Alert
Alerts
Croix de Ternant - Hike from the Goules parking lot
1 alert on this circuit
Visitor alert
The area around the Goules parking lot and the adjoining hiking trails are very popular in summer. To preserve the sensitive natural environments of the Chaîne des Puys, it is essential to stay on the marked paths and not to cut through pastures or forest areas. Dogs must be kept on a leash to respect local wildlife.
Description
A family trail through woods and pastures, with superb views of the Auvergne volcanoes and the Chaîne des Puys. From the Ternant cross, the panorama opens up to Clermont-Ferrand, Limagne and the Forez mountains.
On this easy trail through woods and pastures, hikers enjoy numerous views of the Auvergne volcanoes and the Chaîne des Puys. For the more motivated, we recommend an off-circuit route that takes you as far as the Sarcoui cave and the Puy des Goules, with a steeper climb that is rewarded by superb panoramic views.
Departure point: Les Goules parking lot, direction "Monlachat".
Difficulty: very easy (more demanding only for the off-course to Sarcoui and puy des Goules).
The trail is also suitable for snowshoeing in snowy weather, offering a winter atmosphere ideal for families and beginners.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Additional information
Tips for the photographer
The route offers fine views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Auvergne volcanoes, especially at the edge of the forest, where openings in the landscape capture the silhouette of the puy de Pariou and the puy des Goules. From the Ternant cross, the panorama stretches out over Clermont-Ferrand, Limagne and the Forez mountains: an ideal spot at sunrise or sunset to play with the relief and warm light.
Sustainable tourism
To preserve the open landscapes and sensitive environments around the Croix de Ternant, please adopt the right gestures: take the Volcans shuttle bus in season to limit car traffic, avoid picking flowers or plants, and always take your garbage with you. Your visit contributes directly to the preservation of the Auvergne volcanoes and their trails.
Updated by
Clermont Auvergne Volcans - 02/06/2026
www.clermontauvergnevolcans.com
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Tips
The Volcans shuttle bus takes you to the Goules parking lot from Clermont-Ferrand (gare SNCF / Ballainvilliers / Jaude) and Royat during vacation periods.
We recommend that you follow the route with the Mikhes app, which guides you step by step for a simplified discovery. Download the app at the bottom of the page and start your tour.
Open period
All year round daily.
Location complements
Access by bus (Vulcania shuttle) from Clermont or Royat every day in summer (July/August). During school vacations: spring and autumn, book 48 hours in advance.
Contact
Phone : 04 73 98 34 00
Website : https://www.clermontmetropole.eu/en/bouger-se-divertir/a-la-decouverte-de-lagglo/itineraires-de-randonnees/21-idees-de-circuits-dans-lagglomeration-clermontoise/
Tricky passages
Very easy; steeper climb for the off-tour grotte du Sarcoui and puy des Goules.
Data author
