Hiker with orange bag on the Dômes loop

Small budget: ideas for eco holidays in Puy-de-Dôme

The Puy-de-Dôme invites you to enjoy a holiday rich in discovery, even on a tight budget! Explore this land of volcanoes and unspoilt nature without compromising your finances.

With its spectacular scenery, free or affordable activities and good value accommodation, the Puy-de-Dôme is a great place to explore with peace of mind.

  • Theme(s) : volcanism, low budget, family, not to be missed
  • Duration: 1 weekend - 2 days
  • Budget: economical
  • Best season: spring, summer, autumn
  • How to get there: by car, on foot

Day 1: Discovering natural treasures

Immerse yourself in the Parc Naturel des Volcans d'Auvergne with a first day combining nature and relaxation on a budget.

Morning: Hike to Puy de Dôme

Admire breathtaking panoramas as you climb (free on foot) the Puy de Dôme at Orcine.

From up there, discover this natural jewel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Chaîne des Puys and the impressive Limagne fault.

See the hiking trails

Noon: Picnic with a view

Pack a packed lunch and enjoy lunch overlooking the volcanoes, whileadmiring the aerial ballet of paragliders as they fly overhead. There are equipped areas available free of charge.

Afternoon: Exploring the Lemptégy volcano

Discover this unique open-air volcano on an economical guided tour.

Explore the ancient volcanic chimneys and enjoy the fun activities.

Book your visit

Lemptegy volcano
Lemptégy volcano

Evening

Watch the sun set over Lake Servière, a volcanic lake surrounded by a pretty forest.

Find out more about the lake

Dinner & Overnight stay : Gite du lac de Servières

Relax in this charming gîte located close to the lake at a low price.

Book your night

Lake Servières
Lake Servières

Day 2: Heritage and strolling

A day to explore the city's rich history and relax.

Morning: Visit the heritage of Clermont-Ferrand

  • Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Cathedral (Free)
    Start at the imposing Gothic cathedral, famous for its black volcanic stone and dazzling stained glass windows.
    Admire the atmosphere on the terraces of Place de la Victoire.
    ⇒ Duration: 45 min to 1 h
  • Notre-Dame-du-Port (Free)
    Just a 10-minute walk away, discover this exceptional Romanesque church.
    Built in the 12th century, it is remarkable for its bright blonde stone, colourful mosaics, sculpted capitals and peaceful atmosphere.
    The ambulatory is a treasure trove of Romanesque art.
    ⇒ Duration: 30 to 45 min

Information on monuments in Clermont-Ferrand

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the local brasseries in Place de la Victoire or Place de Jaude for a low-price menu.

You'll find traditional Auvergne dishes such as truffade and potato pâté.

  • Budget: €10 to €15 per person.

Book your table

Departure

The weekend comes to an end in the early afternoon, light-hearted and full of memories.

Good to know

  • The climb up Puy de Dôme is free on foot, and many activities are available at reduced rates thanks to special offers available on the tourist office website.
    Plan your stay in low season to take advantage of even lower prices and avoid the crowds.
  • The city centre is well served by public transport, but distances are easily covered on foot.
The Chaîne des Puys in glorious summer sunshine
Chaîne des Puys

We like

  • Affordability: a holiday designed for those on a budget, without compromising on the quality of the discoveries.
  • The diversity of activities: between volcanoes, heritage and local flavours, every moment is rich in emotion.
  • The relaxed, friendly atmosphere of Clermont-Ferrand's old town.

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