Vichy - reviews from tourists. Vichy - city and resort of France Vichy city in France attractions

The Vichy resort is located in the central Auvergne region of France, on the shores of a picturesque lake and the Allier River, in the heart of Bourbon - the “Bourbon Province”. This modern French resort is located a 4-hour drive from the capital of France - Paris.

Resort type

Thermal spa

Description

The city of Vichy is the recognized “king” of resorts, a charming town with a rich culture and a developed entertainment industry. The Vichy resort gained wide popularity during the reign of Emperor Napoleon III, after whom one of the central parks is named.

The resort of Vichy is now one of the most beautiful resorts world, it is literally surrounded by the greenery of gardens and reserves, of which there are almost 160 hectares in the city, and the surrounding forest, in which more than 500 species of various animals are found.

The thermal waters of the Vichy resort are known throughout the world for their beneficial effects on the body, so many celebrities and famous people. There is hardly a person who has not heard of this elegant spa resort, which is famous for its dermo-cosmetic treatments from the Vichy brand of the same name, whose products have a unique composition and contain valuable mineral elements through the use of thermal water from the Lucas spring.

It is worth noting that UNESCO included the Vichy resort in the list of world heritage in the group “Thermal Cities of Europe” in 2014, which makes it an even more popular destination for health and recovery holidays.

The balneological resort of Vichy attracts guests not only with mineral and thermal springs, the water from which has healing properties, but also with a warm climate, picturesque nature, big amount beautiful green parks, as well as the opportunity to combine treatment with relaxation prestigious resort France. For its sophistication, beauty and aristocracy, this resort can rightfully be called “little Paris” on the Allier River.

It is at this resort that guests have a great opportunity to combine wellness holiday with visits to famous restaurants and cozy cafes, known for their amazing French cuisine.

Vichy is ideal for a calm and relaxed holiday, as well as for guests who like to be active free time. Despite the development of the resort area in this city since the 17th century, modern Vichy lives a rich social life: the city has entertainment and leisure for every taste.

Video about the resort of Vichy, France

Type and properties of thermal water

  • There are a total of 15 cold and hot springs at the resort, 6 of which are drinking.
  • Vichy mineral waters are hydrocarbonate-sodium, rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, the water temperature in the springs ranges from 16°C to 75°C
  • Fluoridated mineral water from springs

The alkaline effect of sodium bicarbonate helps combat the acidity of food. It is a favorite water of athletes in the fight against cramps and fatigue, stimulating muscle recovery.

Bicarbonates have a beneficial effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism, have an anti-inflammatory effect, and reduce the acidity of gastric juice.

Calcium strengthens bone tissue, thickens cell membranes, and reduces bleeding.

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, removes heavy metal salts and radionculides from the body.

Vichy thermal water, consumed internally according to medical prescription, complements thermal treatments. Being a biologically active natural substance, it is recommended for digestive and metabolic disorders, as well as for rheumatism.

Natural healing factors

The climate is warm, moderately humid. The average air temperature in January is +5°C, in July - about +22°C.

Mud therapy

The resort uses thermal mud combined with local clay and mineral water. In combination with hydrotherapy, mud therapy helps relieve muscle tension, improve lymphatic drainage and microcirculation and speed up metabolism.

Indications for mud therapy

  • Degenerative joint diseases (arthrosis, rheumatism, osteoporosis)
  • Post-traumatic deformities
  • Skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis)

Indications for treatment

Externally
  • Diseases of the musculoskeletal system (rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, arthrosis, osteoporosis, ankylosing spondylitis)
  • Skin diseases (atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, ichthyosis, psoriasis, eczema)
  • Respiratory diseases (except tuberculosis)
  • Diseases of the cardiovascular system (rehabilitation after myocardial infarction and heart surgery)
  • Diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system (functional disorders of the nervous system, rehabilitation after strokes, neuroses, depression, fatigue)
  • Diseases of the endocrine system and metabolic disorders
  • Decreased immunity
Inside
  • Diseases of the musculoskeletal system with impaired microelement metabolism (arthrosis, complications after injuries, osteoporosis, gout, periarthritis, tendovaginitis)
  • Diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, biliary dyskinesia in children and adults, peptic ulcer, colitis)
  • Endocrine and metabolic diseases (gout, hypercholesterolemia, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus)
  • Urological diseases (cystitis, urethritis)
  • Stress, overwork, obesity

Contraindications

  • Kidney failure
  • Chronic bilateral pyelonephritis
  • Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
  • The city of Vichy is a balneological resort.
  • The city has an unusually developed infrastructure, which makes the Vichy balneological resort the flagship of the resort business in France.
  • While walking around the city, you can try water from different sources yourself.
  • There are several treatment centers in Vichy, among which Célestin (specializing in cosmetic procedures) and Kalu (for the treatment of gastroenterological diseases) stand out.
  • The healing properties of thermal water are widely used in the famous Vichy cosmetics brand.
  • At the resort you can relax and undergo treatment with your children.

