The granite Monts du Forez, in Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park, form a ridge some 45km long, separating the valleys in the direction of the Dore River from those in the direction of the Loire River. Unspoiled thanks to their isolated position, the Forez mountains offer nature lovers a treasure trove of rare flora and fauna, among which butterflies found in peatbogs and some 300 species of plants, many of which are protected.