The Best Things To See And Do In Apremont-Sur-Allier France

Apremont-sur-Allier, one of the ‘most beautiful villages in France’, was particularly prosperous in the Middle Ages when quarry-men transported cut stones for the building of the Orléans Cathedral. Here are the best things to see and do in this quaint village today.

Parc Floral d’Apremont

Parc Floral is the jewel in Apremont-sur-Allier’s crown. It wears the label of Jardin Remarquable by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication and it’s easy to see why. Realised in 1970 by Gilles de Brissac, the garden was created completely from scratch. A waterfall was built with 650 tons of rocks and a series of ponds created that house water lilies, lotuses and more. Interestingly, there are no paths in the park, just lawns, flower beds and sweeping trees. There are pretty views out onto the Allier River and the Chinese bridge and Turkish pavilion add an international touch. Adult tickets are €10 and the garden is open seasonally, from the start of April until the end of September.
Parc Floral d’Apremont, Le Bourg, Apremont-sur-Allier, France, +33 248 775 506

A glass of wine at La Carpe Frite

Situated right on the banks of the river, with chairs and tables perched right next to the slow moving water, the delightful La Carpe Frite cafe is the perfect place to watch the world go by with a glass of local wine. In June, July and August, this eatery is open every day and even though these are the busiest months, they are undoubtedly the best to while away a few hours at La Carpe Frite.

La Carpe Frite, Le Bourg, Apremont-sur-Allier, France, +33 248 776 472

Abbaye Fontmorigny

Located 30 minutes north of Apremont-sur-Allier is the beautiful Abbey Fontmorigny, founded in 1149. It has hosted eight centuries of monastic history (from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution) and today, it hosts exhibitions and is a renowned music festival and wedding venue, among other things. The gardens here are particularity attractive so make sure to visit on a sunny day.

Abbaye Fontmorigny, Abbaye de Fontmorigny, Menetou-Couture, France, +33 248 761 233

Palais ducal de Nevers

The Gothic Ducal Palace of Nevers is considered one of the Loire‘s first castles. Constructed by the Count of Nevers, John Clamecy, it was home to the Counts and Dukes of Nevers and situated right in the town centre. It is open almost all year round in the mornings and afternoons and houses the town’s tourist office so you can’t miss it. In 1840, it was classified as a Historical Monument and today, it hosts many exhibitions.
Palais ducal de Nevers, 1 Place de l’Hôtel de ville, Nevers, France, +33 386 684 613