Cournols, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne: natural and cultural gems

An area crossed by the Cheire d'Aydat flowing from the puys de la Vache and de Lassolas. The Monne flows into the valley in torrents, making the paths steep and cool, and offering fine panoramic views of the volcanoes.

Lac d'Aydat is a volcanic reservoir. After circumnavigating the lake and enjoying panoramic views of the volcanoes, the path leads the walker to the pontoons above the Aydat wetland, a place rich in flora and fauna.

This itinerary on the Serre plateau, a fine example of inverted relief, offers superb views of the Monts Dômes and Monts Dore, as well as Lac de La Cassière. Attentive hikers will spot dry-stone shepherd's shelters.

Lac d'Aydat offers a wide range of water-based activities, with a beach and water sports center. Views over the Chaîne des Puys provide a glimpse of the Auvergne landscape: lakes, volcanoes, villages, megaliths and agricultural valleys.

We are following the footsteps of the templars who took refuge at the Olloix commandery at the time when Auvergne was one of the main territories of the Order of Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. Superb views, crosses, bridges, megaliths.... Starting point - From the starting sign, go down towards the village of Chaynat. At the first fork, continue to the right. On the village square, turn right towards the rue du Four à pain until you reach the fountain. 1 - Turn left onto Chemin de Gourdon and continue up about 500 m to an intersection. 2 - Take the right track. At the T-junction, turn left. At a new T-junction on the flat, turn right and continue for 50 m (menhir des Deux territoires), until you reach a fork. 3 - Turn right. At the next road, turn left for 300 m, turn left again and continue until a crossing 300 m further on. 4 - Go up to the right on the wide grassy path for a round trip to the top of the Puy de Gourdon (from the top, distant circular view). Back to point 4, continue the path to the right. On the descent, the oblique path to the left before reaching a T-junction, near an agricultural building. Turn left and follow this main road back to point 3, continue to the right and keep east-west for 500 m. The path then turns largely to the left. Continue straight ahead, reach point 2 and continue until you reach the fountain in Chaynat. Follow the road on the right (D74, route de Ludesse) to pass below the church (church and commandery, 15th century). Stay on the road towards Saint-Saturnin. At the end of the village, turn left into rue des Avats, which runs alongside the castle park before going straight up to the starting point of the circuit.

At the foot of one of the most famous volcanoes in the Chaîne des Puys, Puy de la Vache, you can observe various volcanic phenomena through vegetation, basalt quarries, ponds and magnificent views.

This family hike, with its many panoramic views, takes you to the puys de la Vache and Lassolas, twin volcanoes of remarkable proportions. The surrounding landscape is made up of cooled lava bombs scattered over a soil composed in part of pozzolan.

A nice tour via the Quinsat stream (footbridges) that leads to the Ravine of Quinsat and then to the Tour de Rognon, remains of the lords of Montaigut. At the top, the landscape opens up with views of Montaigut-Le-Blanc and the Livradois-Forez mountains. Starting point - At the bridge of Rognon, take the D640 towards Grandeyrolles for 30 m, and go down the road to stream of Quinsat. At the small stone bridge stay on the right bank, and continue upstream across four footbridges. After the fourth footbridge, turn right, cross the brook of Combres, and follow the path that rises in bends to the plateau. 1 - At the crossing on the plateau, take the rightmost path, which goes down slightly at first, before going up to a large path on the left (view on the Forez mountains, the Couzes country and the Sancy massif). Continue until the crossroads in Thone-le-Vieux. 2 - Cross the bridge on the left, then turn right towards Thone-le-Jeune. At the fork, stay to the right and cross Thone-le-Jeune by going down on the left. At the exit, turn right (view of the Sancy river), and continue until you reach Grandeyrolles. 3 - Go through the village (Romanesque church). Continue straight ahead, leaving the puy de Grandeyrolles on the left (view of Livradois-Forez), and then take the winding path down the path that passes under the Rognon tower and reaches the starting point.

Along the way, you'll discover the tomb of Thèdes, where Benoît GONOD, an illustrious 19th-century teacher, is buried. Enjoy the view of the Puy-de-Dôme and the Artière gorges. Marked trails. Hiking map available free of charge at the Escapad' reception desk, where the route starts.

A real family outing, the discovery of Chatrat offers a beautiful view of the Puy de Dôme. Marked trails. Hiking map available free of charge at the Escapad' reception desk, where the route starts.

