🏘️ The Village of Saoû 🌳

The village of Saoû, pronounced "sou", is nestled at the foot of the Roc and the majestic perched syncline of the Saoû forest, located 11 km from the campsite, and populated by around 570 inhabitants.

In the Middle Ages, the village and its castle were perched on the Roc, the emblematic rock culminating at an altitude of 501 meters. Further down, the village of Les Églises developed around the fortified abbey of Saint-Thiers, founded in the 9th century by the Augustinians. It is to these monks that we owe the mills on the Vèbre and the numerous canals of the irrigation network crossing the village.

On June 30, 1944, Saoû, a martyr village, was bombed by nine German planes, destroying a large part of the village. This event, which left 15 dead and 18 injured, was in retaliation for the help given by some residents to the Perrin maquis, one of the first in the region, set up in the Saoû forest.

The Saoû market is a must-see event in the region. Held every Saturday morning, it offers a wide range of local products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to Picodon, farm products and local crafts. It is the ideal opportunity to taste the flavors of the region and meet the producers.

Every year, on the 3rd weekend of July, the village hosts the Fête du Picodon, a celebration in honor of the famous PDO goat cheese. This festival is marked by tastings, entertainment, concerts and the traditional Picodon competition.

In addition to its market and festivities, Saoû is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, ideal for hiking and walking. Climbing enthusiasts can enjoy more than 750 routes, ranging from 3b to 8b, and from 30 to 300 meters in height. Those who prefer to relax can unwind on the terraces of local cafes and restaurants

The history of Saoû has always been inseparable from that of its forest.

Source : climbingaway.fr (escalade), www.fetedupicodon.com et www.museedelaresistanceenligne.org