Montmarault

Discover Montmarault, a stopover village in the heart of Auvergne

Located in the Allier department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Montmarault is a crossroads village strategically positioned at the intersection of the Paris-Montpellier and Annecy-La Rochelle routes. Easily accessible from exit 11 of the A71 motorway, this destination in the heart of the Bourbonnais bocage offers an ideal stopover for discovering the treasures of Auvergne.

A rich and authentic heritage

Mentioned as early as the 12th century under the name Mons Smaragdi, Montmarault has retained its old-world charm. The village invites visitors to stroll along its heritage trail, which reveals the Church of Saint-Étienne, built in the 12th and 13th centuries, as well as other historical monuments. Railway enthusiasts will appreciate the Allier Railway Museum, which retraces the history of rail in the Bourbonnais region through a unique collection of documents and models.

On Wednesday mornings, the local market offers the chance to discover regional specialties from the Bourbonnais region, notably the famous potato pie, the tradition of which is perpetuated by a local brotherhood. The Tourist Information Centre, located at the motorway exit, houses a shop selling regional products bearing the "Allier Bourbonnais Savoir Faire" label.

A gateway to the must-see sites of Auvergne

Montmarault is the perfect base for exploring the region's major attractions. The Le PAL amusement and animal park, Vulcania, and the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are all easily accessible. History and culture enthusiasts can also visit the National Center of Stage Costume in Moulins, the MuPop in Montluçon, or Paléopolis.

Nearby, don't miss Charroux, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, the spa town of Néris-les-Bains, or the spa town of Vichy, renowned for its thermal and architectural heritage.

Montmarault combines Bourbonnais authenticity, a strategic location and proximity to the most beautiful sites of Auvergne, for a relaxing stopover or a family discovery stay.