Hike : The Gergovie plateau from Pérignat-lès-Sarliève

Starting from the square in Pérignat-lès-Sarliève, this long circular walk offers a real taste of history and nature. It involves a gradual climb towards the iconic Gergovie plateau and the Puy de Mardoux, in the heart of the wine-growing hillsides.

A long circular walk taking in geology, vineyard landscapes and a key site in Gallic history

Starting from the centre of Pérignat-lès-Sarliève (with an alternative route available from Romagnat), the ‘The Gergovie Plateau from Pérignat-lès-Sarliève’ walk is a superb journey through the hillsides of the Val d’Allier and the Comté. This route elegantly combines the great outdoors, landscapes shaped by wine-growing and an immersion in one of France’s most famous historical sites.

Highlights of the walk:
• The legendary Gergovie Plateau: A walk across the site of the famous battle between Vercingetorix and Julius Caesar, offering exceptional panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys (UNESCO), the Sancy massif and the Limagne plain.
• Geological features: A remarkable stretch at the foot of the Puy de Mardoux, a unique volcanic hill overlooking the valley.
• Landscapes and rural heritage: A walk through hillsides once entirely devoted to vineyards, charming villages and refreshing woodland.
• Gradual ascent: A steady gradient with no sudden changes in slope.

Practical information & Technical details:
• Start / Finish: Car park near the square (Rue Marcel-Magard – 63170 Pérignat-lès-Sarliève) — Alternative start from Rue de la République / Romagnat.
• Signposting: Yellow circles in both directions

A substantial hike requiring good walking boots and a sufficient supply of water, as the Gergovie plateau is very open and exposed to both wind and sun.