Loire, Natural gorges in Monistrol-sur-Loire, France
The Gorges of the Loire form a river section in Monistrol-sur-Loire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, where the waterway cuts through steep rocky slopes and forested banks. This stretch covers several kilometers and creates a distinctive landscape between the highlands and the flatter terrain further east.
The construction of the Grangent dam between 1955 and 1957 created a reservoir on the Loire and reshaped this river section completely. The hydroelectric plant uses the natural elevation drop and has defined the topography of the gorge ever since.
The Saint-Just glassworks maintains a two-century tradition of producing colored glass plates through traditional glassblowing techniques.
Walking paths follow the banks and climb the slopes, while water sports opportunities are available on the lake. Numerous starting points give access to routes of varying difficulty, suitable for short walks or longer day hikes.
A glassworks nearby has produced colored glass plates for two centuries using traditional methods and can be visited. Essalois Castle offers a rooftop terrace with views over the lake and an information center about the geology and natural history of the gorge.
Location: Allier
Location: Ardèche
Location: Cher
Location: Indre-et-Loire
Location: Loir-et-Cher
Location: Loire
Location: Haute-Loire
Location: Loire-Atlantique
Location: Loiret
Location: Maine-et-Loire
Location: Nièvre
Location: Saône-et-Loire
Address: Gorges de la Loire, 42123 Cordelle, France
GPS coordinates: 44.84167,4.21861
Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00
Between plains, dormant volcanoes, and deep forests, the Loire reveals a wealth of cultural heritage. Here, medieval castles stand alongside the wild landscapes of gorges and the Pilat massif, abbeys weave through hills and valleys, and fortified villages still carry the scent of the Middle Ages. From Saint-Étienne to Roanne, you pass cobbled streets, castles perched on heights, hidden waterfalls, and buildings designed by Le Corbusier. Each turn tells a chapter of history, an ancient stone, a landscape brought to life by the wind. The Loire is a land of contrasts, both industrial and poetic, proud of its legacy. These are the places not to miss to explore its soul, between built heritage and preserved nature.
The bodies of water in Centre-Val de Loire include natural lakes, ponds, and artificial reservoirs. The region features Lake Éguzon for water sports, the Brenne ponds forming a mosaic of 2000 water bodies, and recreational bases like Lake Bretonnières. These sites offer opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and bird watching. The Briare Canal and Loire River also run through the region. The Sologne ponds and Orléans forest ponds are natural areas with beaches and trails.
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