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Salers
Salers village ('most beautiful villages of France') is 42km north of Aurillac, in the Massif Central, (Auvergne region). It is at the western edge of the Cantal volcanic region.
Tourist Information and places to visit
Salers dates from almost 1000 years ago, but it was during the boom years of the 15th century that much of the current town was constructed. Salers tags itself as 'a black diamond on a green carpet', a quite appropriate description, because of the dark grey volcanic stone used for many of the buildings in the town. Salers is surprisingly extravagant for such a small village, which is due to its role as a local administrative centre in the 16th century.
It is the Chateau that takes centre stage in Salers, and the Grand place (central square) with the town itself surrounded by 15th century ramparts. Two of the original gateways are still visible.
Around the central square in Salers there are magnificent and ornate houses from the 16th century, the time when the town was at its peak, with luxurious architectural detail in the carved lintel doorways and mullioned windows, and the traditional slate rooves, with theirattractive little chimneys. Nearby is the 16th century church, with a lovely porch still intact - the church also has several renowned 17th century Aubusson rugs.
It is undoubtedly Salers position in the mountains that helps attract so many visitors - 400,000 each year - and provides much of the activities in the region. The whole Auvergne region is very beautiful, and ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Perhaps even more than some of the other 'most beautiful villages in France', Salers (like Monpazier in the Dordogne region) really can cast you back in time as you wander around, with the central square especially being so 'unspoiled' by the ravages of time.
You should be aware that parking is below Salers village itself, and there is a small climb to reach the village - nothing too serious though.
Interesting sideline: There is also a race of cows called after 'Salers', which you are likely to see in the region, and a version of Cantal cheese (well known across France) called Salers - one of five AOC cheeses in the Auvergne region.
Visit Salers, France: travel, tourism, gites and hotels
Salers, Massif Central, Auvergne |
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Places to visit - Salers
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Salers.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Salers are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
- Aurillac Auvergne town at 24 km
Tourist Classifications for Salers
- Most beautiful villages in France
Information and photos
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