Family-hotel and restaurant near Lake La Cassière. The inn "Between Lakes and Volcanoes" offers a nature stop for a meal or a stay.

The château will not be open to individual visitors this season Château de Batisse invites you on a fascinating journey through the centuries. Originally a medieval fortress, the Château has been transformed into a prestigious residence, bearing witness to the architectural savoir-faire of each era it has passed through. An exceptional estate is revealed step by step: waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers, pools with silvery reflections, sumptuous parks and formal gardens, a rose garden of a thousand colors and bewitching fragrances.

.Located on the Gergovie plateau - a true natural belvedere over Auvergne, this new generation plunges young and old into the Gallic Wars between Vercingetorix and Julius Caesar. It combines archaeological objects and multimedia tools. More than a visit, the Archaeological Museum of the Battle of Gergovie offers a lively and interactive journey. The space combines graphics, models, archaeological objects and multimedia with the highlight of an audiovisual room plunging the visitor into the atmosphere of the Battle of Gergovie between Romans and Gauls. The route also allows you to discover the civilization of oppida arvernes, to discover the archaeological secrets of Gergovie and to understand the natural and geological history of the Plateau and the magnificent landscapes that surround it.

From the woods of La Comté to the villages of Livradois, this route is dedicated to Queen Margot. On the way, superb panoramas and discovery of beautiful villages like Usson. The itinerary begins in Parent. Villages crossed: Yronde-et-Buron / St-Babel / Manglieu / Sugères / Sauxillanges / Usson / Brenat / Orbeil / Yronde-et-Buron / Parent.

Do you love climbing? Then come and discover this 1800m² bouldering park in Vétraz-Monthoux. Large, bright spaces to discover or rediscover bouldering. For experienced climbers, try out Europe's largest indoor "psychobloc". Detailed description

A visit to l'Aventure Michelin is astonishing, fun and friendly, and opens the doors to an exceptional world. L'Aventure Michelin is a scenographic journey of 2000m². Thanks to an interactive scenography, you will discover the history, the present and the future of the Michelin group. From the very first detachable tyre to the MICHELIN Visionary Concept not forgetting the famous maps and guides - or the good old Michelin Man - a whole world of excitement awaits you ! The museum exhibition is bilingual (French/English). You can also take a tour in German or Spanish, thanks to the audioguide available at the site reception, or in German, Spanish, Italian and Dutch by downloading the free l'Aventure Michelin mobile application.

Want to discover the world of volcanoes and the natural phenomena of planet Earth? Go exploring in Vulcania in Auvergne, unique park in Europe on the theme of volcanoes and the Earth. You can enjoy a 3-hour outing to explore the interior of a totally natural volcano on foot or on a little train, with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. During this fun visit you’ll encounter some geological treasures and learn about man’s involveme

Explore the heart of a real volcano... Located at the center of the tectonic "Chaîne des Puys - Faille de Limagne" UNESCO World Heritage Site, we offer you the unique and unusual opportunity to discover the inside of a 100% natural volcano. Discover the secrets of volcanology with a 2h30 interactive tour of the Lemptégy volcano, comprising 5 stages: - The "volcano and men" tour: this fun, interactive introduction to the visit will familiarize you with the volcano and give you a better understanding of its metamorphosis. A 30-minute self-guided tour. - Guided exploration of the volcano's anatomy: meet your guide on foot or by train. He'll share all his geological and volcanological knowledge with you: bombs, volcanic chimneys, lava flows... and you'll leave with scoria (solidified lava). A wealth of information to help you better understand the landscape around you. - L'âme de Lemptégy": an unusual journey into the site's industrial past, with a visit to the old pozzolan extraction machines once used by quarrymen. - The immersive "Volcano 'Express" attraction: this sensory and emotional experience reveals all the secrets behind the formation of the Chaîne des Puys and the Faille de Limagne. What if the fault were to reopen... Will you reach your destination? - The dynamic 4D film "Aux Origines": enjoy an unprecedented flight over the volcanoes of Auvergne and relive the history of the volcano as if you were there, from its eruptions to the present day. While you're there, treat yourself to a gourmet break at the Volcan de Lemptégy restaurant. The chef offers traditional regional dishes (sausage/aligot, truffade, petit salé...). You can also stroll through the new boutique and discover a wide range of regional products, souvenirs, books... LE REVEIL DU VOLCAN" NIGHT TOUR: a breathtaking nocturnal experience! Entering at night, you'll be propelled into the heart of the Lemptégy Volcano for an extraordinary experience. Along the way, you'll plunge into an erupting volcano and discover magical creatures. A new world to discover and a new way to experience Volcan de Lemptégy. 1.5 km on foot. Prices and schedule: see website. IN JULY AND AUGUST

