Welcome to Chibotte d’Odile, a fascinating glimpse into the past nestled within the picturesque Dolaison vale in the Haute-Loire region of France. As you explore this area, you’ll be stepping back in time to the 19th century, when these unique dry stone vineyard huts, known locally as ‘chibottes,’ were integral to the lives of the Ponots, or the inhabitants of Puy-en-Velay. Originally referred to as ‘tsabones,’ these huts were built by the Ligurians for the purpose of shelter and storage during the vineyard era. The name ‘chibottes’ came into use in the 20th century, thanks to the research of local scholar Albert Boudon-Lashermes.
The restoration and development of these historical structures have been a long-term project, with significant efforts beginning in the 1970s. However, it was only in the first decade of the 21st century that the restoration gained momentum, with the municipality of Vals-près-le-Puy acquiring the land and beginning the process of bringing these huts back to life. By 2011, the ‘Chibottes Trail’ was inaugurated, allowing visitors to walk through history along a 6-kilometer trail that meanders through this scenic landscape.
In 2016, the Dolaison gorges and the Chibottes vale were officially listed as a protected site, recognized for their outstanding natural beauty and historical significance. This status not only preserves the area’s unique geological and ecological features but also highlights the cultural heritage encapsulated within the chibottes. In 2023, efforts continued with the restoration of the ‘Chieftain’s Hut,’ a large hut affectionately dubbed ‘the Town Hall’ by locals, which became a highlight of the tourist circuit.
As you walk through this trail, imagine the life of the vineyard workers who once took refuge within these stone walls, tending to the fertile land that stretched across this picturesque valley. The chibottes are not merely relics of the past; they are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of those who shaped this land. Let the stories of the past guide you as you explore this remarkable landscape, a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine.
