Thiers is world-famous for its production of Sabatier knives, with master cutlers working in the locality since the Middle Ages. The town is situated in the Auvergne’s Puy de Dome district amongst the Massif Central’s towering volcanic peaks. Car hire in Thiers is available from six companies, including Argus and Sixt.

The steep streets of Thiers meander upwards to the medieval Old Town at the top of the hill, overlooking the Durolle river valley and the fertile plains beyond. Fourteenth century half-timbered houses with stone doorways and original interiors have bridges between their upper floors and those on the other side of the street.

On the river banks are many water mills, used until 1976 to power the grindstones used in knife manufacture. The Lyonnet Mill has been maintained and is worth a visit, as is the Museum of Cutlery with its display of knives. St Genes Church was rebuilt by monks in the 11th century from a Roman original.

Shopping in the area is perhaps best done in the nearby towns of Vichy and Clement-Ferrard, after arranging cheap car hire in Thiers. Most restaurants in the area serve its delicious traditional peasant dishes, with cabbage, pork, potatoes, salted ham, dried sausages and locally grown green lentils the main ingredients.

Car rental in Thiers ensures a comfortable daytrip to Vichy to try out the thermal spa, visit the castle and palace and marvel at the lunar landscape views of the nearby volcanic peaks. The town of Clement-Ferrard, just along the valley from Thiers, is known for the magnificence of its religious buildings.