Auvergne is full of hiking trails amidst volcanoes, mountains, and lakes. You can also stroll through its towns and mountain villages. The Route des Châteaux d'Auvergne adds a historical touch to the region's hikes. Throughout your walks, be sure to taste Auvergne's culinary specialties and admire the region's unique landscapes, both in summer and winter.
Hikes with breathtaking landscapes
Photo Bastien Jourfier
The sunsets over the Chaîne des Puys, the volcanic range of Auvergne, rival those of tropical paradise beaches. Each evening, you’ll witness grand and unique spectacles.
From the summits of the volcanoes, the view will leave you speechless. Each volcano offers different perspectives, each more beautiful than the last. You’ll be amazed!
The region's lakes are also surrounded by incredible landscapes. The colors are surprising and will reveal a different, unique setting in every season.
Escapes among the volcanoes
Photo Bastien Jourfier
Who hasn’t dreamed of walking on a volcano?
The Chaîne des Puys consists of 80 volcanoes and stretches over about 32 km. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The must-see volcano when visiting Auvergne is, of course, the Puy de Dôme. You can reach the summit on foot via the Chemin des Muletiers or by shuttle. Once at the top, you won’t regret it…
Among others, Puy Mary, Puy de Sancy, Puy de Pariou, Puy de la Vache, and Plomb du Cantal guarantee magnificent panoramas.
Winter hikes
Photo Bastien Jourfier
In winter, Auvergne offers a stunning white landscape. From Sancy to Super Besse, Mont-Dore, Lioran, or Les Estables, hikes will transport you to another world.
Strap on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and walk through the powder on the summits of the volcanoes.
Hikes around lakes and through Auvergne’s gorges
Photo Bastien Jourfier
Nestled among the volcanoes, Auvergne’s lakes create a unique setting. Lac Chambon, Lac Pavin, Lac du Guéry, Gour de Tazenat, and many more… are worth discovering in summer and winter.
Even without climbing to the summits, you can feel transported in the Gorges de l’Artière, Gorges de l’Allier, Gorges d’Avèze, Gorges de la Sioule… and the list goes on! You’ll be immersed in the heart of nature, with its waterfalls, rivers, and ever-stunning landscapes.
Walks through Auvergne’s towns
Photo Bastien Jourfier
Clermont-Ferrand, with its Gothic cathedral, is a must-see. The full name of the cathedral is Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, and it is entirely built from Volvic lava stone. Its black color catches the eye and piques curiosity. Construction began in the mid-13th century and was completed in the 19th century. During your visit, you’ll discover unique paintings and magnificent stained glass.
After visiting the cathedral, you can stroll through Clermont-Ferrand’s historic center. The small streets, filled with restaurants and boutique shops, are utterly charming. You’ll arrive at Place de Jaude, the main square in the center, featuring the famous statue of Vercingétorix.
Vichy is the city of waters. For a day or weekend of relaxation and wellness, this is the place to go! It’s a renowned spa town where Napoleon himself took treatments. In Vichy, you can enjoy the prestigious Opera, the racetrack, a golf course, and many parks and gardens. Additionally, the city center features luxurious neighborhoods, as well as shops and restaurants…
A major pilgrimage site, Le Puy-en-Velay is one of the starting points of the Camino de Santiago. You can’t miss the statue of Notre-Dame de France, perched atop the Rocher Corneille. For those brave enough to climb to the top, the view of the city is breathtaking. The Romanesque cathedral Notre-Dame is also a must-see when visiting this town.
Strolls through charming old villages
Photo Bastien Jourfier
Auvergne is home to some of the most beautiful villages in France.
The medieval village of Montpeyroux, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers an incredible view of the Puy de Dôme. Once you pass through the 14th-century fortified gate, you can visit the 12th-century keep and wander the streets lined with ancient stone houses. You’ll also see the Romanesque church, which dates back to the 16th century.
Salers will transport you to the heart of the Middle Ages and then to the Renaissance. The village still retains its medieval remnants, including its two fortified gates: the Beffroi Gate and the Martille Gate. The village church is worth visiting during your stay in Salers. You’ll see a life-size 15th-century Entombment of Christ. Additionally, at the end of the 15th century, turreted mansions were built in the village, taking you back to the Renaissance era.
The village of Usson sits atop a volcanic peak. This charming village, made up of old houses, offers a breathtaking view of the Chaîne des Puys. The village was home to Queen Margot (first wife of Henry IV) during her exile. The queen left her mark on the village, and a trail allows you to relive this era.
The list of Auvergne’s most beautiful villages is long, and to name just a few, don’t hesitate to visit Saint-Saturnin, Besse, Saint-Floret, Arlempdes, Blesle, Lavaudieu, Pradelles…
The Route des Châteaux d'Auvergne
Photo Bastien Jourfier
Auvergne’s castles are a must-visit during a stay in the region. Auvergne has about forty castles. This other facet of the region offers a historical and architectural heritage that will interest both young and old.
Among others, the Château de Murol is a 12th-century fortress located at an altitude of 1,000 meters. Visiting this castle immerses you in the world of Lord Guillaume during the Middle Ages. The shows and actors will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time!
The Château d’Anjony is a 15th-century building. Nestled in mountainous nature, this castle offers a historical tour. You’ll see decorations preserved from various periods of the castle’s life.
The Château de Val is a 15th-century castle. One of the best-preserved castles, it is surrounded by the Lac de Bort-les-Orgues. It offers a magnificent view of the Haute-Dordogne valley. At night, the castle’s colors reflect on the lake, creating a unique spectacle! In addition to the castle tour, you can admire an exhibition of paintings by renowned artists.
Taste Auvergne’s culinary specialties during your hikes
Let’s face it, Auvergnats love cheese. The main dishes to try in the region are indeed cheese-based: Aligot, truffade… But there’s something for everyone! The Puy lentils, certified AOP, can be used in various recipes. The potée auvergnate, where vegetables simmer for hours, is a perfect dish to keep you warm all winter!
But don’t forget the essential culinary element during your vacation in Auvergne: cheese! Bleu d’Auvergne, Saint-Nectaire, Cantal, Fourme d’Ambert, Salers… The list goes on! Don’t hesitate to venture into small mountain villages, such as Saint-Nectaire, to buy cheese directly from the source.