Vichy Celestins Thermal SPA

The Celestin thermal center is one of the most famous not only in France, but throughout Europe. It is connected to the hotel by a covered walkway. The procedures are carried out using mineral water from local sources. It is worth noting that it is better to immediately drink water from sources on the spot, since in air it quickly oxidizes and loses its healing effect. Guests have access to a fitness centre, jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath. Wellness treatment corresponds to the Vichy method, which includes 5 areas:

  1. Medical consultation and nutritionist consultation
  2. Carrying out Vichy procedures based on thermal water
  3. Special procedure by choice or according to indications
  4. Exercise in the mineral water pool or fitness room
  5. Proper nutrition, cuisine based on mineral water

The Celestin Center is one of the largest SPA centers in Europe, with treatment rooms covering 7,500 sq.m.

The dermocosmetology center at the Celestin SPA center offers services for diagnosing skin conditions, determining its type and biological age, as well as procedures for men and women based on Vichy products. Mud treatment procedures with wraps, plant-mineral mud wraps are carried out, which improves the condition of the skin. The SPA center offers a wide selection of SPA programs for excellent well-being: “Royal Luxury”, “Especially for Women”, “Especially for Men”, “Rejuvenation” and others. The Celesten center also offers a wide range of beauty and health programs, which include procedures for facial rejuvenation (anti-aging care), detoxification of the body, weight loss, treatment of back, neck and joint pain.

Thermal center Les Thermes Callou

The Kallu Baths opened in 1990 and are open from April to October. The following procedures are available in the thermal baths: baths, jacuzzi, jet shower, underwater shower, dispersed shower, mud therapy, massage, fitness, care procedures. The Kallu Center specializes in the treatment of gastroenterological diseases.

Center Thermal des Dômes

The Dom Baths are open from February to December. The thermal baths offer the following services: drinking treatments, thermal pool 35°C, sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, cardio zone, outdoor pool. The dermatocosmetic center of the Dom thermal center operates on the basis of Vichy cosmetics and Luke spring mineral water.

Vichy is a resort that offers guests a lot of social entertainment: performances at the Opera House, concerts under open air, horse racing, elegant shopping, casinos, evenings in trendy bars and restaurants, yacht races, rowing competitions, as well as romantic walks through the city park, the front embankment, and the medieval streets of the city. The surrounding area of ​​the resort is conducive to travel: ancient castles, extinct volcanoes, the royal estate of Randan.

Excursion opportunities

Vichy is distinguished by a variety of architectural attractions. The eclecticism of the resort amazes tourists; the city is replete with a mixture of classical, Gothic and Venetian styles. In the old part of the city you can visit the Notre-Dame des Malades church, built in the Art Deco style using various decorative techniques (painting, mosaics and stained glass). The city has a large number of parks, which provide an excellent opportunity to take a cozy stroll, breathe fresh air and simply relax on a sunny day. Often in the evening, resort guests attend performances in Opera House. The outskirts of the city have ancient castles, a park extinct volcanoes“Vulcania”, not far from Vichy there are cheese factories and wineries where you can organize unforgettable excursions.

Sports opportunities

Organizing an active pastime in the French resort of Vichy will not be difficult: excellent conditions for horse riding and golf have been created especially for guests; the parks are equipped with jogging and cycling paths. Guests who love to exercise can visit sports complex and the Vichy water stadium.

Entertainment for children

You can also relax in Vichy with children; for this purpose, the resort has not only therapeutic capabilities, but also entertainment, comfortably integrated into the atmosphere of the city.

For example, a city tour on a mini-train will be an unforgettable adventure not only for children, but also for their parents. In the Vichy Springs Park you can find carousels for your children. Some Vichy centers, for example, the Kallu center, specializing in gastroenterological diseases, carry out balneological procedures for children, preventing the development of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Nearest major cities

Lyon - 150 km
Dijon - 220 km
Limoges - 240 km
Paris - 360 km

Distance to airports

Clermont-Feran - 54 km
Lyon - 170 km
Paris - 340 km

Vichy is a city in France, located in the Allier department in the region.

The city is located on the right bank of the Allier River, the main tributary of the Loire. The average temperature here in January is +3 degrees, in May – +14, in August – +19.5, in November – +7.

How to get to Vichy

By car

By highway A71 (from Paris), A89 (from Lyon), A75 (from Montpellier), A89 (from Bordeaux).

