Attractions and Places To See around Sury-Le-Comtal - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sury-Le-Comtal, a commune in the Loire department of France, offers a blend of historical and natural points of interest. The area is situated in the Forez plain, with its western part extending into the foothills of the Forez mountains. Visitors can explore ancient castles, scenic waterways, and religious sites. The commune is traversed by the Mare and Ozon rivers, providing diverse landscapes for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Sury-Le-Comtal
- The most popular attractions is Essalois Castle, a castle that overlooks the Loire. It offers magnificent viewpoints.
- Another must-see spot is Canal du Forez, a river and man-made canal. This 44-kilometer canal plays an important role in the irrigation of the Forez plain and is suitable for walks and cycling.
- Visitors also love Montsupt Peak and Chapel, a viewpoint with a religious building. The old chapel houses frescoes that can be illuminated, and there is a rest area with views.
- Sury-Le-Comtal is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and recreational activities. The area offers a variety of castles, religious buildings, and scenic waterways to explore.
- The attractions around Sury-Le-Comtal are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 28 upvotes and 30 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Marols
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Saint-Thomas Church
Highlight • Religious Site
The Gospel of John is the translation of the word "Gospel." This theme naturally offered opportunities for dissemination in religious art of many eras, for example in one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings – for those interested see =>> de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Der_ungl%C3%A4ubige_Thomas_(Caravaggio)#/media/Datei:The_Incredulity_of_Saint_Thomas.jpg –
The feast day of the Apostle Thomas in the liturgical calendar is celebrated partly on July 3rd and partly on December 21st.
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
Montsupt Peak and Chapel
Highlight • Volcano
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Canal du Forez
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Essalois Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Sury-Le-Comtal.
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
On the occasion of the patron saint of this church: The Apostle Thomas, one of the twelve whom Jesus called to his inner circle of disciples, is not frequently mentioned in the biblical writings of the New Testament. The passage that is probably best known to most Christians is the one following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which earned him the less-than-flattering nickname "Doubting Thomas" in popular parlance. The Evangelist John recounts this in the 20th chapter of his Gospel (the "Good News"). The Gospel of John is the translation of the word "Gospel." This theme naturally offered opportunities for dissemination in religious art of many eras, for example in one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings – for those interested see =>> https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Der_ungl%C3%A4ubige_Thomas_(Caravaggio)#/media/Datei:The_Incredulity_of_Saint_Thomas.jpg – The feast day of the Apostle Thomas in the liturgical calendar is celebrated partly on July 3rd and partly on December 21st.
1
0
The Canal du Forez is 44 kilometers long. It plays an important role in the irrigation of the lands of the plain, since it is the main water resource of the Forez basin. It is ideal for a walk.
0
0
The loop around the Canal du Forez is very pleasant and above all within the reach of all cyclists from 7 to 77 years old! The tracks are perfect, to point out the crossing of the Bonson which must be done in the water because the bridge is narrow for the crossing. Be careful on the way back, a closed lock prevents passage on the left bank.
0
1
Marols is also a village of artists. Throughout the year, local artists open their studios to the public, offering a unique opportunity to see how they work and discover their creations. During the summer, external artists will also complete the artistic panel of the village by exhibiting for 1 or 2 weeks in the 3 rooms made available in the town hall building.
4
0
Marols is a millennial city built around its hamlets. This remarkable heritage is why it has been chosen among the first villages of character in the department. Today, this history is accompanied by many events. This village has succeeded, like very few, in preserving a medieval heritage and an authentic life.
4
0
The peak of Montsupt is one of the many volcanic peaks of the Plaine du Forez and the foothills of the Monts. You can make out the valley of the Curraize to the north, and that of its tributary, the Malval, to the west. Located in the town of Saint-Georges-Haute-Ville, the mountain is close to two km from the town of Margerie.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Sury-Le-Comtal?
Sury-Le-Comtal is rich in history. You can visit the historic Essalois Castle, which offers magnificent views overlooking the Loire. The area also features the ancient Château de Sury-le-Comtal, known for its 17th-century interiors, and the notable Saint-Thomas Church.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural landmarks to visit?
Yes, for scenic views, head to Montsupt Peak and Chapel, where you'll find a rest area with wonderful vistas and an old chapel housing beautiful frescoes. The Essalois Castle also provides superb viewpoints over the Loire. Additionally, the Forez Mountains and the Mare and Ozon rivers offer diverse natural landscapes.
What family-friendly activities are available in the area?
Families can enjoy outdoor adventures at Parc Acr'Oforez, an accrobranche (tree-top adventure) park in the Forez mountains suitable for all ages. Another option is Forez Aventures in Saint-Just-Saint-Rambert, a complete leisure park with accrobranche courses for young children, zip lines, and play areas. The Canal du Forez is also ideal for family walks and cycling.
Where can I find local art or cultural experiences?
The village of Marols is a charming, well-preserved village known for its many artists' studios. You can explore the village and discover local creations. Marols also hosts various events throughout the year, celebrating its medieval heritage and artistic community.
Are there opportunities for walking or cycling near Sury-Le-Comtal?
Absolutely. The Canal du Forez, stretching 44 kilometers, is perfect for leisurely walks and cycling, offering a calm and pleasant route. For more structured outdoor activities, you can explore various routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking. For example, there are several road cycling routes like the 'Montsupt – Petit Pont loop' and gravel biking options such as the 'Forez Canal Towpath' which are accessible from the area. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Sury-Le-Comtal and Gravel biking around Sury-Le-Comtal guides.
What kind of outdoor routes can I find for mountain biking?
Sury-Le-Comtal offers a variety of mountain biking trails. You can find routes like the 'Descent in the Forest – Cross loop' or the 'Roche-Cubertelle Dolmen – The green lane and the dolmen loop'. These trails range from easy to difficult, catering to different skill levels. For a comprehensive list and details, refer to the MTB Trails around Sury-Le-Comtal guide.
What makes the Canal du Forez significant?
The Canal du Forez is a 44-kilometer man-made canal that plays a crucial role in irrigating the Forez plain. Beyond its agricultural importance, it's a popular spot for walks and cycling, offering a tranquil environment to enjoy the local landscape.
Are there any religious sites of interest in Sury-Le-Comtal?
Yes, the Saint-Thomas Church is a notable religious site, especially during the feast day of its patron saint, the Apostle Thomas. Additionally, the old chapel at Montsupt Peak houses beautiful frescoes that can be illuminated for viewing.
What are some unique discoveries or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the well-known sites, you can discover unique frescoes in the old chapel at Montsupt Peak by opening a hatch and activating the lights. The subsoil of Sury-le-Comtal also contains a rare vein of milky white flint, and archaeological excavations for the Canal du Forez have unearthed Roman artifacts and ancient flint blades, hinting at the area's deep history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Sury-Le-Comtal?
Visitors particularly appreciate the magnificent viewpoints offered by sites like Essalois Castle and Montsupt Peak. The tranquility of the Canal du Forez for walks and cycling is also highly rated. The charm and artistic atmosphere of Marols village, with its preserved heritage and artists' studios, is another highlight for many.
Are there any specific geological features in the Sury-Le-Comtal area?
The subsoil of Sury-le-Comtal is characterized by clay and limestone, which historically supported lime production. A particularly interesting geological feature is a rare vein of milky white flint found in the area, which has also led to archaeological discoveries.
Most popular routes around Sury-Le-Comtal
Most popular attractions around Sury-Le-Comtal
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:
