Authentic exploration of Olloix, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne

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.

A beautiful itinerary over vast moors of stone and broom, where sheep and cows share the lawns, with lovely panoramic views. After Cournols, there's a dolmen, one of the most complex and impressive in the Auvergne.

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.

The sunny hillsides of Saint-Sandoux are the kingdom of the Auvergne apple (33 varieties) and of nature: vineyards, wheat fields, dry grasslands, a rich variety of flora and fauna. From the puy Saint-Sandoux (paragliding site), a surprising mosaic of views.

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.

The pleasant valley of La Rodde leads to Gourdon from where you can enjoy a vast panoramic view of the western plateaus, the Limagne plain and the volcanoes. A path between broom and undergrowth leads back to the medieval heights of Montaigut-le-Blanc. 1 - Follow it to the right for 100 m. After the bend, take the road to the right (several cellars and a well) until you reach the entrance of Gourdon (washhouse below). Go through the village, go up on the right until you reach the farm, keep going on the right. On the plateau, at the sign "Puy de la Rodde 747 m", take the right track (view on the Cézallier and the Sancy massif). Continue on the plateau, (view of the Forez and the Limagne plain). At the T-junction, turn right. At the next fork, take the right track (long and delicate descent). Follow a path on the right until the T-junction (opposite Saint Julien). 2 - Turn right then left (view on the castle, the church and the village of Montaigut). Pass in front of the "white monks" (light rocks that evoke monks on the left). At the bridge, go up to the right rue de l'Eglise. Before the gate of the castle enclosure, take the track to the left. Go down to the D996 road. Follow it to the left until you reach the car park. Cross it on the right and take the grating on the left to return to the starting point.

From Montaigut-le-Blanc, the Pinière plateau offers an exceptional panorama of the Sancy mountains.

This tour will appeal to heritage lovers. Saint-Saturnin is a remarkable village - labeled a Petite Cité de Caractère® - built of blonde stone, giving it a southern atmosphere. Alongside fountains, a Romanesque church and a fortified castle, the route continues above the village, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside and heritage, including the Benedictine abbey of Notre-Dame de Randol.

This walk takes in the magnificent village of Saint-Saturnin and the southern slopes of the Montagne de la Serre, with their low walls and century-old dry-stone or short stone huts, vestiges of a rural world where man has left his mark.

In this small paradise full of plants, the path runs along the couze Pavin and climbs towards the lime of Verrières, wrapping itself around the Puy des Plattes and Bourgeassou. The beautiful viewpoints invite you to join the Roche Longue (volcanic “dyke”). Starting point - From the starting sign, cross the bridge over the Couze-Chambon and turn right into rue de Charbonnière. At the end of the village continue straight ahead. Leave paths to the right and left, continue until you reach a crossroads. 1 - Go up the grassy path on the left, ignoring two paths on the right. At the asphalt road go up to the right. In the bend take the 2nd track to the left. After the wood (view of the Sancy massif), stay on the main path until you reach the big farm at the entrance of the village of Fontenille. 2 - Turn left, pass in front of a stable and go down to the woods. Continue along a steep path to Couze-Chambon, then follow it on a wide path to Verrières. At the first houses, turn right and reach the starting point.

Château de la Batisse, located in Chanonat, is classified as a Historic Monument, as is the entire estate, and is surrounded by a garden that has been awarded the "Jardin Remarquable" label. Originally built in the 13th century as a defensive tower, the Château de La Batisse became a fortified castle in the 14th century. In the 18th century, it was transformed into a true pleasure estate, which is admired today for its rich history, its remarkable architecture, and its gardens—unique in the Auvergne region. Open year-round, the castle hosts both private and professional events, all while coming alive with an inspiring cultural program. Unique exhibitions, exceptional events, and timeless experiences make the site a space for creativity and cultural transmission. Contemporary art, historical reenactments, performances, concerts, and immersive evenings invite visitors to rediscover the château in a new light. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious, everyone can enjoy unique experiences in the heart of this place steeped in history. Events From June 20 to August 30, 2026, set amid 19 hectares of nature and gardens designated as “Jardin Remarquable” (Remarkable Garden) and traversed by the Auzon River, the estate offers visitors a true respite of freshness and discovery. Shady woods, French-style gardens, waterfalls, orchards, a maze, wooden play structures, and art installations punctuate the visitor experience: Gallery of Auvergne portraits in the maze — Denis Pourcher Lava stone sculptures integrated into the gardens — Thierry Courtadon Floral sculptures in the Roseraie pond — Alexis Boyer “In Search of the Enlightenment”: busts of great philosophers hidden in the grove along the Allée des Cascades Summer 2026 Program Music Festival – June 20, 2026: storytelling during siesta time in the orchard, a costumed procession in the style of Napoleon III, and a free festive evening at the Moulin du Château starting at 6:30 p.m. (in partnership with Auzon Collectif), featuring concerts by local artists, food, and a friendly atmosphere. Concert Evening – July 13: concert featuring Les Frères Maulus followed by a barbecue. Guided Tours of the Château: starting July 8, Wednesdays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Napoleon III-themed costumed processions (afternoon): June 20, July 8, August 9 Storytelling tours (afternoon): July 8, August 5 “The Musketeers & Milady” event (July 15–August 13, every Wednesday): performances and fencing workshops.

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

Located on the Gergovie plateau, this new-generation museum plunges young and old alike into the Gallic War between Vercingetorix and Caesar, with archaeological artifacts and multimedia displays. More than just a visit, the Musée Archéologique de la Bataille de Gergovie offers a truly lively, interactive tour. The discovery area combines graphics, models, archaeological objects and multimedia devices, culminating in an immersive audiovisual room that plunges visitors into the heart of the famous battle between Romans and Gauls. The tour also allows visitors to explore the civilization of the Arverne oppida, understand the archaeological advances made on the Gergovie site and grasp the natural and geological history of the plateau. It offers a complete understanding of the grandiose landscapes surrounding this emblematic site.

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.

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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

This route alternates between mountain pastures and forests, and is accessible to all, making it ideal for snowshoeing and Nordic ski touring. Descriptif détaillé uk

Walking tour of Clermont's historic center organized by the Tourist Office.

Built at the end of the Middle Ages, this château contains some of the most extraordinary furniture and painted decor from the 16th and 17th centuries, a dazzling illustration of the medieval and early Renaissance imagination. 1-hour guided tour only. Château de Villeneuve-Lembron is a seigniorial residence built at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries. Reflecting a period of transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the building shows the importance and wealth that the lord of Villeneuve, Rigaud d'Aureille, derived from royal favor, thanks in particular to the preserved furniture and painted decorations. Rigaud d'Aureille (c. 1450-1517), Baron de Villeneuve, was an important figure who enjoyed many privileges. Captain and butler to the king, he earned the trust of the sovereigns and was entrusted with diplomatic missions. The residence he had built away from the old family mansion where he was born was a vast quadrilateral flanked by massive towers and surrounded by deep moats. The lord did not hesitate to depict himself in murals illustrating "dits", short plays with a moral or satirical tone. At the beginning of the 16th century, the land of Villeneuve became a barony and belonged to the Montmorin family. Gaspard de Montmorin embellished the château with a large-scale painted decor, of which some remarkable examples remain in the ceremonial hall and large stables. In 1643, Villeneuve-Lembron was acquired by Isaac Dufour, Treasurer of France, who transformed the inner courtyard, added a porticoed gallery and decorated the ceilings and fireplaces on the second floor. His descendants, who remained in the castle until the end of the 18th century, sold it to the Pélissier de Féligonde family, who kept it until 1919. By decree of May 25, 1926, the château was classified as a Historic Monument. The last owner, Georges Tixier, donated it to the French government in 1937, which undertook its restoration. It is currently managed by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux.

