Best attractions and places to see around Laussonne include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and outdoor activities. The town is situated in the Haute-Loire department of France, offering access to the Aubépin and Laussonne Rivers, as well as the Fraisse Plateau. The surrounding area features volcanic landscapes, mountain passes, and numerous trails for exploration. This region provides a variety of sights, from ancient structures to panoramic viewpoints.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Summit
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Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Beautiful viewpoint overlooking the village. Be careful on the climb to the cross; the rock is polished, and there's a risk of falling!
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Lots of hikers. Be polite and share the trail. The descent with the small steps is a treat.
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A pass at an altitude of over 1500 m. It is the highest in Ardèche.
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The paths on Mont Mezenc have recently been renovated. Not all of the paths shown are still there. The remaining paths are relatively wide for a mountain peak and easy to walk.
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From the parking lot of the Coubon train station, a little warm-up by going down the greenway to Brives Charensac where there is a small crossing of the Loire then join the road to get back to the transcévenole. There, the path is a natural path if I may say so where you will find stones but not smooth ground as you can find on the greenways. There are about 4 and a half km of this stone path. Then after going through a tunnel towards Lantriac, the path is much more passable. After there is a fork on the right, we cross a road and take a small path for 150 to 200 m which can be cluttered with vegetation, but it is passable. After a climb, we come to a path where there are stones. The climb can be difficult if you do not have electric assistance, or a low level of fitness. Then we join a road for 150 to 200 m before turning left and enjoying a phenomenal panorama. Then a descent where you have to take your time, a crossing of a very pleasant little village and a very smooth path but in which there can be difficulties on the ground. After we join a charming little road before making a small climb to join a small path for a few hundred meters around Arsac. Then the descent on Coubon, and the climb to join the departure car park. Be careful the climb is steep at times.
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The Col de la Croix de Boutières from Saint-Martin-de-Valamas is 27.1km long with a total drop of 1024m. The average gradient is 3.5% with maximum gradients of 9%.
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The Col de la Croix Boutières, at 1,502m, is the highest pass in the Ardèche. It separates the Velay to the west from the Cirque de Boutières to the east.
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Mont Mézenc offers an exceptional 360° panorama over the entire Massif Central and the Alps to the east. From the south of Mézenc, a large part of the South-East of France is visible up to Ventoux.
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The region around Laussonne is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the South summit of Mont Mézenc for incredible 360-degree views of the Ardèche and Haute-Loire departments, or experience the unique basalt columns of the Queyrières volcano. Other natural highlights include the picturesque Aubépin and Laussonne Rivers, the Fraisse Plateau ideal for stargazing, the Gorges du Lignon for hiking, and the stunning Cascade de la Beaume waterfall.
Yes, Laussonne boasts several historical landmarks. In the town, you'll find an 11th-century Romanesque church and old stone bridges over the Laussonne River. Nearby, the impressive Viaducts of Badioux and Fontfreyde stand as testaments to past railway ambitions. The Oratory of Saint-Roch, built in 1883, also marks a legendary spot. Additionally, the Saint-Georges Church of Coubon features a distinctive bell wall and Romanesque origins.
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the South summit of Mont Mézenc, which offers a 360-degree vista across the Ardèche and Haute-Loire. Another excellent spot is the Boutières Cross Pass, where you can admire Mont Mézenc and the surrounding landscape, noting its significance as a watershed point.
Laussonne is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy numerous marked hiking and mountain biking trails. The rivers are popular for angling, and the area is known for foraging opportunities, including picking mushrooms, blueberries, and raspberries. For specific hiking routes, explore the options in our Hiking around Laussonne guide.
While specific family-friendly highlights are not extensively detailed, the natural surroundings offer many opportunities for families. Easy walking routes, such as those along the enhanced paths of the washwomen and mill in Laussonne village, provide pleasant strolls. Exploring the Gorges du Lignon or visiting the Cascade de la Beaume can also be enjoyable for families who appreciate nature. The Saint-Georges Church of Coubon is also noted as family-friendly.
The area around Laussonne offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. You can find routes that explore verdant forests, follow crystal-clear rivers, and lead to panoramic viewpoints. For detailed information on specific trails, including distances and difficulty grades, refer to our Hiking around Laussonne guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The region offers various routes, including the Coubon to Brives-Charensac Greenway, which provides a mix of paved and natural paths. For more road cycling options, you can explore routes in our Road Cycling Routes around Laussonne guide, which includes challenging loops like 'The Mezenc plateau – Col de la Clède'.
The Queyrières volcano is unique because it's located right in the center of the village of Queyrières. It features remarkable solidified volcanic rock in regular basalt columns, resembling an organ. This natural phenomenon is considered one of the finest examples of volcanic organs, similar to the Devil's Tower in Wyoming.
Laussonne hosts several local events throughout the year. These include the Festival of the Tree Hollow in late July, the Local Festival in early August, and the Laussonne automotive coast race in mid-August. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and community spirit.
Exploring the villages and hamlets surrounding Laussonne is a great way to discover typical local elements. You'll find communal ovens ('fours banal'), village assemblies, watering troughs ('bachas'), crosses, and shoeing stocks ('métiers à ferrer'). The Valley of Aubépin is also notable for its enigmatic rocks and the historic Perbet mill.
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views, especially from spots like the South summit of Mont Mézenc and the Boutières Cross Pass. The unique geological formations, such as the basalt columns of the Queyrières volcano, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the peaceful natural environment and the opportunities for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes.


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