This lovely river flows down from the Mont Dore, among rocky gorges guarded by twin fortresses from the twelfth century. Nearer to Ebreuil, and the Camping de la Filature, it widens and moves more peacefully. In July and August it is warm enough and clean enough for really enjoyable swimming (the water quality is checked regularly).
	The Sioule valley is well known in the area as a place to relax, and it has plenty of restaurants. Even so, it is still fairly free of tourists. There are several lakes in the area where one can picnic and swim. Besserves, just over an hour away, has a sailing centre with very reasonable prices.