The Hôtel d'Aureilhe (old château de Villeneuve), residence of the Aureilhe de Villeneuve family in the 15th and 16th centuries, is a fortified medieval perimeter that bears architectural witness to the rise of the nobility in feudal Lembron. It features : - An early 11th-century keep, a square tower surrounded by a first enclosure, of which fine remains have been found, and from the top of which you can admire an exceptional panorama. - The mansion itself, a 15th-century seigniorial palace. - The second enclosure and the 16th-century main buildings currently being restored. The building is listed on the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments. The renovations were carried out with the help of the French government, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the Puy de Dôme department.

The Gorges de la Monne, located between Olloix and Cournols, are a truly wild and cool place to wander and discover preserved flora and fauna. A small, torrential river, the Monne rises in the Monts Dore at an altitude of 1,300m, near the Col de la Croix Morand. It joins the Veyre near Tallende, before ending its course in the Allier. Classified and protected since 1979, the remarkable natural site of the Gorges de la Monne, only accessible from the communes of Olloix and Cournols, is also classified as a "Natura 2000 Zone", as much for the quality of its landscapes as for its wealth of flora and fauna. Oak, ash and maple populate the wooded slopes of the gorge, where rocky outcrops mingle with more open environments. Among 7 protected flowers, you can admire the Yellow Gage and Willow-leaved Helianthemum, the rare Red Cephalanthemum and the Martagon Lily. Along steep paths, lucky hikers may catch a glimpse of one of the gorges' inhabitants. Otters, polecats and red squirrels share their kingdom with eagle owls and horned warblers. Corn quail and hoopoes are not to be outdone in the orchestra ringing out in the middle of this wilderness. On the Ribeyrolles bridge, in front of the waterfall or on a rocky outcrop, take time to listen to the river.

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).

The village's history is reflected in the charm of Montaigut-le-Haut's old streets, which wind around the foot of its castle and church. Once fortified (see the city gate), the village is situated on a slope and dominated by an important castle (12th – 15th century). In the 13th century were born in this castle two Montaigut: one was chosen as “Old Master of the Jerusalem Order” whereas his brother reached the same function in the Order of the Templiers. The fort kept its important square donjon, a turret of stairs, an ogival door and the remains of the old chapel (12th century). The church Saint-Blaise is in part a Romanesque one and it has beautiful capitals and an interesting baptismal font. The point of view on the top of the village is really beautiful.

One of Auvergne's three major wine cellar sites, and the only one in the heart of nature, it's a stunning landscape to discover from the road! A real Hobbit village! These 140 holes dug in an ancient ash flow from the Sancy volcano, which arrived here a million years ago, offer a bewildering and very pretty sight: the entrances to these semi-circular cellars are all built of stone. The oldest known cellar dates back to 1791, but most were dug at the end of the 19th century to cope with the boom in Auvergne's vineyards, which were then in their heyday. Vines were growing everywhere between Montaigut and Champeix. In Montaigut, vines spread along the sides of the village, sometimes even between the houses! This prosperity came to an abrupt halt in the early 20th century when the vines were hit by phylloxera. Then came the First World War, followed by the rural exodus to Paris: the vineyards of Auvergne never recovered. The cellars of Saint-Julien, no longer needed, were almost all abandoned. A few were eventually converted to Saint-Nectaire cheese maturing. One was even used as a hideout by a Resistance fighter, who concealed twenty tons of weapons, ammunition and radio sets for London. Denounced, he was deported and never returned. The heritage association owns several of these, which it has restored. So has the Conservatoire des Espaces Naturels, with a view to protecting the current occupants of the site: the bats! which remain very discreet... Today, these 140 caves in the middle of greenery offer walkers a truly unusual stroll! But be warned, they are private: the site can only be discovered from the Chemin des caves and the cul-de-sacs leading off from it.

This medieval village was built around a castle perched on a rocky spur. We can see by far the outline of its donjon recently restored. Below, you can discover the church with its Romanesque capital and its beautiful baptismal cistern of the 13th century. 2km away from Montaigut-le-Blanc, you can discover the village of Saint-Julien and its 140 caves hollow in the soft volcanic tuff of its hills. In the past used to age wine and keep apples fresh, it’s nowadays used to age Saint-Nectaire cheeses.

