The Haut-Allier Gorges take center stage

Nestled between wild rivers, picturesque villages, and spectacular landscapes, the Haut-Allier Gorges region appeals not only to nature lovers but also inspires filmmakers. Several French films have found the ideal setting here, between historical heritage and raw beauty. Follow in the footsteps of these film shoots that have left their mark on the region!

🪖 La Victoire des vaincus (2001)

When Villeneuve-d'Allier becomes a village under the Occupation

The historical TV movie "La Victoire des vaincus", directed by Nicolas Picard for France 3, set its cameras on the banks of the Allier, particularly in Villeneuve d'Allier, immersed in the atmosphere of 1940. This small village was transformed into a wartime setting to represent a commune in Franche-Comté occupied by the Germans. The commune welcomed the crew into its streets and rural surroundings, providing an authentic backdrop for the story of these five children in improvised resistance.

🛡️ Le Frère du Guerrier (2002)

An abbey courtyard at the heart of the plot

Pierre Jolivet set up his camera in the majestic courtyard of Pébrac Abbey to shoot the film "Le Frère du Guerrier". This historical epic, featuring renowned actors such as Vincent Lindon, Guillaume Canet, François Berléand, and Nicolas Dontet, draws its power from this place steeped in spirituality and mystery. A visit to the abbey allows you to immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of the film.

🥾 Saint-Jacques... La Mecque (2005)

On the Way to Compostela

Coline Serreau chose the domaine du Sauvage in Chanaleilles and the charming village of Grèzes as the setting for the dramatic comedy "Saint-Jacques... La Mecque". Following pilgrims with profiles as varied as they are endearing, played by Muriel Robin, Artus de Penguern, Jean-Pierre Darroussin, Pascal Légitimus, and Marie Bunel, the film highlights the magnificent landscapes crossed by the Way of St. James. An invitation to walk... and to reflect.

👻 Derrière les murs (2010)

Lavoûte-Chilhac, setting for a fantasy thriller

Lavoûte-Chilhac, the pearl of the Haut-Allier region, and Blassac were the locations for the filming of "Behind the Walls", a psychological thriller with a touch of fantasy. Directed by Julien Lacombe and Pascal Sid, the movie features Laetitia Casta in a dark and mysterious role, alongside Thierry Neuvic, Jacques Bonnaffé, and Roger Dumas. With its stone bridge, narrow streets, and old buildings, the village provides an enchanting as well as disturbing setting, perfect for the mood of the film.

This production marks a turning point in French cinema, as it is the very first feature-length fiction film shot in 3D in France.

🎒 La Nouvelle Guerre des Boutons (2011)

A return to childhood in Lavoûte-Chilhac

Four years later, Lavoûte-Chilhac was back in the spotlight for "La Nouvelle Guerre des Boutons", directed by Christophe Barratier. This revisited classic brings together a stellar cast: Laetitia Casta, Guillaume Canet, Kad Merad, Gérard Jugnot, as well as young actors Jean Texier and Ilona Bachelier. The village becomes the setting for the most famous children's battles in French cinema, in a tender and modern version of this timeless story.

🎬 In the footsteps of cinema

Make the most of your visit to the Haut-Allier Gorges to follow in the footsteps of the films that were shot here. It's a wonderful way to discover the region in a different light, through the eyes of the directors and artists who captured its beauty.

What if your next trip could also be a movie to be experienced in the great outdoors?