Massif du Sancy, summit of the volcanoes
In the heart of the Auvergne, the Sancy massif rises proudly with the Puy de Sancy, the highest volcano in France. This natural gem offers a real playground for all ages, with winter sports, summer hiking and wellness breaks in the spa resorts of La Bourboule and Le Mont-Dore.
With 6 resorts with the Famille Plus label (Le Mont-Dore, Besse-Super-Besse, La Bourboule, Murol, Chambon-sur-Lac and Saint-Nectaire), the Sancy guarantees a welcome for young and old alike, activities designed for the whole family and a recognised quality of service.
Immerse yourself in a world of varied adventures, where every member of the family will find something to suit them.
Explore the Sancy massif in all seasons
Discover a unique region where nature, sport and relaxation combine to offer unforgettable experiences, summer and winter alike.
The puy de Sancy, summit of the Auvergne volcanoes
At the heart of the massif of the same name, the Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central (1,885 m) and among France's volcanoes, dominates the Auvergne with its spectacular scenery. Shaped by glaciations, it is surrounded by three emblematic glacial valleys: the Fontaine Salée, Chaudefour and the Dordogne valley, whose sculpted reliefs offer a unique terrain for exploration.
This exceptional region is also home to three nature reserves - Chaudefour, Chastreix-Sancy (Fontaine Salée) and les Sagnes and la Godivelle - all of which are havens for remarkably well-preserved flora and fauna.
The summit of the Sancy can be reached on foot via a wide variety of footpaths, but you can also take the cable car up to the summit to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Auvergne volcanoes.
The Sancy: a kingdom of winter sports for all the family
Winter transforms the massif into a veritable white paradise: downhill skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowkiting...
The resort of Le Mont-Dore, at the foot of the slopes of the Sancy, is a magnet for skiers, with its technical ski area and varied Nordic activities. With its forests, couloirs and legendary runs, it's sure to delight families and thrill-seekers alike.
At Super-Besse, a dynamic, sunny resort, skiers can enjoy a modern ski area, floodlit pistes at night, a snowpark, giant zip lines and fun activities for all ages.
Chastreix is a more intimate and natural resort, offering an unspoilt and authentic setting, ideal for a calm and rejuvenating mountain experience.
All three resorts have been awarded the Famille Plus label , offering adapted facilities, safe spaces for children and a warm welcome. Here, conviviality and the art of living extend every day spent on the snow.
Lakes and waterfalls of the Sancy: natural gems in the Parc des Volcans d'Auvergne
The Sancy massif is bursting with lakes of volcanic or glacial origin, veritable jewels of the Auvergne. Lake Pavin, deep and mysterious, is a volcanic crater surrounded by forests, perfect for peaceful walks and nature watching. Lac Chambon is a larger, family-friendly lake, offering a wide range of water sports such as pedalos, canoeing and swimming, as well as hiking trails around the lake. The Cézallier lakes, such as Bourdouze, Chauvet and La Godivelle, are unspoilt and wild, ideal for fishing, contemplation and hiking away from the crowds. These lakes are accessible and varied, each offering a unique atmosphere of relaxation, nature and volcanic panoramas, making the Sancy an ideal place to reconnect with the mountains and nature.
The Sancy massif also has a number of spectacular waterfalls, veritable natural gems in the heart of the valleys. The Queureuilh waterfall, near La Bourboule, offers a romantic setting with its waters gushing out in the middle of the forest. The Biche waterfall, easily accessible from Le Mont-Dore, enchants with its wild setting and impressive height. The waterfall at La Pérouse fascinates with the force and power of its flow, while the Grande Cascade du Mont-Dore, one of the most famous in the region, unfurls its majesty over several dozen metres.
Tips for preparing your visit
- Activities: Consult the offers on the Sancy tourist office website to plan your stay.
- Accommodation: A wide range of options, from gîtes to resort hotels. Remember to book in advance, especially in high season.
- Equipment: Appropriate clothing for the season, hiking boots or ski equipment depending on the period.
To find out more: Visit www.sancy.com to discover all the possibilities offered by the Sancy massif.
