LE PRE BAS: Nature escape at Chambon-sur-lac, Puy-de-Dôme

Lac Chambon is the starting point for this magnificent hike, which takes in the basaltic mound of Murol, which serves as a promontory for the 14th-century citadel, and the rocky "dent du Marais", offering a relaxing panorama.

A walk around a volcanic reservoir that is ideal for canoeing, sailing, fishing and swimming. A variant climbs the Tartaret volcano, from where you can admire the Dent du Marais volcanic cliffs and the Sancy massif.

Starting out from Chambon-sur-Lac, you discover plateaus based on the dairy and farm production of Saint-Nectaire. Along the way, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Lac Chambon, the Sancy massif and the glacial valley of Chadefour.

This walk takes in the beautiful glacial trough valley of Chaudefour, into which the couze Chambon (a small stream) continues on its way. The views over Chambon and the Montmie lock are a delight to discover.

The GTMC-VTT, from Murol to Saint-Alyre-ès-Montagne. The GTMC mountain bike route continues from Murol to Saint-Alyre-ès-Montagne, with the Cézallier in its sights. The views on this part of the GTMC mountain bike route plunge the cyclist into grandiose landscapes and changing atmospheres. From the beautiful medieval village of Besse, you reach the impressive Lac Pavin and then Lac de Montcineyre. After Besse, the route is very rolling, on good tracks and small roads. The route alternates between large tracks and small roads, allowing you to take time out to enjoy the scenery. We enter the Cézallier: the sharp slopes give way to the gentle, rounded curves of the immense summer pasture plateaus, taken over by herds of cows. The La Godivelle nature reserve offers peat bog landscapes, and the lakes of En-Haut and En Bas are not to be missed. We arrive at the hamlet of Jassy.

This tour takes in the Massif du Sancy, high granite plateaus covered by volcanic flows or vast expanses of grazing land with burons. Near Lac Chambon, you leave Murol, dominated by its feudal castle, for the ancient fortified village of Saurier. After a long climb, where we invite you to stop and take a look at the puy du Brionnet with its breathtaking view from the chapel on Mont Brionnet, you'll reach the Cézallier plateau. In Chassagne, a detour can be made to discover the Cistercian abbey of Mégemont. Then on to La Godivelle: a peat bog with a rich flora (Lac d'En-Bas) and a superb crater lake (Lac d'En-Haut), perfectly circular. You'll skirt Lac de Bourdouze before reaching the medieval town of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, with its Romanesque church, narrow streets and gray stone houses with slate roofs. The descent to Murol offers exceptional panoramic views. Approx. 4 hrs 08 min, average speed 20 km/h.

The fortress of Murol (14th c.) dominates the couze valley and Lac Chambon. Discover the "Roche Romaine" lava flow on the puy de Bessolles, inhabited in Gallo-Roman times (Celtic dry-stone huts).

We climb gently towards the peaks, then on to the Courbanges forest and its 2 protected species: the martagon lily and the corded lily. From the planèze, dotted with burons, there are fine panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy and Murol castle.

A hike at an altitude of 1,000 m, with wide, unobstructed views of the Serre plateau, the Sancy massif, Puy d'Alou and the Puys chain. The Gothic church of Le Vernet-Sainte-Marguerite, with its modern frescoes, is of particular interest.

A hike in one of the three glacial valleys of the Sancy massif, an unspoiled sanctuary and nature reserve since 1991. The beauty of the scenery and the wealth of flora, fauna and geology make this an exceptional site.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

From wine tasting to vineyard walks, come and spend a convivial moment at Domaine Sauvat. Annie, an artisan winemaker, will share her expertise and passion for wine with you in a unique and intimate setting. In the heart of the volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne, I welcome every visitor to Domaine Sauvat as a privileged guest. I'm Annie, and I'm passionate about sharing my terroir and my love of Pinot Noir. I like to take the time to talk, tell and share, whether it's during a free wine tasting all year round at the domaine or a walk through my vineyards. I grow three cuvées of Pinot Noir from our volcanic soil: Anthocyane, a delicate, fruity red, Nymphéa, a more intense, structured red, and Eolia, an airy, gourmet rosé. Each of these cuvées tells a part of my story and that of this unique terroir. In 2026, I've come up with new ways for you to experience the estate. You'll be able to take part in yoga sessions in the vineyards, listen to storytelling walks, learn the art of dowsing, enjoy a romantic starlit evening in the heart of the vineyard or come to an aperitif concert... I want every moment spent here to be an authentic, simple and memorable interlude. I'm also proud that the estate has been awarded the Qualidog, Vignobles & Découvertes and Bienvenue à la Ferme labels, recognizing the value of our welcome, our commitment and the quality of our experiences. I invite you to find me on Facebook and Instagram to follow the life of the estate and discover our upcoming events. I look forward to sharing a warm moment with you.