By train

From Paris (3 hours), Lyon (2 hours), Marseille, Bordeaux and Nantes there is a daily direct connection.

By plane

The nearest airport is Clermont-Ferrand. The most convenient way to get to Paris from Russia is:

Vichy Hotels

History of Vichy

The city was founded under the Romans. In the Middle Ages it was part of the Duchy of Bourbon. In 1527 it came under the French crown. From the end of the 17th century. People come to the city to be treated by the waters, which are gaining legendary popularity and help against many diseases.

In the 19th century, Vichy was a fashionable resort, visited by celebrities and the powerful. Emperor Napoleon III made a great contribution to the development of the city and its improvement, who himself came here several times to visit the waters. By his order, the Allier River was fenced, 13 hectares of English parks were laid out, street axes were re-laid, chalets and pavilions were built for the emperor and his retinue. They didn’t forget about entertainment: the casino was built in an eclectic style.

The second major construction campaign began during the Belle Epoque (late 19th century - early 20th century before the First World War): an opera house in the Art Nouveau style, a hall of springs and a large balneological health resort in oriental style were built. In 1900, the Park of Springs was surrounded by a covered iron gallery. In the first half of the 20th century. private mansions and palaces were built in a wide variety of architectural styles.


During the capture of Paris by the German occupiers in 1940 - 1944. Vichy becomes the seat of the French government.

After the war, the city does not stop developing: the cream of society comes here. In 1960, Vichy had 13 cinemas, 8 dance floors, three theaters - it was at this time that the city received the title of “king”.

In 2014, UNESCO added Vichy to the list of world heritage sites in the group “Thermal Cities of Europe”.

Vichy waters

The beneficial effects of Vichy thermal waters were recognized by the Romans BC. The water of mineral springs is rich in sodium bicarbonate and carbon dioxide, as well as numerous trace elements. Vichy waters are recommended for diseases of the liver, gall bladder, pancreas, stomach and intestines.


Vichy sources
Hot Springs
La source Chomel Source Shomel (named after Dr. Shomel, who developed it in 1750) 43 degrees
La source Grande Grille Source Grande Grill (“Big Lattice”). So named because it used to be behind bars that blocked the way for livestock. 39 degrees
La source de l' Hospital Source Opital (“Hospital”). Located behind the casino on the site of the first city hospital. 34 degrees
Cold Springs
La source Lucas Luke's Source. Named after Baron Luc, the medical inspector who purchased the spring for the state in the early 19th century. 27 degrees
La source du Parc Source Park. Located in Springs Park. Appeared in 1844, since 1850 it has been beating periodically. 23.8 degrees
La source des Celestins The Celestin spring is named after the 15th century monastery that stood here. 22 degrees

Waters from the Lucas, Chomel, Grande Grille, Célestins, Hôpital springs are taken as drinking water. They are rich in sodium bicarbonate. Waters from the Chomel and l’Hôpital springs improve blood microcirculation and reduce the function of the sebaceous glands. In addition, thermal mud in combination with local clay and mineral water also have a beneficial effect on the body. But due to its high sodium content, Vichy water is not recommended for patients with high blood pressure (consultation with a physician or cardiologist is required).

The most famous water from Vichy, which is also sold in bottles, is Vichy Celestin. The source is located on the site of a former monastery in a 19th century building, surrounded by a park. This is sodium bicarbonate water, naturally carbonated, rich in mineral salts and trace elements.


The main hydropathic centers of Vichy

In the Vichy spas, health and beauty treatments are based on the thermal waters of Vichy. Here they drink water, take baths, showers, and have massages under water.

Les Thermes des Dômes (hydropathic House)

The Hydropathic House is a building recognizable by its neo-Moorish dome in the city center. The main purpose is therapeutic procedures. In addition, the center offers course health procedures. The spa is connected to the hotel l’Hôtel Mercure Vichy Thermalia****. In addition to treatment rooms, there is a tea room, a garden, a heated swimming pool, a relaxation room, a cardio-training room, a sauna, a hammam, an outdoor swimming pool with thermal water at 35 degrees with lighting and underwater music... Various health programs are offered: “Health Restoration”, “Lose weight in Vichy”, “Prevention of arthrosis”, weekend programs.

A general wellness program for 5 days with accommodation in a double room at the Mercury Hotel, connected to the thermal center, or at the Ibis Hotel costs from 662 euros per person; for weekends (2 nights) – from 265 euros.

Website of the Therm de Dome hydropathic center in Vichy (Russian version): http://www.vichy-thermes-domes-hotel.ru/

Les Thermes Callou

This is the newest hospital built in Vichy in the 1990s. Connected to the Kalu Hotel, Ibis. Includes 143 treatment cabins. Hospital orientation: rheumatology, arthrosis, digestive problems, obesity.

