Distance from the campsite by car 50km (50 min travel time)
About Vichy
Vichy is a town in central France, with less than 30,000 inhabitants. The center exudes tranquility and it is located on the Allier River that flows through the city and it is just above Clermont-Ferrant. The town is forever linked to World War II during which it was the capital of Vichy-France. A black period in French history. Originally Clermont-Ferrant was designated the capital of the Free Zone, but this industrial city did not offer enough hotel space for the politicians and officials. Vichy was therefore preferred with its spa and much more hotel capacity. Today, therefore, Vichy is still well visited by tourists. It is also well worth a visit!
Spa
Because of its hot springs, Vichy has been a spa resort since ancient times. Beauty and healing have long been central to Vichy. So do stomach patients, kidney patients and people with low blood pressure who benefit from a drinking cure in Vichy. But even if you fortunately have nothing wrong with you, it is worth visiting the spa yourself.
Other sights
The war past is not much remembered. There is no museum in which these years are explained and that perhaps says something about the difficult relationship with this past. However, there is a city tour available at the Tourist Office about the war years which includes a stop at the former seat of government at Hotel du Parc.
You can also go to the Opéra Vichy, a beautiful example of Art Nouveau. Built in 1903 and one of the operas that mattered in the 20th century until well into the 1960s. The opera then fell into disrepair, a fire even broke out, but since 1995 it has been restored to its former glory and also houses a museum. For programming, visit the opera’s website.
