Chaîne des Puys - Faille de Limagne: An exceptional UNESCO site
On 2 July 2018, the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault, a key geological heritage site, was added to UNESCO's prestigious World Heritage list. A site of exceptional value that bears witness to the tectonic forces that have shaped our planet. This move, initiated by the Department of Puy-de-Dôme, underlines not only the scientific importance of the site, but also the need to preserve this unique environment while meeting the needs of visitors and local residents alike.
Why visit the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault?
With its remarkable relief and unique biodiversity, the Chaîne des Puys - Faille de Limagne is a natural treasure trove that will delight nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.
A remarkable natural site in the heart of Auvergne
The Chaîne des Puys - Faille de Limagne is an exceptional natural site, perfectly illustrating the main geological processes involved in the formation of the Earth. This volcanic field of 80 perfectly aligned volcanoes stretches over 32 kilometres long and 4 kilometres wide. These volcanoes, including the puy de Dôme (the emblematic summit), the puy Pariou and the puy de la Vache, offer a beautiful diversity of shapes and landscapes.
Inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List has meant that measures have been put in place to reconcile the preservation of these exceptional natural landscapes with visitor facilities. Developments have been designed to allow visitors to discover this area while respecting the environment and preserving the quality of life of its inhabitants.
A site to raise awareness of geology and the environment
As well as its geological value, the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne Fault is a great place to learn about the environment and geology. The site is a veritable open-air laboratory, allowing visitors toexplore the natural processes that have forged this unique landscape.
" These are volcanoes inside something much bigger: the fracturing of a continent in two", says Yves Michelin, agronomist and geographer. The Chaîne des Puys, with its volcanoes on a fault-lined plateau, bears witness to the complex geological history of our planet.
A place for contemplation and discovery
Whether you're a geology enthusiast, a hiker or a nature lover, the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault offers magnificent panoramas and total immersion in an exceptional natural site. A place where every visit becomes a geology lesson.
What to do around the Chaîne des Puys and the Limagne fault?
The area around the Chaîne des Puys offers a multitude of activities, from hiking and aerial sports to cultural sites and local specialities.
Hiking and nature excursions
Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the signposted trails that cross the volcanoes and offer exceptional panoramic views. The Puy de Dôme, with its summit accessible on foot or by cogwheel train, is a must-see. The Puy Pariou, with its perfectly round crater, is also very popular with hikers. These routes allow you to discover the grandiose volcanic landscapes and enjoy a moment of relaxation in the heart of nature.
Hot-air ballooning: a unique view of the volcanoes
For an unforgettable experience, fly over the Chaîne des Puys in a hot-air balloon.
The ball is a whole organisation
- Gondola capacity: 2 to 10 passengers
- Departures: usually at sunrise or sunset (5am to 8am or 4pm to 7pm)
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- This activity is reserved for days when the weather is fine.
Explore the GR® and GR® de Pays trails
Touring the Puy-de-Dôme is an unforgettable adventure. On foot over several days, let yourself be seduced by the richly diverse landscapes of the Auvergne. Follow the signposts on the GR (long-distance footpaths) to soak up the atmosphere and smells that slowly reveal themselves, while experiencing memorable moments on these emblematic routes.