Website of the thermal spa Therm Kalu in Vichy: http://www.vichy-thermes-callou-hotel.fr/

Le Vichy Célestins Spa Hotel*****

The Vichy Célestins Spa Hôtel***** has the largest spa area in Europe. The spa is directly connected to the hotel, and each guest can walk straight from their room to the treatment room in their robe. Various wellness programs based on thermal waters are offered. The Institute of Vichy Laboratories is also located here - a center for cellular restoration of the skin - and a Health Center with programs of “Health - Form - Beauty” procedures.

Website of the spa hotel in Vichy (in Russian): http://www.vichy-spa-hotel.fr/ru

What to visit in Vichy

Old city

There are no ancient buildings left in the city, because... it was destroyed during the religious wars. In the old part of the city, the church of Notre-Dame-des-Malades (1925 - 1937, architects Chanet and Liegier) in the Art Deco style using various decorative techniques (painting, mosaics and stained glass) is of interest ).

Mineral Water Quarter

Mineral Water Quarter, or Spring Park, – quiet place for walks and relaxation. The park was created by order of Napoleon I in 1812; in 1900 it was surrounded by an iron-covered gallery to facilitate the movement of holidaymakers between water sources. Everything related to the life of the resort is concentrated around the park: hydropathics, entertainment venues (casinos, cabarets), music kiosks and hotels.

Hall of sources

The hall was built in 1903 over the location of 4 springs (Chomel, Grande Grille, Lucas, Mesdames). Its authors are the architect Charles Lecoeur and the ironworks specialist Emile Robert. Since 1971, 6 springs have been presented under the roof of the hall, which are freely accessible for those undergoing a healing course.

Large thermal spa

The oriental-style hospital building was built in 1903 by architect Charles Lecoeur. The building houses an emergency room and treatment rooms, a specialized medical center, a gym and technical services, for example, a water bottling shop. The building is now occupied by the Terme de Dom company.

Source Celestin

The natural outlet of the most famous water from Vichy. Water breaks through aragonite rock in a Louis XVI style covered pavilion built in the early 20th century.

Gallery of Napoleon III

The second class hydropathic facility was built in 1858 by the British architect Karl Badger. From its construction, the central building in the neo-classical style remains to this day.

Alquier street

On this street there are houses built around 1863 by the architect Jean Lefort for the officers of the imperial guard who accompanied Napoleon III during his stay in Vichy.

Chalet Napoleon III

Two colonial-style chalets with elements of English and Swiss architecture were built in 1862. architect Jean Lefort near the new park for the personal use of the emperor.

Napoleon III Park

The English park of 13 hectares was created in 1861 by order of Napoleon on the site of small swampy tributaries of the Allier River. The park has about 450 trees of 65 different species from different parts of the world.

Boulevard of Russia

Boulevard with buildings built at the end of the 19th century. – early 20th century in eclectic style.

Belgium street

This street illustrates the heyday of urban villas in thermal resort at the end of the 19th century. – first half of the 20th century.

Isaac Strauss House

The conductor of the Paris Opera and the Imperial Court, Isaac Strauss, came to Vichy in 1844 and brilliantly managed the hydropathic salons for 20 years. Thanks to him, the city acquires the glory of a city of pleasures. The Strauss House was built by the architect Hugues Batilla in 1858 (4 Rue de Belgium). Napoleon III also lived in this house during his first visits to Vichy in 1861 and 1862.

Rental Company Chalet

In 1853, Arthur Calou and Stanisla Lebob created the Vichy Hydrotherapy Rental Company. The company receives the right to use state-owned sources, in return committing to modernize and improve the infrastructure of the thermal resort. The chalet, built in the 19th century, hosted celebrations of the company's general management. Now this building houses a restaurant.

Casino - theater

On the façade of the first casino in Vichy there are four caryatids, representing the four seasons, a sculpture by Carrier-Beleuze. The building itself, at the request of Napoleon III, was built by the architect Karl Badger in 1865. The building also housed a ballroom, a theater, and gaming salons.

In 1900, it was planned to expand the building - the architect Charles Lecoeur built a large theater in the Art Nouveau style. Thanks to this hall, Vichy became the summer musical capital of France; the greatest artists from all over the world performed on the stage of this theater. Today this building houses the Palace of Congresses - Opera.

