Le Puy-en-Velay: A Hilltop Crusade
Le Puy-en-Velay, France is another one of the country’s small medieval town well known for its church. Thus, it has become one of the leading pilgrimage sites in France. The stonewalled and brick-roofed architecture, streets lined up with flowers, and the few heritage sites are what Le Puy-en-Velay offers its visitors. The town is accessible if you will take a flight to Le Puy – Loudes Airprt (LPY) from Paris-Orly Airport (ORY).
Best Time to Visit
Like the rest of the country, it has an oceanic climate. But due to Le Puy-en-Velay, France’s location, it tends to have cooler and chillier weather than the other French towns/cities. Summers are terribly short, only lasting for a month or two -- between late June to early August. And while these are the ideal months to visit the town, expect a high volume of tourists and Le Puy-en-Velay hotels to be more expensive. You can also come to town during winter as there are several ski resorts to spend your time on.
What to Do & Area Attractions
You have to take 268 steps up the stairs (and another 268 back down) to visit the mighty Chapel of Saint Michael ded l’Aiguilhe. The Cathedral of Le Puy is also only accessible the same way – by hundreds of steps. Feed your mind with archeological, natural sciences, and technological knowledge when you go to Crozatier Museum.
Some of the Le Puy-en-Velay hotels you will find during your pilgrim are iBis Budget Le Puy-en-Velay, Relais Du Val Vert, and B&B Hotel Le Puy-En-Velay. The latter serves a complimentary buffet breakfast to its guests. All are located within the town proper.