The surrounding area certainly keeps us on our toes. After strolling through the Forêt des Expériences in the Beaujolais region, we’re now in a different landscape, but with the same promise: to let nature fill us with wonder. As you can see, it’s time to polish your camera lens—but above all, to open your eyes wide, because sights like this one are truly one-of-a-kind… Let’s head to Pêt d’Âne!
Le Pêt d’Âne in Vézelin-sur-Loire
We’re introducing you to what may be the only place name that includes two circumflex accents. Could it be to illustrate the extraordinary shape of its meander—that immense curve that the Loire has carved out over the centuries? We’ll allow ourselves the pleasure of believing so…
In any case, the site is a must-see in the Roannais region, which already boasts quite a few magical spots, with Pommiers-en-Forez at the top of the list. As for Le Pêt d’Âne, there’s no medieval village or thousand-year-old castle here. Just nature, offering us one of its most beautiful panoramas. Much like the Mont du Chat lookout, the view is breathtakingly beautiful.
Once there, you’ll find everything you need to have a great time: a picnic area, informational signs to help you learn all about the local flora and fauna, and a trail that lets you explore the surrounding area. Once again, the Roannais region is brimming with hidden gems. If you decide to visit, be sure to head to the beautiful village of Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire, just a stone’s throw away.
When the Michelin Guide takes a seat at the table… of explorers!
Thanks to the Michelin Guide, which lists all the best restaurants in the world, we’re all familiar with the Bibendum Gourmand— especially in Lyon. But did you know that the tire-shaped mascot also likes to get out and about? Every year, Michelin publishes a Green Guide that lists all the most amazing places in our countryside, and the Pêt d’Âne is among them, boasting two stars to its credit.
Le Pêt d’Âne, just like Île Chambod and Lac de Barterand, is designated as a “Sensitive Natural Area,” and the department is doing everything it can to preserve the area’s biodiversity and ensure it remains open to the public. Its preservation also depends, above all, on each and every one of us.
