Discover Aydat, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This tour takes you to the Saint-Aubin chapel, to discover the Chabanat spring, reputed to heal visitors' eyes. Marked trails. Hiking map available free of charge at the Escapad' reception desk, where the route starts.

Bordering numerous fountains near the village of Beaune-le-Chaud, this walk offers a magnificent view of the Chaîne de Puys. 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.

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.

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.

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 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...

Located in the heart of the Chaîne des Puys, the Maison du Parc offers a vast reception and information area... On site, you'll find a permanent illustrated and interactive exhibition on the Park and its natural and cultural heritage, temporary exhibitions, a store selling ecological products, hiking guides and accessories, and local produce. An out-of-bag room for groups and a 100-seat conference room are available on reservation. Departure point for discovery and hiking trails. Nature discovery trails for families and schools (nature musette on the Vichatel trail). Free admission.

With a surface area of 395,000 hectares, the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne is the largest Regional Nature Park in mainland France! The Parc des Volcans, in the heart of Auvergne, is made up of remarkable landscapes, flora and fauna. But it also owes its singularity to an entire rural community that has been able to retain its know-how and culture. The area encompassed by the Parc des Volcans has 4 national nature reserves: the Réserve de la Vallée de Chaudefour, the Réserve des Sagnes de la Godivelle, the Réserve du Rocher de la Jacquette and the Réserve Chastreix Sancy. Through its valleys, on the high plateaux and ridges, alongside the rivers and lakes, in the forests and through the fields, the park provides all outdoor enthusiasts with some fantastic trips along the trails, which are marked GR or PR.

The Puy de la Vache reaches a height of 1,167 metres. Its main lava flow, together with that of the Puy de Lassolas, is known as the Cheire d'Aydat. By blocking off valleys, it created various lakes including the Etang de la Cassière to the north and the Lac d'Aydat to the south in the Veyre valley. These 8,000 year old volcanoes are the most recently-formed of their kind in the Chaîne des Puys. Puy de la Vache rises to an altitude of 1,167 metres. Its main lava flow, together with that of the Puy de Lassolas, is known as the cheire d'Aydat. By damming the valleys, it created a number of lakes, including Lac de la Cassière to the north and Lac d'Aydat to the south in the Veyre valley. At 8,000 years old, they are the youngest volcanoes in the Chaîne des Puys. The Chaîne des Puys stretches for fifteen kilometers, reaching as far as the present-day communes of Saint-Saturnin and Saint-Amant-Tallende. The particular color of these puys, due to oxidation, ranges from red (for those left exposed to the heat of the crater) to black, resulting in surprisingly chaotic landscapes, reinforced by the presence of numerous voluminous slags left over from the eruption. Pets are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash.

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.

Église Notre-Dame de la Visitation was the site of a very popular pilgrimage. In the 12th century, Beaune and Pardon formed a small manor that was a fiefdom of the Dauphin d’Auvergne and under the control of the manor of Montrognon (Ceyrat). It then passed under the control of the manors of Châteaugay, Les Giac and Les Laqueuille until the French Revolution. The village had a small chapel where a statue of the Virgin Mary attracted many pilgrims. Stillborn babies were taken there to be brought back to life and baptised. In 1727, the bishop forbade this practice and a manuscript from 1747 mentions that the statue was moved to the château’s chapel. After the Concordat, the small chapel in the village was bought by the inhabitants who repaired it and placed the preserved statue there. During the 19th century, the Notre-Dame-de-Beaune pilgrimage underwent a revival. Travellers going from Clermont to Mont-Dore paid homage to Notre-Dame-de-Beaune as they passed. Today, Notre-Dame-de-Beaune is still celebrated each year on the first Sunday of July. The church was restored and extended in 1863 according to plans by the architect Ledru.

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).

Laschamps retains a 12th century Romanesque-style church, Église Saint-Nicolas, close to the remains of a public space. Prior to the French Revolution, the parish of Laschamps was under the control of the Abbaye de Beaumont, whose abbess appointed the priest. After the Revolution, when the parishes were being rearranged by the Concordat, the Prefect wanted to eliminate the Laschamps chapel of ease in 1806 but the Bishop had it maintained as an independent parish of Saint-Genès-Champanelle. Built from arkose in Romanesque style, Église Saint-Nicolas dates from the 12th century. With a Latin cross floor plan, it features a single smooth barrel-vaulted nave. The entire transept is also barrel-vaulted, including on its crossing, which makes a very original combination. The choir apse features a decor with five arches with columns and capital with leaf designs. On the western façade, the rose window dates back to the 19th century. Today the church serves as a departure point for the walk to Notre-Name d’Orcival, an important pilgrimage site. The remains of a public space can be seen downhill from the church: an area in the village centre with a bakehouse, wash house, drinking fountain, well and blacksmith’s shop. Today only the bakehouse, the wash house and the drinking fountain remain. Opposite the church, a monument with an unusual form, which gave its name to the “place du Bonnet”, was built to commemorate the great fire of 17 September 1865, which ravaged multiple residences, killing 4 people and injuring 3.

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.

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.

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.

Traditional cuisine.

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 using local produce.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Situated in Corrèze, just a few minutes from the Puy de Dôme, this ground-floor apartment in the owners' house has been converted into a pleasant gîte surrounded by a pretty flower garden. Beyond the veranda, where you can enjoy your meals, the house opens onto a well-equipped kitchen (dishwasher, oven, fridge, induction hob, small appliances...) and a small living room (wifi, TV). The sleeping area comprises a bedroom (1 bed 140, linen supplied) and an adjoining shower room (shower cubicle, WC, linen supplied), to which is added a second bedroom (2 bunk beds 90). With its painted furniture giving it a country feel, without neglecting comfort, the house is an ideal base for exploring the Millevaches plateau and the Auvergne mountains. This accommodation is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.