Chantelle is a small village with a big history. With around 1,100 inhabitants, it stands on a rocky promontory above a loop of the River Bouble in the Allier, in the old province of the Bourbonnais. It was once one of the strongholds of the powerful Dukes of Bourbon.
Why visit Chantelle
The village offers heritage, nature and calm: an abbey, the remains of a fortress, river walks and the forest of Giverzat, with Vichy and the Auvergne volcanoes within reach.
Things to see in and around Chantelle
The abbey and the church of Saint-Vincent
Religious life in Chantelle goes back to the 10th century, when canons settled here. The monastery became an abbey in 1891, and the church of Saint-Vincent still testifies to the village’s medieval past.
The fortress of the Bourbons
Chantelle’s castle was a powerful fortress. Anne de Beaujeu, daughter of King Louis XI, often stayed here, and a legend says that the Constable of Bourbon fled from it in 1523 with his horse’s shoes put on backwards. Most of the castle was demolished in 1638 on Cardinal Richelieu’s orders; fragments of its walls still overlook the Bouble valley.
The Bouble valley and the forest of Giverzat
Walk along the River Bouble and in the forest of Giverzat, both part of the commune.
Nearby
The medieval village of Charroux, the vineyards of Saint-Pourçain and the spa town of Vichy (about 37 km) make easy excursions.
Best time to visit
May to September is ideal for walking and countryside visits.
Getting there
Chantelle is about 37 km west of Vichy, 45 km south of Moulins and 66 km north of Clermont-Ferrand. The A71 motorway is about 20 km away. A car is essential. The nearest airport is Clermont-Ferrand.
What to eat
Bourbonnais specialities such as pâté aux pommes de terre, piquenchâgne (pear tart) and wines from Saint-Pourçain.
FAQ
Is Chantelle worth a detour?
Yes, if you enjoy quiet villages with history and river walks.
How far is Chantelle from Vichy?
About 37 km, roughly 40 minutes by car.