Understand at last the work of the bee, its role on the environment. Workshop to create breeding-cages for insects. Candle making. During a fun and educational visit, the facilitator first presents how the life of bees in the hive is organized. Then, you will discover the essential role of the bee in our environment with the help of the "theater of nature". Then, observe the bees in complete safety in the glass hives. Then comes the most spectacular moment, when the host opens a beehive behind glass. Thanks to a macro video system, we get inside the cells! At the honey house, you will attend a demonstration of honey extraction. And to end this journey well, we offer you a tasting of honey and homemade products. Duration of the visit: around 1h15 The Boutique is open all year round Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. and on the opening days of the museum. Discovery workshops during school holidays. Exhibition on edible insects and children's games.

Founded in 1968 in the wild site of the Gorges de la Monne, the construction of the Benedictine monastery of Randol was completed in 1985, giving the complex a remarkable architectural unity. The very classical layout is inherited from the thousand-year-old Western monastic tradition. The monastery is home to a community of some 40 monks, living according to the Rule written at Mont Cassin by Saint Benedict (480-547). Free admission. Tours of the church can be organized for groups (booking essential). In the monastery porter's office: souvenirs, Gregorian chant exhibition (store open outside church service hours).

Built on a basalt mound, Saint-Saturnin, formerly the residence of the barons of la Tour d'Auvergne, is listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France, and owes its appeal to the use of arkose and volcanic stone in its buildings. Down its steep and narrow alleyways are homes dating back to the Renaissance alongside winemakers’ homes, wash-houses, fountains and little, shady squares. We recommend that you should go down the Chemin des Lavoirs to see the Gorges de la Monne below the village. And in the holiday season, there are theme-based guided tours and “Les énigmes au clair de lune” moonlight tours. Strolling through Saint-Saturnin is a real pleasure. Numerous signposts around the village give you an insight into its history and monuments. Set on a lava flow overlooking the Monne gorges to the south and the Veyre valley to the north, Saint-Saturnin is surrounded on three sides by the hills of the Parc Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne. It is dominated by a spectacular, harmonious pairing of arkose and volcanic stone: the church, one of the five major Romanesque churches in Auvergne, and the château, built in the 13th century by the de La Tour d'Auvergne family. As you stroll along its steep, narrow streets, you'll see Renaissance dwellings mixed with winegrowers' houses, washhouses, fountains and shady squares. Don't forget to take the "chemin des lavoirs" to discover the Gorges de la Monne below the village.

Feodal castle, beautified in the Renaissance and became a royal residence. Park, gardens and panorama on the Romanesque church and the village of Saint-Saturnin. A powerful fortified castle built in the 13th century, it was embellished in the 15th century under the influence of the Renaissance and became the property of queens Catherine de Médicis and Marguerite de Valois, and later of King Louis XIII. This enchanting setting opens onto parks and gardens set in the Parc Naturel des Volcans d'Auvergne. Near the charming Romanesque church.

Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption de Nadaillat dates back to the 19th century. It was built thanks to the efforts of the inhabitants. Under the Ancien-Régime, the territory of Nadaillat was under the control of the parish of Chanonat, whose communalist priests came to celebrate mass and administer the sacraments. Pastoral visits confirmed that the building was in good condition and indicated that it was vaulted. After the French Revolution and the Concordat in 1801, the Église de Nadaillat became attached to the Église Saint-Genès at Saint-Genès-Champanelle. Mass was celebrated there only sporadically on certain religious holidays. In 1838, the inhabitants fought tooth and nail to have their church one again part of the parish, as a chapel of ease to Église Saint-Genès in Saint-Genès-Champanelle. A new building was put up to replace the former church. The parishioners financed the project and helped with the work. The church was consecrated in 1842 by Monseigneur Féron, bishop of Clermont, and dedicated to Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. The bell tower completed the church after 1852. The church’s architect is not known, and its style is neo-Gothic with bay frames, buttresses and a bell tower made from Volvic stone. The façade is set off by two buttresses framing the entrance and two niches. Above the niches, partly erased inscriptions give the date of 1842 on the right and “Hoc potuit pietas vici” (Here piety triumphed). A triangular pediment crowns the façade, providing a hint of neo-Classicism.

