Discover Murol, Puy-de-Dôme: treasures of the Auvergne

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.

Overhanging 927 m from Saurier and Courgoul, the volcanic peak of Brionnet offers hikers a panoramic view of the couzes and massifs with an orientation table and an access to a romanesque chapel built on basalt organs. Starting point - From the starting sign located in front of the Town Hall, go up the main street to the Place de la Porte Neuve (gate of the old fortified town). Turn left on the D146 towards Brionnet. At the exit of Saurier, in the bend, go up the path to the right until the road. 1 - Cross it and continue on the road opposite until you reach the hamlet of Rozier. 2 - Turn left, cross the hamlet (view of the Couze Pavin valley, the village of Creste and its ruined castle). After 800 m, take the first road on the right until you reach a paved road that leads to the road. 3 - Go up this road, then in the village of Brionnet take the first asphalt road on the right. At the top of the hamlet turn right into the sunken path and go to the road. Cross this road and take the courier that joins this same road. Continue to climb up to the pass. 4 - Turn right and follow the path then the trail to the top of the Pic du Brionnet (Notre-Dame du Mont Carmel chapel built on basalt columns, 360° panorama orientation table). 5 - Return to the pass (point 4), go down the hollow path to the right. Walk past the Lagouzoux farm (view of the Sancy massif). Continue up to the road (hairpin bend). 6 - Go down this one for 80 m. Take the first track on the left below and then turn left again 80 m further on. Join the road and go down the path on the left to continue the itinerary of the outward journey in the opposite direction until the starting point.

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.

The Couze du Valbeleix, descended from the heights of the Cézallier, has carved a magnificent valley. Man carved terraces there using dry stone walls, the "pailhats", to be able to cultivate on these steep slopes. Starting point - Take the small road on the left, opposite the loom to be fitted. Cross the bridge over the Couze du Valbeleix (view of the pailhats) and turn immediately to the left. Go along the river and join the road. Go left, cross the bridge, continue for 20 m until the junction with a path on the right. 1 - Take it and climb into the woods by a small path to reach a path, (on the right promontory with a view on the peak of Brionnet, the Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel chapel and the Courgoul gorges). Go down to the left, walk along the terraces called "pailhats". At the road, turn left to reach the starting point.

A beautiful hike in the gorges of Courgoul (couze) via a pretty path that leads to an old bridge and then to Auzollette: fountain, carved stone cross, bread oven.... Courgoul is appreciated for its pailhats (terraced gardens). Starting point - From the starting sign, take the path parallel to the road (view on the "Pailhats", terraces supported by dry stone walls), cross the bridge and go up to the right. 100m further on, turn right onto a wide, steep path. At the top of the hill, ignore the left path, continue opposite and go down opposite until you reach a retrograde path located at mid-slope. 1 - Take it to the left and go up in steep bends to reach the plateau where the path continues between the meadows up to a T-junction. 2 - Turn left and continue for about 500 m (point of view on the Cézallier, the Sancy massif, the Puys chain, the Courgoul gorges, the Brionnet chapel). Ignore the left path, keep going straight down. At the next crossing, continue opposite until the intersection at the entrance to the village of Auzolette. 3 - Cross Auzolette by the main street (cross, bread oven). At the end of the hamlet, turn left and 100 m further on, turn left again. Then go down by a winding path (view of the peak and the chapel of Brionnet), leave a track on the right, continue straight down to reach the Couze valley and, taking on the left, reach the starting point.

The tour of the peak of Cluzel takes place on a small path that rises gently, following the slopes of the oak wooded peak. Throughout this hike, the views of the valley are many and varied. Starting point - Go up the alley on the right of the church. At the first crossing, turn left and then immediately right. At the water trough, turn right and go up the path opposite. Continue the ascent on the main road to an intersection. 1 - Go down the path on the right. At the T-junction, continue the descent on the right until you reach the village of Pradelle. On the road, turn right until you reach a junction of a road on the left at the exit of the village (transformer post). 2 - Go up this path and continue until you reach a T-junction. Go down to the right (other PR on the left). At the fork, stay on the left. Continue (in the S-curve overlooking the Jonas caves and the Massif du Sancy) until you reach a stone bridge. 3 - Cross it and go down to the right. Go along the stream (ferruginous water source). At the road, turn right, cross the bridge over the Couze Pavin and immediately turn left. Go up into the woods and stay on the main path until you reach a fork. 4 - Go down to the left (old coal ovens and at the headland overlooking the peak of Brionnet, the Notre-Dame du Mont-Carmel chapel and the Gourgoul gorges). Continue on the path (pailhats). At the road, turn right to reach the starting point.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

The salt springs of Saurier, rich in iron, were born in the heart of the Pays des Couzes. Mineral water runs underground through faults and emerges at the surface, leaving behind its white and red deposits that contrast with the surrounding green environment. Halophyte plants, usually found by the sea, have developed around small springs. Starting from a superb medieval bridge called "Roman", take a cool and shaded path along one of the most beautiful rivers in Auvergne: the Couze Pavin. You will discover under your feet the passage of some small gaseous springs, forming in places very coloured limestone crusts called travertines.

