The most beautiful summer hikes in the Puy-de-Dôme
This summer, explore the most beautiful trails in the Puy-de-Dôme, in the heart of Auvergne. Volcanoes, forests, gorges and panoramic views await you on 14 walks selected to suit all levels.
Easy walks lasting around 2 hours to enjoy this summer
1. The Cirque de la Fontaine Salée : a spectacular natural show
Distance 8 km | Duration 2h15
A wild glacial valley, breathtaking views of the Sancy and a total immersion in the heart of nature. An accessible walk that’s a real feast for the eyes from start to finish.
2. Roche de Sauterre : a spectacular view of the volcanoes
Distance 4,5 km | Duration 1h45
In under 2 hours, reach an exceptional vantage point overlooking the Auvergne volcanoes. A short, accessible walk offering stunning scenery.
3. The Artière Gorges : a refreshing and wild hike in the heart of the volcanoes
Distance 8 km | Duration 2h30
A hidden trail amongst rocks, streams and woodland, where the water guides your steps through a landscape sculpted by time.
As a bonus : on arrival, incredible views of Gergovie and the Auvergne volcanoes.
4. The Puy de Monténard : a 360° panorama
Distance 5 km | Duration 1h30
From this volcanic peak, the view opens up to take in the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy massif and the vast surrounding plateaus. A short but spectacular route leading to a natural viewpoint at the heart of the Auvergne countryside.
5. The Sans-Souci Valley : a refreshing break
Distance 4 km | Duration 1h45
Fancy a quick and easy break in the countryside ? Follow the Sardon stream through the shade of the woods and let yourself be carried away by the soothing atmosphere of this little valley. With its mix of woodland, rushing water and lush greenery, it’s the perfect walk for an effortless escape.
Moderate walks to make the most of the summer : between 2 and 4 hours
1. Dauzat-sur-Vodable : a hilltop chapel and panoramic views
Distance 11,5 km | Durée 3h15
A route that takes you to a volcanic peak overlooking the surrounding countryside. Winding through valleys, forests and offering stunning views, the route also reveals natural springs along the way.
2. The Menat Bridge : a walk along the Sioule
Distance 9,5 km | Duration 3h
Follow the meandering course of the Sioule and discover the peaceful atmosphere of Menat, with its old stone bridge, lush green views and charming villages. A rejuvenating walk, ideal for combining nature and heritage.
3. Puy de Combegrasse and the Espinasse crater : between volcanoes and peat bogs
Distance 10 km | Duration 3h
From Puy de Combegrasse to the Espinasse crater, this circular walk immerses you in a spectacular volcanic landscape of ridges, panoramic views and unspoilt nature. An easy and exotic hike to explore the secrets of the Auvergne’s volcanoes.
4. Issandolanges : a journey to the heart of the Middle Ages
Distance 12 km | Duration 3 h 30
Amidst medieval ruins, a forgotten mill and woodland paths, this walk takes you on a journey through 1,000 years of history. A charming circular walk where heritage and nature come together along the way.
5. Le Puy d'Alou : where wide-open spaces meet volcanic views
Distance 10 km | Duration 3h
With its high-altitude plateau, charming villages and spectacular views of the Sancy and the Chaîne des Puys, this walk offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast landscapes of Auvergne. An ideal circular walk for getting up a bit higher and breathing in the fresh air to your heart’s content.
Hiking for fitness : adventures lasting over 4 hours to explore the Auvergne
1. From Hell to the Spinning Wheels : between nature and working-class heritage
Distance 11,5 km | Duration 4h15
From the Durolle Gorges to the valley’s old spinning wheels, this walk immerses you in the fascinating history of Thiers’ cutlery-making industry. A challenging route combining wild landscapes, industrial heritage and exceptional views.
2. The Luguet Trail : an immersion in the wide-open spaces of the Cézallier
Distance 14 km | Duration 4h30
In the heart of the Cézallier, this walk takes you through wild, unspoilt landscapes, passing through mountain pastures, valleys and peat bogs. An outdoor adventure rewarded with exceptional panoramic views of the Sancy, the Cantal and the Chaîne des Puys.
3. The Puys de Jumes, de la Coquille and des Gouttes : an immersive journey into the heart of the volcanoes
Distance 15 km | Duration 5h
Ridges, forests and ancient craters punctuate this spectacular hike through the Puys de Jumes, de la Coquille and des Gouttes. An unmissable route for admiring the full beauty of the Chaîne des Puys.
4. The Four Lords’ Boundary Stone : between the waterfall and the peaks of the Sancy
From the spectacular Trador waterfall to the panoramic views from the Banne d’Ordanche, this hike takes in the massif’s most beautiful landscapes. A challenging route that rewards every effort with exceptional views of the Sancy, the Dordogne and the Chaîne des Puys.