The former Aydat wetland, naturally present until the 1960s-1970s, was revived in May 2012. This zone alone represents a rich and important environment for the lake's biodiversity. Its main role is to purify the waters of the Veyre thanks to the presence of suitable vegetation that limits phosphorus inputs into Lac d'Aydat. You can stroll through this area along a path of pontoons with footbridges and observatories overlooking the pond, where you can see many species of birds. Guided outings are organized on Thursday mornings from July to November to discover the richness of this biodiversity. Click on the orange "Reserve" button (top right) for more information and to book your outing online...

Pearl of Romanesque art, built from volcanic stone and arkose and forming a highly unusual whole. You’ll have the opportunity to admire the specific features of the Auvergne Romanesque architecture. A jewel of Romanesque art, built of volcanic stone and blond arkose, it forms a highly original ensemble, decoratively different from other Romanesque churches, but architecturally identical. You'll have the chance to admire the special features of Auvergne Romanesque architecture. It is one of the few churches to have escaped the destruction of its octagonal steeple during the French Revolution. Health measures COVID-19 : - Wearing a mask - Respect for social distancing - Hydro-alcoholic gel at church entrance - Direction of traffic to visit the church with arrows on the floor

The château will not be open to individual visitors this season Château de Batisse invites you on a fascinating journey through the centuries. Originally a medieval fortress, the Château has been transformed into a prestigious residence, bearing witness to the architectural savoir-faire of each era it has passed through. An exceptional estate is revealed step by step: waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers, pools with silvery reflections, sumptuous parks and formal gardens, a rose garden of a thousand colors and bewitching fragrances.

The metropolitan area of Clermont Auvergne features a number of fountains, for drinking or for washing. The fountain at Saulzet-le-Chaud is special in that it also features a cross with the original dedications. 97 fountains are spread throughout the Clermont Auvergne metropolitan area, including around twenty in Romagnat. The fountain is for both drinking and washing, as we see here. The washing basin is located downstream of the fountain in order not to pollute the water intended as drinking water for inhabitants and animals. Before the washing basins were built, residents of Romagnat washed their laundry in the La Gazelle stream where they set up small dams. The places most frequented in Romagnat were le Clos (close to the cemetery), le Moulin (at the bottom of the street of the same name) and further back at La Gazelle, where chemin de Clémensat cut across the stream. There was no bridge and people crossed on foot across large flat stones. In 1832, washing basins were created to use the overflow from fountains supplied by the fissures of the springs at La Gazelle. Made from Volvic stone, the fountain and the washing basin on this square are embellished with a cross. Its design is classical, with Christ and the Virgin Mary and the infant in her arms at the crossroads. On the side of the Virgin Mary we read “MA Montrez-vous notre mère” and on the side of Christ we read “IHS signe du salut”. These dedications are original and for now are unique in the region. Fifteen other crosses can also be found at Romagnat.

Château-fort d’Opme is one of the oldest châteaux in Auvergne. The château and gardens are listed on the Historic Monuments registry. Built in the late 11th century by the Counts of Auvergne to control the col where the Roman path ran from Clermont to Puy, it is one of the oldest châteaus in Auvergne. Along with Château de Châteaugay, they are examples of defensive architecture. With a square layout, it is flanked by five towers, three of which remain today. A square keep, a system of battlements and merlons on machiolation, replaced the north-west tower in the 13th century. The château had a number of different owners. Around 1230, it was exchanged with the Montrognon fortress (of which only one tower remains today). It then became the property of the lords of Montrognon. In 1381 it fell into the hands of the English, but was liberated in 1393. In 1613 it was purchased by the owner who gave it its current appearance: Antoine de Ribeyre, treasurer of France. A main entrance, an interior staircase and wide mullion windows were created to bring elegance to the fortress and two gardens were landscaped into terraces, one with a large circular pond and the other with a fountain. The château and gardens were listed on the historic monuments registry in 1916 and 1969 respectively. The garden obtained “Jardin remarquable” status in 2004. Since 1989 the current owners have continued their restoration efforts.