Church of Saint-Louis

In 1865, by order of Napoleon III, construction of a new church dedicated to Saint Louis began in the center of the Vichy resort. The architect of the building is Jean Lefort, the church was built in a neo-medieval style with elements of the Romanesque style of the region (general plan of the church, pediment mosaics), Burgundian Romanesque style (pilasters, transept flutes) and Gothic (façade rose). The stained glass windows in the choir were made by glassmaker Antoine Lusson, and depict members of the imperial family as saints: Saint Eugenie, Saint Hortense and Saint Napoleon. In 1914, frescoes by Alphonse Osbert glorifying St. Louis appeared in the church. The church is directly connected to the park of springs by the covered passage of Gibouin, completed in 1887 by the architect Antoine Persily.

Music kiosk

Kisok was built by the architect Charles Lecoeur in 1902; Emil Robert made the forged iron parts. In Vichy at the beginning of the 20th century. There were 7 kiosks, which emphasized the importance of music in the city, the “king of thermal spas.”

a selection of useful services and sites for the traveler.

The French city of Vichy is today known throughout the world primarily thanks to the cosmetics brand of the same name produced by the L'Oreal corporation. Usually this is the first association that comes to mind with this name, even to a person who has never been to France. However, once you delve a little deeper into history, a fascinating theme opens up about the rise and fall of a small resort town, located far from the popular and “hackneyed” tourist routes Fifth Republic.

The city of Vichy is located in the Auvergne region, considered one of the most little-known parts of the country to foreigners (and to many French people). The wild and inaccessible mountainous Central Massif stretches across the region; this is where it is located nature reserve volcanoes with more than 80 dormant ancient giants, the harsh appearance of which is incredibly impressive and makes you dream of conquering new peaks. The Auvergne soil feeds a huge number of underground mineral springs, thanks to which the region's thermal resorts and famous production of medicinal table water arose.

So where:

Vichy is located in the Allier department (named after the river of the same name that crosses the city), in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

How to get to Vichy

The most convenient way to travel around Auvergne is with a rented car. For example, even this famous city, like Vichy, is located several tens of kilometers from the major highways that cross France, and many cities in the region can only be reached along winding national roads, not to mention smaller attractions lost among the mountains, such as ancient castles or natural beauties.

If your goal is only a vacation at a thermal resort, and your plans do not include driving around the surrounding area, then in this case there is no problem - from Paris (with railway station Bercy) you can get to Vichy by direct Intercity train (travel time - 2 hours 58 minutes). This is the fastest option, but tickets must be purchased in advance, then they will be inexpensive.

In the form here you can find and buy online the bus and train tickets of European carriers that interest you using a very simple and convenient system IN RUSSIAN, with detailed description tariffs and conditions:

The nearest major airport to Vichy is 90 kilometers away, in the main city of the region, Clermont-Ferrand.

You can choose in advance and book a car for traveling around France here(instant comparison of offers, prices and conditions of the world's leading car rental companies, online booking confirmation and flexible conditions, discounts, super offers)

A little history

At the site of Vichy, back in ancient times, BC, the Gallo-Romans began to use mineral springs for treatment and healing. However, the first precise mention of a settlement called Vippiacus, which after many centuries, under the influence of various owners of these lands, finally transformed into Vichy, dates back to the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian (late 3rd century AD).

In the Middle Ages (XIV century), Vichy came into the possession of the Duchy of Bourbon (Bourbonnais), and in the 16th century (1527) - to the French crown. The slow flourishing of this “city on the waters” began already in the 16th century. Royals and aristocrats who sometimes visited Vichy almost universally noted the beneficial effects of hydrotherapy, but complained about the lack of decent infrastructure in this place. And the infrastructure was not slow to appear.

Around the end of the 18th century, the resort began to rapidly become fashionable, but the real boom came in the mid-19th century, when Emperor Napoleon III spent several seasons here in a row over five years. In the city, old hydropathic clinics were expanded and new ones were built, art salons were opened in which the best musicians and actors in Europe were invited to perform, landscape parks were laid out, befitting the level of noble holidaymakers. Naturally, the construction of a casino with a theater (opening in 1865) could not be accomplished without the accelerated construction. The surge of the second wave of urban planning occurred in Vichy at the turn of the 19th – 20th centuries, during the Belle Epoque (“Belle Epoque”). The appearance of the Opera and several large thermal complexes in the city center, as well as luxurious monumental hotels, dates back to this time. Before the First World War, Vichy literally basked in glory as a fashionable resort, then there was an understandable lull. After the war, holidaymakers slowly began to return, and the city managed to partially regain its lost ground in terms of the number of vacationers by the mid-1930s. However, the Second World War intervened and changed the fate of the city. During the German occupation, a collaborationist regime with the Nazis, called the “Vichy regime,” reigned in the city. But this is a completely different topic that is not directly related to tourism.

