The elegant spa resort of Royat, located west of Clermont-Ferrand, specialises in the treatment of osteoarthritis and cardio-arterial diseases.
It possesses a recreational well-being and spa centre, Royatonic, where the emphasis is on recharging your batteries through thermal baths, massage jets, steam rooms, saunas and jacuzzis.
Royat is a town of Puy-de-Dôme, in region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a few kilometers south west of Clermont-Ferrand.
The town was created in 1829, the 6.6 square kilometers of its territory then being detached from Chamalières remains its neighbor to the northeast.
Dominated south by the Puy de Gravenoire which rises to 821 meters, largely wooded, the city is located on the foothills of the volcanos overlooking Clermont-Ferrand, while already in the plain of Limagne.
It is the richness of its thermal springs already appreciated by Romans that enabled the development of Royat the nineteenth century, especially under the leadership of Napoleon III who visited the site in 1862 and the rise of dopa station.
Known particularly to treat heart disease, the baths are now also appreciated for the care wellness. Rich in urban planning and heritage of a typical spas (baths, hotels, casino...) Royat with over 4900 people present to spa guests, tourists and visitors a diversified leisure offer. An essential stop in the immediate vicinity of the capital of the Auvergne and other major tourist centers (Vulcania).
Excluding sites and buildings related to his vocation spa, Royat has heritage elements that you should not overlook.
A city tour may well include the ancient Roman roads still visible on Crest Road overlooking the city or, at the Puy Chateix, the site of a castle destroyed in the eighth century by Pepin the Short.
On the religious level, the Saint-Léger dates from the eleventh century. It served an important priory of the abbey of Mozac. Romanesque style, one notices its fortifications showing his power and that of the religious who had it. The square apse, the crypt under the chorus are also characteristic. However, if one still distinguishes the north part of the priory, the cloister disappeared. The church in the massive, rebuilt several times, was classified a historical monument in 1862 under his sculptures in particular.
Neo-classical style, the Sacred Heart Church is much later and was built in 1894 in the village, near the Spa, to meet the influx of spa guests. We observe the ancient inspiration on the front panel, such as triangular pediment supported by fluted columns and Corinthian. Moreover, the beautifully crafted stained glass windows are signed master Lucien Clermont Chestnut.
In terms of spa heritage, the activity has been revived in the first half of the nineteenth century, its construction ranges from 1850 to 1920.
Modern baths were opened in 1856, designed by architect Agis Ledru which multiplied the references to the ancient origins of the resort and Water Royat: monumental arches, Ionic columns, statues. Two wings dedicated to care symbolize the separation of men and women. Over the decades, alterations and additions were made as the extension built by Louis Jarrier in 1913-1914 in an Italianate style or layout of the stained glass windows of the three major central pavilion.
From that time, just before the First War, are actually highlight the Pavillon Saint-Mart (topped with a dome, it gave access to the covered bathroom cabins a roof terrace but the building is no longer operational since 1980) and mosaic (Briare enamel background and stoneware).
All baths are protected as historical monuments and continues to welcome spa guests. Information +33 4 73 29 51 51.
Besides the remains of Roman baths uncovered in the nineteenth century (pool, terraces) are also entered the station and the casino, since had to entertain between baths and care!
The first casino was built in 1874 in neo-Norman style, red brick and wood. Then known as "the chalet", it includes rooms dedicated to games, banquet halls and a theater inaugurated in 1875. A new facility replaces in 1921. Its facades are decorated with antique motifs alternating with modern decor. It features antique chamber with curved arches and a row of columns. The casino offers games room, restaurant and theater now belongs to a large group specialized. Information at +33 4 73 29 52 52.
We should also mention the hotels and buildings adjacent to both thermal baths, on the boulevard including polycythemia vera, with elegant facades (nineteenth, early twentieth century) and some Belle Epoque villas.
Thematic courses have been designed to explore the major sights of the resort. Guided tours are also offered in season. Contact the Tourist Office on +33 4 73 29 74 70.
For culture, in addition to two cozy rooms throughout the year for art exhibitions (information on +33 4 73 29 50 80), Royat features an auditorium, L'Avant-C, in the extended and varied program (information in +33 4 73 29 50 80) and a museum. It presents the history of the city (its thermal vocation initiated the Second Empire, its crafts) via number of documents and works of art. Open from May to September from Tuesday to Saturday. Information +33 4 73 29 98 18.
Regarding sports and leisure "nature", the center uses thermoludic Royatonic rich water gushing springs and caves to either therapeutic vocations but for the well-being (baths, Jacuzzis, care...). Contact the +33 4 73 28 58 90.
For walks, besides the park next to the baths, arboretum Royat planted on 41 hectares and botanical garden test Charade initiated in 2007 appear very pleasant and informative. more extensive hikes, however, can be considered including the green hills above the town. Panoramic views guaranteed! Maps and information +33 4 73 29 74 70.
For athletes, finally, a multi-sports platform and tennis courts are open to the Breuil complex (short reservation +33 7 70 02 25 87 or June 24 54 April 60).
As for the bowling Tholet, it has five tracks.
Golf Royat Charade for his part, was laid in 1930. It offers a 9 hole 2100 m long and has the distinction of having 18 starts, which can be covered in the form of return.
Drawing on a hilly landscape, golf is popular for its views of the volcanos. It also has a course "compact" 4 holes for beginners or advanced players wishing to improve their technique little game Price. From 38 to 43 euros. Information +33 4 73 35 73 09.
Finally, ideal for families with children, the park Charade Adventure includes a ropes course. Contact the +33 6 82 50 44 67.
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