Winter trails: 10 walks to enjoy to the full
Winter reveals a different side to the beauty of the Puy-de-Dôme: powdery peaks, silent forests and sparkling panoramas. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, make the most of the snow-covered paths to discover the Auvergne's natural beauty under its winter coat.
1. Walk around Lac d'Aydat
Discover Lac d'Aydat in all its winter glory: calm waters, volcanic silhouettes and panoramic views of the Puy de Dôme. This gentle, accessible walk takes you through wetland footbridges, lookouts and forest paths. It's the ideal way to get some fresh air in the middle of nature, admire the winter wildlife and enjoy the magic of the scenery.
2. The Clermont hills
Take a 4.1km walk in the hills above Clermont to discover a volcanic site steeped in history.
With its natural paths, archaeological remains and uninterrupted views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Limagne, this walk offers a natural interlude just outside the city. It's an easy walk, ideal for getting some fresh air in winter.
3. The Sauterre rock
A family walk lasting around 1 hour 45 minutes leading to the summit of an emblematic basalt peak. From the Roche de Sauterre, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy, the Artense and the Combrailles. A concentration of volcanic history and winter landscapes, ideal for a gentle getaway.
4. Etang Neuf
At the gateway to the Creuse region, take a peaceful stroll through unspoilt countryside. Between forests, pastures and wooden footbridges, you'll reach Étang Neuf, a vast 22-hectare natural lake, ideal for a nature break in winter. Silence, reflections and serenity are the order of the day.
5. Puy d'Alou
Head for the heights of Le Vernet-Sainte-Marguerite for a hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Sancy massif, the Chaîne des Puys and the Chaudefour valley. Between open plateaux, mysterious menhirs, a charming village and a Gothic church with contemporary frescoes, this loop offers a digest of authentic, wild and luminous Auvergne.
6. The Chopine and des Gouttes puys
In the heart of the Puys range, this 6km forest walk takes you gently up to the interlocking craters of the Gouttes and Chopine puys. It's a gradual climb, with a relaxing woodland atmosphere and, at the top, a panoramic view of the Puy de Dôme, the Sancy, the Combrailles and the surrounding volcanic landscapes. It's the perfect way to enjoy winter in the fresh air.
7. The Billeyre valley
A pretty loop in the foothills of the Forez mountains, perfect for an easy winter outing. This hike offers beautiful views of Valcivières, the Livradois mountains and the Forez ridges. You'll pass through forests, pastures and snowy clearings, with the murmur of the Billeyre stream in the background.
This is also the land of the Fourme d'Ambert cheese: a nature and gourmet walk!
8. The Château de la Faye
This loop hike takes you above the Giroux valley, through forests and picturesque hamlets. Château de la Faye, dating from the XIIᵉ century, is the highlight of the route. From the paths and viewpoints, admire the panoramic views over the Forez mountains, the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif. It's the ideal way to combine history, nature and beautiful scenery.
9. The Pic d'Usson
Discover the hilltop village ofUsson and its Romanesque church, before climbing the peak to admire its unique basalt organs. The hike offers exceptional views of the Monts Dore, the Cézallier, the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif. An easy loop that combines historical heritage, geology and breathtaking scenery.
10. Chemin de la Reine Margot
Follow in the footsteps of the Roman road linking Clermont to the Cantal and Aquitaine regions. This easy walk takes you through hamlets, bread ovens, calvaries and mid-mountain gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sancy massif and discover the local heritage, with churches, fountains and dry-stone walls.
