Way of CompostelaFamily plus

Museum Overview

The Velay-Express takes you on a steam train journey at a leisurely pace, from Raucoules to St-Agrève, via Tence and Le Chambon-sur-Lignon. Discover the Velay plateau, the Lignon Gorges, and their unspoiled landscapes on an authentic, timeless trip.

Between Ardèche and Haute Loire, the steam train will transport you through meadows and forests, overlook the Lignon and allow you to discover the vast expanses of the Plateau while catching a glimpse of the mythical Mont Mézenc and Gerbier de Jonc.

Themed trains complement the regular services: Egg Hunt Train, Wild West Train, Halloween Train, Santa Claus Train...

Timetables, circulation days and prices can be consulted on the website www.velay-express.fr and in the local Tourist Offices.

Free bicycle transport by reservation on board the train.

Free museum at Raucoules station.

Pets allowed : yes

Information regarding animals : Well-behaved dogs on leashes are accepted on our trains

Other details

Minimum number of people for groups: 15

Headshot

With its railway line reaching an altitude of 1062 meters, the Velay-Express is the highest steam train in France. It winds its way for 27 kilometers between Raucoules, Tence, Le Chambon-sur-Lignon and Saint-Agrève.

Gift Card

on demand

Sustainable tourism

The association and its volunteers are doing everything they can to preserve this railway heritage. Each year, the number of passengers continues to grow, allowing them to discover the local treasures. Thanks to bicycle-equipped carriages, it promotes sustainable transportation by connecting the Via Fluvia to the Dolce Via. On board, a shop showcases local products and artisanal craftsmanship.

Comfort and amenities

Services

  • Pet Friendly
  • Coach access
  • Motorhomes allowed
  • Shop
  • Tourist documentation
  • Private service
  • Accessible by stroller

Equipment

  • Cycling Parking
  • Free parking
  • Coach parking
  • Parking
  • Charging stations for electric vehicles
  • Shaded Picnic area.
  • Toilet

Activities

  • Animation

Languages

  • English
  • French

Documentation available in:

  • French

Rates / opening

Prices

Adult: 16,50 to 22,50 €
Child: from €13,50 to €19,50 (Child aged 4 to 12)
Group adults: from €15 to €20,50.

Free for under 4 years.
Group rate from 15 people.

Payment method

  • Cheque
  • Bank / credit card
  • Cash
  • Classic Holiday Vouchers
  • Contactless payment
  • Online payment

Opening

From 08/04 to 16/04/2026, open Wednesdays until 17:30pm. Open Sundays until 17:30pm. Closed Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

From 01/05 to 12/05/2026, open Sundays until 17:30pm. Closed Monday to Saturday.

From 14/05 to 15/05/2026, Thursday until 17:30pm. Friday until 17:30pm. Closed.

From 16/05 to 13/07/2026, open Sundays until 17:30pm. Closed Monday to Saturday.

From 15/07 to 31/08/2026, open Wednesdays until 17:30pm. Thursdays until 17:30pm. Sundays until 17:30pm. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

From 01/09 to 26/10/2026, open Sundays until 17:30pm. Closed Monday to Saturday.

From 19/12 to 21/12/2026, Monday until 17:30pm. Saturday until 17:30pm. Sunday until 17:30pm. Closed.

Groups

Groups accepted : from 15 to 250 people