rain or during winter might be better, as some waterfalls flow less in summer. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Are there any running trails in the area?
Yes, there are several running trails around Les Ancizes-Comps. You can find routes like the Viaduc des Fades – Beautiful view of the Sioule loop or the Sioule Reservoir loop. More options are available in the Running Trails around Les Ancizes-Comps guide.
Can I cycle near the attractions?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. There are various routes for touring bicycles and road cycling. For example, you can try the Fades-Besserve Lake Loop or the Pont de Menat – Viaduc des Fades loop. Details on these and other routes can be found in the Cycling around Les Ancizes-Comps and Road Cycling Routes around Les Ancizes-Comps guides.
What is the Viaduc des Fades and what can I do there?
The Viaduc des Fades is a historic railway viaduct, one of France's highest. You can admire its grandeur from various viewpoints. A unique experience is crossing it via a Vélorail, which departs from the old station of Les Ancizes-Comps, offering a different perspective of this impressive structure and the Sioule valley.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Les Ancizes-Comps?
Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, especially the accessible waterfalls like Cascade de la Tine, which offers a pleasant walk through the forest. The historical significance of sites like the Port-Sainte-Marie Charterhouse and the panoramic views from spots like the View of the northern part of the Chaîne des Puys are also highly rated.
Most popular routes around Les Ancizes-Comps
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
