L’Echappée volcanique

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

Step 1 : From Volvic to Egaules – Where Stone and Water Meet
Your adventure begins in the heart of the Volvic stone formations and spring, starting at the Maison de site du Goulet. The route winds through the Cheires Nature Reserve and the Volvic caves, winding its way through forests and volcanic flows.
The path gradually climbs, already offering beautiful views. Near the Volvic train station, you’ll pass by a stonemason’s workshop. Just a few more kilometers and you’ll reach Égaules.

Step 2 : From Égaules to Orcines – In the Footsteps of Fountains, Watering Troughs, and Washhouses
The route winds from village to hamlet, dotted with about ten fountains, watering troughs, and washhouses made of Volvic stone. Once essential to the lives of the locals and their herds, these water sources serve as a reminder of the heritage of the Chaîne des Puys and will accompany you throughout the route.
Gradually, the landscape opens up to reveal the Chaîne des Puys, with the Puy de Dôme dominating the horizon. You’ll then reach Orcines, the gateway to this volcanic giant.

Step 3 : A Stop at the Puy de Dôme – A Unique Panorama of the Chaîne des Puys
From Orcines, head toward the Panoramique des Dômes.
This is a must-see stop to admire the Puy de Dôme, the iconic giant of Auvergne. You can leave your bikes behind for a short trip to the summit of the Puy de Dôme, either on foot or aboard the rack-and-pinion train.
At the summit : an exceptional 360° panoramic view unfolds before you, taking in the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy Massif, the Forez Mountains, and the Limagne Plain.

Step 4 : From Orcines to the Puys de la Vache and Lassolas – Crossing the Volcanic Plateaus
This section of the route takes you deep into the heart of the Chaîne des Puys and its volcanic plateaus. There are two possible routes :
– The main route via Pardon, which is shorter, winds through open pastures that contrast with the forests.
– Alternative route via Laschamps (+3.5 km), offering spectacular views of the Puy de Dôme. A stop is a must at the “Chabana” spring, which flows directly into the Saint-Aubin Chapel and whose water is renowned for its medicinal properties.
Both options converge at the foot of the twin volcanoes, Puy de la Vache and Puy de Lassolas—iconic volcanoes that stand as spectacular reminders of past volcanic activity.
Continue on your way toward Montlosier.