Intoduction

Vichy ia a spa town famous for its natural springs, in fact people come from all over the world to sample the water fresh from the spring. Vichy, situated on the northern edge of the Auvergne, in the heart of Bourbon country, is noted for its sparkling waters (said to alleviate liver and stomach ailments). During the 1980s, the hotels and baths of Vichy were modernized to keep up with the times and other baths of France. The city's current reputation for health and relaxation has been aided greatly by the Perrier craze that has swept most of the world. The Perrier Company has a contract to bottle Vichy water for sale elsewhere and also runs the city's major attractions. Vichy is a sports and recreation centre, with a casino, theaters, regattas, horse racing, and golf. A promenade with covered walks, the Parc des Sources is the center of Vichy's fashionable life, which is at its peak from May to the end of September.

Information

The tourist office is in 19 Rue du Parc. For full details on cultural and sporting activities you will do well to obtain a copy of "Quinzaine a Vichy" or "Vichy Mensuel". These are 2 magazines with lists of whats on in Vichy and are available free of charge from the tourist office.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Vichy is on foot, by car or by bike. You can hire bikes from 48 Blvd Gambeta and rent a car from 6 Ave de Gramont.

Eating and Drinking

In terms of eating out Hotels tend to act as reaturants in Vichy. There are many cafes to be found at the inter section between rue Clemenceau and Rue de Paris. There is a supermarket for self caterers on 16 rue Clemenceau. Nightlife in Vichy is somewhat limited but there are some cafes and bars around. A good way of spending one evening would be to head down to the Vichy Opera House where you can watch ballets and orchestral concerts. The Italian style decor is amazing to see.

Don't Miss

A visit to the Parc des Sources is a must. Hee you can sit and read or if you are daring enough queue for a cupful of water from the spring. Legend has it that each of the springs cures a different ailment if drunk on the spot. Watch out as some do taste quite foul. Try and make it to The "Thermes de Vichy" thermal baths, here you can get wet massages and foot sprays. Also The Central Thermal des Domes is a must for all fitness and health needs.