One way or another, the famous waters of Vichy survived all regimes, and until the 1950-1960s remained favorite place vacation for the rich, however, this period changed the composition of vacationers - the rulers of the African colonies of France and their numerous accompanying people frequented the city. When this wave subsided with the beginning of the decolonization process, Vichy, if not in decline, was certainly on the verge of it. It took several decades to recover as a popular holiday destination for wealthy citizens. However, alas, the resort was no longer able to return to its past.

Today it is a well-known, well-maintained, neat town on the banks of the Allier River, which has preserved historical monuments different eras, but... just one of the many balneological resorts in France. If you don’t know its history, once you get here, you can hardly imagine that the entire French nobility once walked along the alleys of Vichy. It’s funny that on the website of the Vichy Tourist Office, in the “How to get there” section, plane is listed as method number 1... with a note that a small airport 5 kilometers from Vichy accepts private jets. Echoes of past glory...

Where to stay in Vichy

If you are deliberately traveling to Vichy to visit health and spa treatments, you should choose appropriate hotels with thermal complexes (the best of them are at the end of the article). This is a wonderful, but rather expensive accommodation option. A good alternative can be private apartments in the city and its surroundings, and in spa complexes you can buy only those services that you need.

Sights of Vichy

For convenience, we provide here not just a list of Vichy attractions, but links to ready-made walking routes around the city, with a description of what you will see along them.

12 best attractions in Vichy

Palace of Congresses - Opera

A large casino, including a theater hall and cozy chamber salons for the nobility, was built in Vichy in 1865 (since 1995 - Vichy Palace of Congresses) on the initiative of Napoleon III. In 1900, the casino was expanded in its western part: an Opera House building appeared in the Art Nouveau style with 1,486 seats, the interior of which is striking in its luxury.

Passages and pedestrian streets Vichy

In the city center, in the quarter adjacent to the Park of Sources, there are many cozy restaurants with outdoor terraces and lively shopping streets, where all kinds of brands are presented, including expensive ones. What is important is that many boutiques here are open on Sundays and holidays, which in France is typical only for tourist cities and large resorts like Nice.

Hall of Sources and covered gallery in Park of Sources

A beautiful modernist building called the Hall of Springs in the Park around the Vichy Casino-Opera is a place where you can not only see the city’s springs, located on the site of an ancient medieval monastery of Celestian monks from the early 15th century, but also get the famous mineral water for free. In total, the Hall, built in 1903, has 5 springs, hot and cold, called Célestins, Lucas, Hôpital, Chomel and Grande Grille.

In the Park it is impossible not to appreciate the covered gallery (promenade) with a total length of 700 meters, which covered the monarchs and aristocrats walking from source to source during bad weather and allowed them to keep their clothes and shoes clean.

Large thermal center Thermes de Domes

It is located a few meters from the Hall of Sources. It was the most “luxurious” thermal center of Vichy at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries. In the 1930s it was reconstructed in a neo-Moorish style (the oriental dome of the spa looks a little strange, but it is what it is).

Chalet Napoleon III

The villa, built for the emperor (overlooking the Park of Springs) in the Swiss or English colonial style, was the resort home of Napoleon III for a short time - the sovereign did not like that the building in the very center of Vichy did not provide privacy for him and the court. However, the chalet has been preserved and is still maintained in decent condition.

A street with luxury villas built in different styles at the beginning of the 20th century

Buildings in neo-Venetian, Flemish, Gothic, classical and Art Nouveau styles are adjacent to each other and do not discord at all. They were mainly built to be rented out to wealthy vacationers. And in those days it was customary to relax on the waters for a long time.

Parc Napoleon III and Parc Kennedy

Founded under Napoleon III, the park is located along the Allier River embankment. Centuries-old trees, wide alleys and well-equipped beaches attract many townspeople here during hot weather. Napoleon Park smoothly flows into the Park named after American President Kennedy.

Promenade along the embankment and beaches on the lake

On the Quai des Alliers, between the historic restaurant La Rotonda and Parc Kennedy, there is a 1.5 kilometer promenade that takes you to Célestan Beach, which has excellent recreational facilities. A little explanation is needed here: the city of Vichy is crossed by the Allier River, which in the 20th century was blocked by a dam (its role is played by the Bridge of Europe), and the Allier Lake of the same name was formed as a place for residents to relax.

Celestan Spring Pavilion

An elegant building from 1908, where you can get free mineral water.

Church of Notre-Dame de Malade, adjacent to the Church of Saint-Blaise

Notre-Dame de Malade was built in 1714 on the site of the ancient chapel of the Dukes of Bourbon, and Saint-Blaise, which was built close to it, was built in the 1920s and 30s. In the church you can see a statue of the Black Madonna - an object of cult in Auvergne.

