Located in the Auvergne region of central France, the town of Montlucon is situated northwest of Clermont-Ferrand on the Cher River. The old town here (also known as the upper town) is perched on a hill and is home to le chateau des ducs de Bourbon and a variety of other buildings that date to the 15th and 16th centuries.

The church of St. Pierre located in Montlucon dates all the way back to the 12th century, while the church of Notre Dame was built during the 14th century. Be sure to reserve a rental car for your trip in order to have an easy way to explore the rest of the region as well, as it is well-known for its dormant volcanoes, skiing, farming, mining, Roquefort blue cheese and pristine spring water, among a variety of other attractions. The landscape here is quite dramatic, with deep river valleys and rocky gorges that rise more than 2000 meters above sea level, only to drop suddenly, giving way to magnificent forests.