The Parc Animalier d'Auvergne is a unique reserve for rare and endangered species, with a European reputation. Over a 45-hectare area, you can learn about biodiversity and discover almost 350 rare and endangered animals of 60 different species. Come and meet snow panthers, red pandas, wolverines, tigers, Amur panthers, takins, bears, Rothschild's giraffes, Hartmann's zebras, primates, two-toed sloths, dholes, pygmy hippos, cheetahs and, more generally, 350 rare and endangered animals! The Park is set in an exceptional natural site, where you can admire many incredible views over the Cézallier and discover the various actions put in place for animal welfare and species conservation, while visiting a site that is proving its difference on a European scale. Indeed, the Parc Animalier d'Auvergne stands out in many respects: it is the European park most involved in the conservation of rare and endangered species, with over 80% of the species it hosts being part of a European breeding program. The first park to house Thorold's deer, it also boasts Europe's largest enclosure for Amur panthers. The park was also behind the creation of Science Nature, an association dedicated to ethology, and Biodiv'Educ, another association dedicated to learning about biodiversity through new technologies. Unique mixed-use enclosures and a wide range of immersive activities enable visitors to familiarize themselves with the animals (family safaris, special encounters, vacation courses, etc.). A must-see!

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

Discovery of a building classified in part as a historical monument. Built between 1817 and 1823 on the site of the Roman baths, the architecture of the building is neo-Byzantine. The building has remained unchanged for two centuries. Only the structures have been adapted to meet more modern care techniques. You'll discover polychrome paintings and mosaics, some dating from the 19th century, pediments and architraves, as well as Gallo-Roman remains unearthed when the current spa was built. The reputation of the Le Mont-Dore spa is well established. Respiratory and rheumatological ailments are treated thanks to the ferruginous and siliceous chloro-bicarbonate waters that emerge at the very heart of the establishment, and to the gases extracted from the griffons. Since the mid-19th century, this temple to health has never ceased to amaze!

In addition to the exceptional architecture of the thermal baths, the town has a number of hotels and villas dating from the 19th century as well as a funicular railway dating from the same period, which allows you to become a socialite of the last century during your journey. Here you can discover the current Le Mont-Dore thermal baths, the successor to the ancient Gallo-Roman buildings. Sumptuous and luxurious, this new temple of water dedicated to health was built by architect Charles Ledru in 1817, at the instigation of Préfet Ramond and the département. Do you know why this establishment is so gloomy? It's because it was built from andesite stone, a magmatic rock found in volcanic massifs. From the outside, the neo-classical building's architecture is austere, so simple and uncluttered: on the first 2 levels, a colonnade of semicircular arches, topped by 3 pediments (characteristic of Belle Epoque architecture). On the other hand, the interior architecture is rich in colorful decorations dedicated to water (mosaics, paintings...) and Roman remains. Part of the building is listed as a Historic Monument. Opposite the Thermes stands the former Palace Sarciron: one of Le Mont-Dore's oldest hotels. The old hotel was gradually extended from 1883 onwards. The buildings are arranged around a rectangular inner courtyard. A veranda adjoining the courtyard serves as a winter garden. The building occupies an almost complete quadrilateral, with three main façades opening onto the heart of the resort at the time: the spa, the spa park and the casino. Le Funiculaire du Capucin: listed as a Historic Monument in 1984, this funicular and electric railway is the oldest in France (opened on July 1, 1898). It retains all the charm of the Belle Epoque, with its two green-painted wooden cabins, pulled by the same cable, which travel in opposite directions on a single track that splits halfway along the route to allow them to pass each other. If you look up as you stroll through the village's narrow lanes, you'll see a wealth of ornamentation: friezes, mosaics, colorful ceramics, often with plant or animal motifs. These architectural elements are often romantic in style, sometimes exotic, inviting you to escape. Our tip: find a detailed heritage trail on the back of the city map, available free of charge from the tourist office.

The Guéry plateau invites you to discover an exceptional natural environment. Bordered from east to west by the Lac du Guéry and the Banne d'Ordanche (1512 m), it offers a wide variety of natural environments, due to the complexity of the terrain, climate, altitude, soil type and exposure of the slopes. In just a few meters, you'll pass from lake to forest, and then to mountain pasture plateaus. The scenery is fabulous, with views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Dordogne valley. A 4-hour walk (signposted) will take you all the way around.

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.

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.

Along the Couze Pavin, this picturesque, formerly fortified village boasts a delightful 15th-century baffle bridge. 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.

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.

Located in the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, between Sancy and Cézallier, the Association des Pailhats de Courgoul is enhancing the site and telling the story of a landscape of dry stone terraces (pailhats) and the people who created it. In the gorges at the entrance to Courgoul, the pailhats tell the story of the know-how and courage of the valley's inhabitants, as well as the richness of this natural and landscaped environment. Committed to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, a refuge for the French League for the Protection of Birds and promoted by passionate volunteers, this site offers visitors the treasures of a preserved natural environment. An educational apiary completes the visit. Thanks to the collective efforts of the local inhabitants, you can sample the jams and mountain honey produced in the village and sold at the café associatif.

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).

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Traditional cuisine using local produce.

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.

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.

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

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.

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