Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde - Top 18
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde include a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. This commune in the Loire department of central France features rural charm and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore rolling hills, proximity to the Massif Central, and characteristic stone buildings. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde
- The most popular attractions is Montsupt Peak and Chapel, a viewpoint that…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Marols
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Saint-Thomas Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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
Champdieu Priory
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Col de Baracuchet from Montbrison
Highlight (Segment) • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde.
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
It was wonderful on my way #berndscamino https://huettemann.eu/de/2024/02/bergauf-bergab-an-die-loire-berndscamino/
1
0
The priory represents a monastic complex built from the 11th century. Rich in sculpted capitals, the church stands out with its half-buried crypt from the 11th century, while the refectory still retains a 15th century fresco representing The Last Supper.
5
0
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
Former Benedictine priory founded around the year 1000 and restored in the 1970s. Today it hosts guided tours, exhibitions, concerts, association events and private events.
5
0
Very beautiful pass from Montbrison with a plethora of viewpoints and magnificent landscapes. The end is in the forest we feel that we are at altitude with a well deteriorated road and not salty in winter, so beware of ice. The percentages are not impressive but it is quite long.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
You can visit the historic Champdieu Priory, a former Benedictine priory founded around the year 1000 that now hosts guided tours, exhibitions, and concerts. Another significant site is the Saint-Thomas Church, dedicated to Saint Thomas the Apostle, which is of interest for its religious history. The village of Marols also offers a glimpse into local artistic culture with its many artists' studios and preserved medieval heritage.
Are there any natural viewpoints or scenic spots in the area?
Yes, Montsupt Peak and Chapel offers magnificent landscapes and a nice rest area. You can also find numerous viewpoints and beautiful scenery at Col de Baracuchet, especially when approaching from Montbrison. The surrounding uplands provide rolling hills and scenic vistas, characteristic of the region's natural beauty.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
The region is excellent for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. You can find various routes, including road cycling options like the 'Gorges du Vizery loop' or 'Col de Baracuchet (1267 m) loop'. For mountain biking, consider trails such as the 'Champdieu Priory – MADONNE loop'. Explore more options on the dedicated guides for Road Cycling, MTB Trails, and Cycling around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
Yes, both Marols and Champdieu Priory are considered family-friendly. Marols is a charming village with artists' studios that can be interesting for all ages, while Champdieu Priory offers guided tours and events suitable for families.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Thomas-La-Garde for outdoor activities?
The region's natural beauty, particularly around Col de Baracuchet, is magnificent. While many outdoor activities are enjoyable in warmer months, be aware that roads at higher altitudes, like the Col de Baracuchet, may not be salted in winter, so caution is advised due to potential ice.
Where can I see frescoes in Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
You can view beautiful frescoes inside the old chapel at Montsupt Peak and Chapel. To see them, you'll need to open a hatch in the door and activate a light switch, which illuminates the interior for a brief moment.
What makes the village of Marols special?
Marols is a very pretty, typical, and well-preserved village known for its many artists' studios. It has successfully maintained its medieval heritage and authentic life, making it one of the first villages of character in the department.
Can I find any hidden gems for hiking or cycling in the region?
Saint-Thomas-La-Garde is recognized as a region with many hidden gems for those who enjoy hiking or cycling. The diverse terrain, from rolling hills to mountain passes, offers numerous opportunities to discover less-traveled paths and scenic routes.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
The commune is characterized by its rural French charm and traditional architecture. You'll find characteristic stone buildings throughout the area, reflecting the region's authentic architectural style.
What is the significance of Champdieu Priory?
Champdieu Priory is a significant monastic complex built from the 11th century. It features a church with sculpted capitals and a half-buried crypt from the 11th century. The refectory also preserves a 15th-century fresco depicting The Last Supper.
Are there challenging cycling routes near Saint-Thomas-La-Garde?
Yes, the area offers several challenging cycling routes. For road cycling, options like the 'Gorges du Vizery – Béal Pass loop' and 'Col de Baracuchet (1267 m) loop' are rated as difficult. Similarly, mountain bikers can tackle the 'Refuge du Garnier – Plateau du Livradois-Forez loop', also classified as difficult.
Most popular routes around Saint-Thomas-La-Garde
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:
