Attractions and Places To See around Barges - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Barges offer a diverse range of natural and historical sites. The region features a significant volcanic lake, historical fortifications, and charming settlements. Visitors can explore ancient religious buildings and well-preserved medieval structures.
Best attractions and places to see around Barges
- The most popular attractions is Lake Bouchet, a lake that is a circular crater lake and a listed monument. It features a supervised bathing area and boat rentals.
- Another must-see spot is Pradelles…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Lake Bouchet
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On its southern part there is a beach and …
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Chapel of Our Lady at Saint James Hospital
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Saint-Pierre Church
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Besset Gate
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Pradelles
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Tips from the Community
The faithful trust in the help of the Mother of God – who in France is always venerated under the title “Notre-Dame” (which corresponds to the German name “Our Lady”) – was expressed by the French nun, mystic and Doctor of the Church, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux (religious name Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, 1873 to 1897) as follows: “In trials or difficulties I turn to Mother Mary, whose gaze alone is enough to dispel all fear.”
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South gate of the fortified town of Pradelles, an unmissable vestige during your visit
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Located on the “chemin de Saint-Gilles”, Pradelles had a “Road Hospital”. This hospital is located below the city, because, if charity ordered passing pilgrims to be accommodated, prudence with regard to brigands and epidemics advised to do so "outside the walls". The statue of Notre-Dame, of which Robert-Louis Stevenson wrote, in 1878, "that it worked many miracles although it was made of wood", was discovered in 1512 near this hospital in a wooden chest buried at a unknown period. She was placed in the chapel adjoining the hospital. The current Notre-Dame chapel was built by the Dominicans, the first stone was laid on May 8, 1613. The bell tower was raised in 1655. The chapel was restored and redecorated from 1867 to 1876, the bell tower was remodeled in 1879, to accommodate the Bourdon (large bell with a deep sound). The stone dome topped with the statue of the Virgin was completed in 1889.
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The Besset portal is the southern gate of the city of Pradelles, the rue Basse which descends from it joins the Entressac to reform the "Chemin de Saint-Gilles" which takes on the name of "Chemin de Régordane" a little further south. We can clearly see the structure of the gate, with a first arch, behind which the heavy iron portcullis slid (in the slides dug into the stone), and a second arch against which the heavy wooden gate pivoting on iron hinges was closed. (part of which is still sealed in the wall) and locked by wooden bars anchored in notches cut in the stone.
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The current church of Pradelles was built to replace an old church, in Romanesque style, which had become too small for a population which reached 2000 souls at the end of the 19th century. The plans were drawn by Mr. Tracol, architect, and adopted on August 16, 1897; the demolition of the old church began in March 1900, and the first stone of the new building was laid on June 26, 1900. The new church was inaugurated on November 12, 1902. In the washerwomen's lane, south of the church, two old Gothic style doors are classified as historic monuments. From the square located behind the church, in front of the Presbytery, the view extends from the ridges of Margeride, to the west, to the summits of Mont Lozère. The old brothers' school, to the west of the square, now houses the "Living Draft Horse Museum".
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Lac du Bouchet is a magnificent body of water suitable for swimming and walking. Indeed a landscaped path goes around it. On its southern part there is a beach and a relaxation area. You will also find at the level of its northern part a very good restaurant which serves local dishes.
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The Notre-Dame chapel, built by the Dominican friars in 1613, has a statue of the miraculous Madonna, who is the destination of a pilgrimage every August 15th.
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Pradelles is classified as one of the "Plus beaux villages de France" (Most beautiful villages in France). Pradelles is situated on a ridge between the Loire and Allier valleys.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Barges?
The most prominent natural attraction is Lake Bouchet, a beautiful circular crater lake. It's a listed monument and offers a supervised bathing area, boat rentals, and a landscaped path for walking around it. Visitors describe it as a magnificent body of water suitable for swimming and walking, with various hiking paths around it.
Are there any historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit in the Barges region?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can explore Pradelles, a fortified town classified as one of the 'Most beautiful villages in France,' featuring an old town with remarkable heritage like portals and a Romanesque chapel. Other significant historical sites include the Besset Gate, the southern gate of Pradelles, and the Chapel of Our Lady at Saint James Hospital, known for its miraculous Madonna statue and historical significance on the 'chemin de Saint-Gilles'.
What is special about the village of Pradelles?
Pradelles is classified as one of the 'Plus beaux villages de France' (Most beautiful villages in France). It's a fortified town, originally from the 11th century, situated at an altitude of 1,150 meters. It offers wonderful panoramas of the Margeride, the Allier, the Naussac reservoir, and the Mézenc, alongside its well-preserved historical heritage.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions around Barges?
Absolutely! Lake Bouchet is highly recommended for families. It features a supervised bathing area, boat rentals, and a landscaped path around the lake with many kid activities. The water is often warm enough for swimming in summer, making it a great spot for a family day out.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Barges region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and running. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'Lake Naussac – View of Lake Naussac loop from Pradelles'. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Route de la Vallée (D88) – Saint-Haon loop from Barges'. Runners have options like the 'Running loop from Goudet'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Running Trails around Barges.
Are there hiking or walking trails available near Barges attractions?
Yes, particularly around Lake Bouchet, there are well-marked hiking paths ranging from 6km to 21km. These trails are suitable for various fitness levels and offer beautiful views of the volcanic lake. Additionally, the fortified town of Pradelles provides interesting walks through its historic streets and offers panoramic views.
What is the significance of the Besset Gate?
The Besset Gate is the southern gate of the fortified town of Pradelles. It's an unmissable vestige that clearly shows the structure of an ancient gate, complete with slides for a heavy iron portcullis and hinges for a wooden gate. It was part of the historic 'Chemin de Saint-Gilles', which later became the 'Chemin de Régordane'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Barges?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Bouchet, noting its suitability for swimming and walking, and the scenic trails. The historical charm and well-preserved heritage of Pradelles, especially its status as one of the 'Most beautiful villages in France,' are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared 17 photos and given 54 upvotes for these attractions, highlighting their appeal.
Can I swim in Lake Bouchet?
Yes, Lake Bouchet features a supervised bathing area on its southern shore, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming. Visitors often mention that the water is warm enough for swimming, especially during the summer months.
What is the Saint-Pierre Church in Pradelles?
The Saint-Pierre Church in Pradelles is a significant religious building constructed to replace an older, smaller Romanesque church. The current church was inaugurated in 1902. From the square behind the church, you can enjoy extensive views stretching from the ridges of Margeride to the summits of Mont Lozère. The church also features old Gothic-style doors classified as historic monuments.
Are there any unique historical facts about the Chapel of Our Lady at Saint James Hospital?
The Chapel of Our Lady at Saint James Hospital is notable for a miraculous Madonna statue, which Robert-Louis Stevenson wrote about in 1878. This wooden statue was discovered in 1512 near the hospital, which historically accommodated passing pilgrims. The current chapel was built by Dominicans in 1613 and has undergone several restorations, with a pilgrimage held every August 15th.
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