. Initially a castle chapel, Église Saint-Bonnet dates back to the 12th century. It has undergone several changes.It is protected as a Historic Monument. Built in the early 12th century, Église Saint-Bonnet at Opme was first the château’s chapel. It housed the sepulchres of the lords from its origins. Guillaume V of Montrognon was the first person to be buried there. The parish of Opme was created in 1401. It was separate from that of Romagnat until the French Revolution. The lord appointed the priest. Although the building is difficult to date, we can see that the church features a Romanesque nave and transept, revamped in the 13th and 18th centuries. The door on the western façade, leading directly to the château’s courtyard, was walled in the 17th century. The door features a semi-circular arch with keystones alternating in lava stone and arkose. The three-section choir was rebuilt in either the 17th or the 19th century, according to the Gothic layouts of the Middle Ages. It is framed by two chapels. In the 17th century, a new main door was created on the northern side to open the church towards the village. It retains its original leaves. On top of the church sits a bell-gable through which the bells are visible. The church was listed on the historic monuments registry in 1959. Several items of its interior furnishings are also listed, such as the altarpiece and altar of the Virgin Mary, statues of Saint Roch, Saint Bartholomew, adoring angels and stalls. The church was restored in 2023.

In the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park, 20 minutes from Clermont-Ferrand, the restaurant is ideally located on the beach of Lake Aydat. The chef offers traditional cuisine and a range of pizza, burger, salad and snack.

Local and traditional restoration in the exceptional historical site of Gergovie. This restaurant offres a panoramic setting 15 minutes from Clermont-Fd.

This restaurant is located close to Lastioulles water sports centre and to the municipal campground. Tourist area for fishing, hunting and mushrooms gathering. Bar - tobacconist’s - restaurant - catering delivered Menu during high season - closed on Mondays during low season

Traditional cuisine.

Traditional cuisine using local produce.

Annie and Pascal Delpeuch will welcome you in their establishment Le Chavanon and offer to treat you to good regional dishes.

In the heart of the Cézallier, magnificent, fully restored buron. Home cooking, local produce, local meat, quality and tradition.

Refrigerated gourmet racks with specialties from Auvergne and other regions. Sweet gourmet racks. Open 24 hours a day.

Menu based on fresh seasonal produce. Licence IV.

Specialties include grilled meats and regional dishes: pounti, truffade, Auvergne platters and tasting platters, all served in a bright, open-plan dining room, under a covered terrace or in the open air.

Ecolodge in mountain village in Cournols. Construction with ecological materials and feng-shui intervention and geobiology. Fully equipped. Parking and private outdoor space. Rent by week or by night.

Family-hotel and restaurant near Lake La Cassière. The inn "Between Lakes and Volcanoes" offers a nature stop for a meal or a stay.

Opening 20/03/2020 > 01/11/2020 Stay in the Volcano region of the Auvergne! In the spa town of Royat, Huttopia Royat campsite welcomes you at the foot of the Puy de Dôme in a peaceful, natural setting.

Do you love climbing? Then come and discover this 1800m² bouldering park in Vétraz-Monthoux. Large, bright spaces to discover or rediscover bouldering. For experienced climbers, try out Europe's largest indoor "psychobloc". Detailed description

At an altitude of 850 m, between high plateaux and volcanoes, this renovated former barn offers self-catering accommodation for 15 people. Hammam, natural swimming pool, large landscaped outdoor area, terraces, petanque area... Large detached stone house close to the owners' home. You have access to the entire building for a total capacity of 15 people in 6 bedrooms, each with its own shower room and private bathroom. Spread over 3 floors, you'll appreciate the space and be able to enjoy good times with friends or family. On the ground floor, you can share your meals around the large dining room table. The owners will provide you with everything you need to prepare your meals. There are 2 lounges where you can relax by the fire or enjoy a TV break. A Hammam is available for a truly relaxing moment (extra charge). For total comfort, beds are made on arrival, and cleaning and heating are included. Washing machine. Terrace, garden furniture, children's play area, private car park. Motorbike shelter. Biological swimming pool. Petanque pitch Shops and services at La Goutelle 6 km, Pontaumur 10 km. Access to A89 Bromont Lamothe exit.

In this old hay barn, 4 lovely, cozy and spacious bedrooms await you, peaceful nights guaranteed ! The balconies have a magnificant view of the Puy Chain. Small, antique furniture is set alongside the large cupboerds of yesteryear. The floors are made of local oak. All the woodwork is treated with natural products.

Exceptional setting in the heart of the Artense lakes, with panoramic views of the Sancy massif, the Cantal mountains and the Tact reservoir. Tastefully renovated 5-bedroom gîte. At 900 m altitude, close to GR30 and mountain bike trails, 4 km from Lastioulles water sports center. Recommended by Routard, Guide Vert, Lonely Planet, Petit futé, Cantal Destination. Fishing label.