4.5
(308)
1,660
hikers
127
hikes
Hiking around Le Mayet-De-Montagne offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Montagne Bourbonnaise region in the Allier department. This area is characterized by its verdant forests, rolling hills, and several rivers like the Besbre. Hikers can explore a mid-mountain environment with varied terrain, from gentle slopes to higher points like the Puy de Montoncel. The region also features unique natural sites such as the Plateau de la Verrerie and the Saint-Vincent Rock.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.6
(16)
162
hikers
5.34km
01:23
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
20
hikers
9.87km
02:49
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
14
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A marvel of our beautiful Bourbonnais mountains
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Ferrières-sur-Sichon is the only commune in the Montagne Bourbonnaise to have preserved three of its castles: that of Bourg (16th century), that of Chappes (15th) and that of Montgilbert (13th).
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Montgilbert Castle is a ruined medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the remains of the two concentric walls, the towers, the chapel, and the seigneurial residence, and imagine the lives of the lords and soldiers who inhabited this strategic site. The castle is located on a rocky hill overlooking the Vareille Valley and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Montgilbert Castle is open to visitors year-round and admission is free.
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The center has been recently renovated and looks very nice.
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The Mayet Dam was built in 1931 on the Besbre. The dam creates a lake which offers a magnificent view of the surrounding hills and forests. The Barrage du Mayet is an ideal place to run and reconnect with nature.
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Lac de Saint-Clément is an artificial lake created by a hydroelectric dam and offers a 4.85 km loop trail, easy to follow and suitable for all levels. You can enjoy the view of the water and the surrounding forest, and listen to the song of the birds all along the route.
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The Paul Barge Arboretum is a municipal arboretum and a natural space where you can discover six hectares of vegetation. You will find various species of trees there, native or exotic, such as the ginkgo biloba and the tulip tree. You can also enjoy the three trails, the herbarium and the wood exhibitions which highlight the forest environment. The arboretum is open every day for free, allowing you to take your time and admire the beauty of nature.
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Montgilbert Castle is a ruined medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century. You can discover the remains of the two concentric enclosures, the towers, the chapel, the stately home and imagine the life of the lords and soldiers who lived in this strategic site. The castle is located on a rocky hill which dominates the Vareille valley and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Montgilbert Castle is open to visitors all year round and admission is free.
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The region around Le Mayet-De-Montagne offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 120 trails recorded on komoot. These routes cater to all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents through the Montagne Bourbonnaise.
Hikers in Le Mayet-De-Montagne will discover a diverse mid-mountain environment. The landscape is characterized by verdant forests, rolling hills, and serene lake areas. You'll find extensive forested areas like the Bois Bizin, rivers such as the Besbre, and unique natural sites like the Plateau de la Verrerie.
Yes, there are many easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Lac de Saint-Clément — loop — running from Le Mayet-de-Montagne is an easy 5.3 km loop that offers pleasant views of the lake and is perfect for a relaxed outing with children.
The region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can explore the imposing Saint-Vincent Rock, a volcanic formation offering spectacular views, or visit the unique Plateau de la Verrerie, a Natura 2000 site with a bog and rare flora. Don't miss the impressive Pisserote Waterfall near Arfeuilles, especially in spring.
Absolutely, many routes in Le Mayet-De-Montagne are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the View of the Besbre – Lake Saint-Clément loop from Saint-Clément, an easy 5.1 km trail that takes you through riverside landscapes and around the lake.
The hiking trails around Le Mayet-De-Montagne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's tranquil, unspoiled natural environment, the variety of landscapes from forests to lakes, and the well-maintained paths suitable for different skill levels.
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous experience, there are 16 difficult routes in the area. These often involve greater elevation changes and longer distances, such as ascents to higher points within the Montagne Bourbonnaise like the Puy de Montoncel, which offers rewarding panoramic views.
Certainly. The region has historical points of interest integrated into its hiking network. For example, the Chateau de Montgilbert — loop from Recost is a moderate 9.9 km path that explores the area around the historic Château de Montgilbert, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The Montagne Bourbonnaise is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly recommended. In spring, the forests are lush, and waterfalls like the Pisserote are at their most impressive due to increased water flow. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the extensive woodlands, making for picturesque walks.
Yes, you can explore routes that highlight the region's rich forestry. The Paul Barge Arboretum – Ferrières-sur-Sichon loop from Ferrières-sur-Sichon is a moderate 10.7 km hike that takes you through this notable arboretum, offering a chance to discover diverse tree species and enjoy the peaceful forest environment.
While Le Mayet-De-Montagne is a rural area, some local bus services might connect to nearby villages. However, for direct access to many trailheads, especially those deeper in the Montagne Bourbonnaise, personal transport is generally recommended to ensure flexibility and reach all starting points.
Most popular trailheads and points of interest in the Le Mayet-De-Montagne area, particularly those near villages or attractions like Lac de Saint-Clément, typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for precise parking information for your chosen hike.


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