Music kiosk and horseshoe gallery

The 1902 gazebo, where musicians played during Vichy's golden age, still serves as a venue for the city orchestra from May to September. A covered gallery in the shape of a horseshoe with shops inside encircles the Hall of the Source of L'Hopital.

Follow this route on interactive map you can here

Other routes:

Thematic route “Thermal Vichy”

This is not a very long, compact route that passes by the most important symbols of Vichy - the thermal water sources.

Route around the lake and along the Allier River embankment

The best spa hotel in Vichy today is luxurious Vichy Celestins Spa Hotel 5* , located opposite the Springs Park and offering all types of luxury spa services and much more. Despite the high cost, it is better to book rooms in advance - it is very popular and often crowded. However, there is no shortage of first-class hotels in Vichy: you can choose between historical hotels in the very center of the city (for example, Aletti Palace 4 *), and ultra-modern spa complexes located a little away from the city noise, in the lap of nature.

You can find a complete list of all spa centers at the Vichy Tourist Office, where you can also book tickets for concerts that constantly take place in the city, the Opera, book any excursion around the city and the Auvergne region, and so on.

Elena Kurylenko

The resort town of Vichy is an extraordinarily beautiful place that has long been a vacation spot for French monarchs. Beautiful theaters and museums were built here for the nobility, and numerous parks were laid out. Vichy is also famous for its unique mineral thermal waters.

SPA programs of the Vichy Celestins Spa Hotel 5*

Vichy

Located in the very center of the country, resort town ok Vichy France has been known for several centuries. Even the ancient Romans, who settled in this area, appreciated the extraordinary properties of the local mineral thermal water. Today, Vichy thermal water is one of the most valuable sources in the world.

The Vichy resort gained particular popularity under the French king Henry the Fourth, who valued holidays in Vichy above other resort and medical places in France.

Emperor Napoleon also fell in love with the resort, thanks to whom holidays in Vichy acquired sophistication and luxury. It was under the emperor that the former settlement at the mineral springs turned into a respectable vacation spot for the entire European nobility.

Today it is one of the most beautiful cities in the country, it is even sometimes called the second Paris for its abundance of places cultural recreation and unusually beautiful parks. Today, the city of Vichy is not only a holiday destination, but also a large treatment center that uses the healing properties of the local mineral thermal water.

The unique thermal water of Vichy helps to cure a wide variety of diseases of the digestive system, it calms the nervous system, relieves fatigue and gives strength. In addition, in Vichy, treatment is also carried out with the aim of rejuvenating and improving the condition of the skin, since the optimally selected mineral composition of natural water is perfect for cosmetic procedures.

Location of Vichy

The beautiful city of Vichy is located in the very center of France, with the fairly large Allier River flowing through it. The resort has a convenient location, since it can be easily reached from the country's capital, Paris, and the journey by train will take no more than 3.5 hours. The city is home to theaters (including an opera house) and museums. In addition, here you can try your hand at some aristocratic sport, for example, golf, tennis, horse racing. For the convenience of vacationers, an airfield was also built here where private planes can land.

How to get there?

Departures daily from Gare de Lyon in Paris passenger train, which passes through Vichy. The journey will take about 3.5 hours, and the cost will be 50 euros in a second-class carriage and 70 euros in a first-class carriage. On vacation you can stay in the Sofitel, Novotel or Ibis hotels; the average room rate is 20 euros per day per person.

Wellness centers in Vichy

All Vichy France hotels, as a rule, are also health centers. The most popular health and wellness center is called Les Celestins, which is a hotel connected by a covered walkway to a spa center. A cosmetology department is also open here. total area"Celestine" about 5 sq. km.

France, the resort of Vichy has a developed hotel infrastructure. You can stop here, in particular, at the thermal center “House” (Centre Thermal des Dômes). Both medical and cosmetology rooms are open here, where you can get help with various diseases, as well as simply improve your health and have a great rest. Some of the most popular procedures with mineral water among the guests of the “House” include more than ten types of showers, hydromassage, bubble and mud baths.

In Vichy, treatment can also be obtained at the Kalou Clinic, located in the very center of the city, where they specialize in gastroenterology.

France Vichy resort is simply saturated mineral springs, and water from 6 wells can be used for drinking. As for thermal waters, there are sources with a temperature range from 16 to 75 degrees. Getting to the mineral wells will not be difficult, since Vichy France hotels are located in close proximity from them.

Excursions around Vichy in your free time

In the area of ​​the resort town of Vichy there are many attractions that you simply must see when visiting this extraordinary region.