The village of Saurier, along the Couze Pavin, developed in a small basin at Courgoul gorges'exit, where the Couze of Valbeleix and the Couze Pavin flowwing together. It is dominated by the impressive mass of the rock of Brionnet, at which summit you discover a gripping panorama on all the surroundings massifs. owing to numerous faults in the gneissic platforme, many mineral springs, known as salt and heavy with iron, gush around Saurier, particularly along the Couze pavin. Saurier is distinguished by the presence of a medieval house whose function has been identified by the symbols of wolfcraft engraved on the tympanum of the front door: wolf, hare, fleur de lys, horse. It was undoubtedly the residence of a lieutenant wolfsmith, charged by the king with controlling wildlife, organizing wolf drives and the passage of mail on horseback. The 15th century bridge evokes an old route of the road leading from the Val d'Allier to the mountains. Its three arches are supported by as many beak-shaped piles, one of which carries a small protective oratory dedicated to the Virgin. It is necessary to take it and go up a path along the bank of the river. In about ten minutes, we reach the site of the salt springs.

This village was fortified in the Middle Ages and was part of the Dauphiné of Auvergne. It was for a long time isolated because of the lack of roads and because of the important flooding risks. But, in the 19th century, the opening of the road from Issoire to Condat (Cantal) opened up this territory. Overlooking the village, the Pic of Brionnet peaks at 927m, it’s part of the most beautiful points of view on the territory. This volcanic peak, surrounded by beautiful basalt columns, offers an exceptional panorama. Moreover, a little chapel, Notre-Dame of Mount Carmel, rises on its top. The village of Saurier is located along the Couze Pavin. Its mineral springs are accessible along this Couze, by a delineated path fitted out by the Protective association of the Areas of Auvergne. They are full of iron and limestone. When coming up, white and red sediments are created, and create themselves travertines, surrounded by protected halophile plants. Officially, these springs have never been used, what did not avoid a small underground production on the surroundings markets. The cavities have been used as cellar. Today, they are used as refuge for bats.

Courgoul is located in a valley hollow by the Couze of Valbeleix. This Couze has its origins near the Chaumoune pass at 1300m high, and it is the principal tributary of the Couze Pavin. This village is known for its plots of culture fitted out with little walls in rocks, called “pailhat” in Auvergne. Human beings have known how to control the craggy slopes of this valley to cultivate them by shaping them into terraces of rocks, also called “giant’s stairs”. In Auvergne, we use the word “pailhat” to define these plots fitted out with rock terraces and consolidated with little walls in rocks. You can discover this tradition through the walk called “Entre saules, chênes et pailhats” (“Between willows, oaks and pailhats”, edited by the departmental council and the Balirando association).

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...

A few kilometres from the village of Saint-Floret, the salt spring of the Tête de Lion is dominated by an impressive limestone concretion with a feline profile. The "Lion's Head" is made up of a rock called travertine resulting from the continuous deposit of limestone carried by the water. The latter, which comes from infiltrations that descend into the basement and which, in contact with recent volcanic chambers, have warmed up and become charged with carbon dioxide. The access path borders the nearby Couze Pavin.

The history of the village is reflected in the charm of the old streets of Montaigut-le-haut, which meander at 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.

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.

This is a feudal castle of the 12th century. A beautiful gothic room was constructed in the 14th century, bedecked with twelve veins and a keystone representing a sun with a human face. 13 frescoes remain there, representing the work of Tristan. This is the unique representation known of the novel of Tristan. Since 2011, the second room of the castle can be visited. The keep is also accessible. From up there, you will enjoy a beautiful point of view on the village of Saint-Floret.

Huddled against the rock, the village is protected by the keep of a fortified castle. Don’t miss the hall of frescoes in the castle and the medieval necropolis around the church. At the foot of the keep, winemakers’ houses are reached via medieval alleyways. Overlooking the village is Le Chastel, a unique archaeological location with a Romanesque church. There are still important remains of the feudal complex that defends the village of Saint-Floret. The lower castle preserves magnificent 14th century frescos. It is the only French representation of a version of Tristan's novel Overlooking the village is the site of Le Chastel with its Romanesque church. During developments in the late 1970s, a series of rock tombs were discovered south of the church, dug into the rock. These cavities are called anthropomorphic for their shape adapted to the human body. Heritage visits of the village from April to September, and in July and August hiking with heritage visit.

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

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.

Armegyn and Antoine offer refined cuisine, featuring local produce. Everything is homemade, including the bread and puff pastry. Lovely shaded terrace in summer. Warm dining room with wood-burning stove in winter.

Fast food on site or to take away, home-made pizzas, desserts and ice creams made with fresh, seasonal, local and organic produce.

Traditional restaurant with terrace in a friendly, quiet setting. The place seats 30 people in a nice environment. Friendly welcome and fresh products. Homemade meals with local and regional products. Themed nights.

Traditional cuisine.

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

Brasserie on the water's edge with a breathtaking view of the Château de Val. The Relais Valcastel and its team offer a varied, high-quality menu. Showcasing regional products and dishes. Drinks, ice creams, pancakes, waffles.

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.

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.

Located in the heart of a 5-hectare natural site, near the Lastioulles and La Crégut lakes. Unlimited pitches with or without shade, electric hook-ups, communal washing machine and tumble dryer, children's games, table tennis, peace and relaxation guaranteed. Groups welcome except from 01/07 to 31/08.

6 cottages in a self-catering village near Lac de Lastioulles. 3 bedrooms, one on the mezzanine (1 double bed - 5 single beds), shower room, shared washing machine and dryer (summer), terrace. Peace and quiet with mountain views. Groups welcome.

Self-contained gîte with garden and views of the Monts du Cantal and Sancy. Just 5km from Lake Lastioulles and its water sports center. Fully-equipped kitchen, living room with dining area and sitting area with fireplace. 3 bedrooms, shower room and separate WC.

Located in the heart of a 5-hectare natural site, near the Lastioulles and La Crégut lakes. Unlimited pitches with or without shade, electric hook-ups, communal washing machine and tumble dryer, children's games, table tennis, peace and relaxation guaranteed. Capacity: 25 pitches