Perched on a basalt mound, Saint-Saturnin, classified as a Petite Cité de Caractère®, boasts arkose and volcanic stone architecture, a medieval La Tour d'Auvergne castle and a major Auvergne Romanesque church. Strolling through Saint-Saturnin is a real pleasure: signs all over the village invite you to discover its great and small history, revealing the wealth of its monuments. Set on a lava flow overlooking the Monne gorges to the south and the Veyre valley to the north, the village is surrounded on three sides by the hills of the Parc Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne. Its landscape is dominated by a spectacular, harmonious duo: the Romanesque church, one of Auvergne's five major churches, and the medieval château built in the XIIIᵉ century by the de La Tour d'Auvergne family, key figures in the region's history. The narrow, sloping streets reveal Renaissance dwellings, winegrowers' houses, washhouses, fountains and small shady squares. Every turn reveals a fragment of the village's signature arkose and volcanic stone architecture. For a natural immersion experience, the "chemin des lavoirs" leads to the Monne gorges, offering a gentle transition between built heritage and wild landscapes.

A mighty 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’ Medici and Marguerite de Valois, and later of King Louis XIII. This enchanting place opens onto parks and gardens set against the backdrop of the Auvergne Volcanoes Natural Park. It is located near the charming Romanesque church in the village. In July and August, guided tours are offered Sunday through Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with tours departing every hour.

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.

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.

Champeix castle belonged to a famous branch of the Counts of Auvergne, the Dauphins. What remains today is the base of the circular Romanesque keep and the former castle church, as well as a remodeled porch. Careful observation also reveals part of the ramparts to the south, converted into a retaining wall, and a ditch to the west, which served as a defensive barrier. Thanks to the Armorial de Revel, we have a representation of the castle in the 15th century, before it was abandoned by the Dauphins and their successors, dismantled in the 17th century and left to ruin. The church of Saint-Jean can still be seen. It's a small sanctuary with a single nave and flat chevet dating from the 12th century. Inside, fragments of frescoes evoke biblical episodes, including Salome's dance and Herod's banquet. The interior of the church is open to visitors in July and August, as part of organized exhibitions.

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. Local and traditional cuisine in an exceptional historic site and panoramic setting 15 minutes from Clermont-Fd. Enjoy our homemade pastries and ice creams in a landscaped park with children's play area and shaded terrace. For seminars or business lunches, rooms available from 8 to 40 people (U-shaped layout). 120 place settings in 3 rooms. Ample parking for coaches and cars.

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.

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.

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

Located in Champs-sur-Tarentaine-Marchal, Le Saint Rémi offers authentic and generous cuisine. Open from Sunday to Friday, for lunch all year round, and for lunch and dinner in August, the restaurant offers: a daily menu at €17, served at lunchtime. A menu featuring burgers, regional dishes and our specialty: frog legs. Come and discover local flavors in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

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. Shops and services in Saint Amant-Tallende 7 kms. Swimming and water sports in Aydat 8 kms.

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

This route alternates between mountain pastures and forests, and is accessible to all, making it ideal for snowshoeing and Nordic ski touring. Descriptif détaillé uk

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 private bathroom and toilet. Spanning 3 floors, you'll appreciate the spaciousness of the rooms and enjoy good times with friends and family. On the ground floor, you can share meals around the large dining room table. The owners will provide you with everything you need to prepare your meals. 2 lounges welcome you for a relaxing moment around the fire or a TV break. A Hammam is available for a truly relaxing moment (extra charge). For total comfort, beds are made up on arrival, and cleaning and heating are included. Washing machine. Terrace, garden furniture, children's play area, private parking. Motorcycle shelter. Biological swimming pool. Petanque court. Shops and services at La Goutelle 6 km, Pontaumur 10 km. Access to A89 Bromont Lamothe exit.

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.