About an hour and a half drive from Vichy, there is a unique park on the territory of which there are several dormant volcanoes. Opened in 2003, every season it attracts many tourists who dream of visiting inside the crater. You can appreciate the beauty of this park by coming here on an excursion that will take the whole day (from 10 am to 6 pm).

In the vicinity of Vichy there are two medieval castle with beautiful parks and unique collections of antique household items. The castles of Busse and Olterib, which used to be the residence of French monarchs, are now open to tour groups. In addition, in Olterib it will be interesting to look at the unique collection of antique carriages.

The fortified city of Charu, located 140 km from Vichy, is also interesting to visit. Today this is unusual beautiful village France has become home to numerous artisans and reenactors who live according to the laws and technical capabilities of the 18th century. There are excursions to numerous museums here, you can see a soap factory, an ancient factory that produced mustard and oil, and the San Pursan wine cellars.

The city of Vichy is an unusually beautiful resort town, which for a long time was a vacation spot for the monarchs of France. For the most notable people, magnificent museums and theaters were built here, and picturesque green park areas were laid out. In addition, Vichy is famous for its unique thermal mineral waters.

General information about the city

The city in France of Vichy is known all over the world thanks to the famous cosmetics brand of the same name, produced by the L'Oreal corporation. This is the first association that arises in your head when you mention the name of the city.

A deeper examination of the history of the city's development reveals interesting topic the ups and downs of a small town located at a distance from the more popular and tourist routes in France.

Location

The beautiful and cozy city of Vichy France is located in the center of the country. The rather large Allier River flows through it.

The resort town has a fairly convenient location, as it is easily accessible from Paris. Travel time by train takes only 3.5 hours. An airfield for private planes has also been built here, which creates additional convenience for vacationers.

A brief history of the popularity of the resort

Located in the very center of the state, the resort town has been known for several centuries. The extraordinary miraculous properties of the local water were appreciated by the ancient Romans who had settled in this paradise. Today, the thermal water of the town of Vichy (France) is one of the most valuable sources in the world.

The resort became especially popular during the reign of the French king Henry IV, who preferred to relax here rather than in other medical resorts in France. Napoleon also fell in love with the city. Thanks to him, some luxury and sophistication appeared in these places. Former village with mineral springs, it was under Napoleon that it was transformed into a respectable place for recreation for all the nobility of Europe.

Features of the mineral resort

The mineral resort of Vichy France is located on the banks of the river. Allier, in the northern territory of the Auvergne region and in the heart of the "Province of the Bourbons" (Bourbon).

In the 19th century it was considered the most fashionable French resort. The Great Hydropathic Bath is the largest mineral baths in Europe. Unique water helps to recover from diseases of the digestive system, has a calming effect on the nervous system, perfectly relieves fatigue and gives new strength.

Treatment in Vichy is also carried out to improve and rejuvenate the condition of the skin, since the mineral composition of the water, optimally selected, is suitable for certain cosmetic procedures.

In addition, the city of Vichy is one of the most attractive cities in the country, sometimes called the second Paris for its large number of magnificent parks and picturesque recreation areas.

Sights of Vichy (France)

There are many must-see attractions in and around the city.

One unique park is located an hour and a half drive from Vichy. On its territory there are several volcanoes, although they are dormant. The park, opened in 2003, annually attracts many tourists who dream of visiting inside the crater. A tour of this area takes the whole day.

And at the San Necter cheese factory, located near Vichy, tourists are truly delighted. Here it is interesting to visit the cellars in the rock (in grottoes and caves), with huge heads of cheese stored in them. The eight-hour excursion ends with a cheese tasting.

The surroundings of the French city of Vichy are also decorated with wonderful architectural structures. Here you can see two medieval castles (Olterib and Busse) with parks and collections of antiques. Previously they were the residence of monarchs, and are now open to excursion groups. In addition, Olterib has a unique collection of antique carriages.

140 kilometers from the resort city is the fortified city of Sharu. This is a fabulously beautiful French village, home to artisans who live in it according to the technical capabilities and laws of the 13th century. There are museums, an old factory (producing oil and mustard), a soap factory and San Pursan wine cellars.

In the city of Vichy itself there are museums and theaters, including an opera house. You can also test your strength in aristocratic sports (horse racing, golf, tennis).

In conclusion about the Vichy regime in France

The Vichy regime, or Vichy France, was a period during the occupation of the country by Nazi Germany that arose in Southern France after the fall of Paris in 1940. This regime lasted from July 1940 until the complete liberation of France by the Allies. Its name comes from the name of the city we described, where in the summer of that year the National Assembly decided to transfer power to Marshal A.F. Pétain.