Visit Puy-de-Dôme: Volcanoes, Nature Trails, and Cultural Heritage
The Puy-de-Dôme department, located in the heart of the Auvergne region in central France, is a unique tourist destination that combines spectacular natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor activities for all seasons. Dominated by the famous Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is especially known for its impressive chain of extinct volcanoes, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences for nature lovers.
About the discovery of volcanoes
The Chaîne des Puys–Limagne Fault is a unique geological ensemble made up of around eighty long-extinct volcanoes, whose varied shapes form an exceptional landscape. Located in the heart of the Massif Central, this remarkable alignment of cones, domes, and craters offers a rare and clear insight into the geological history of our planet.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2018, the site stands out as an outstanding example of the processes linked to the splitting of a continental plate. According to UNESCO, “no other place on Earth illustrates this geological phenomenon so clearly.”
Beyond its scientific importance, the Chaîne des Puys is an inspiring natural destination. It invites families and visitors of all ages to explore, enjoy outdoor activities, and reconnect with nature in a spectacular and educational environment shaped over millions of years.
More information about Clermont Auvergne Volcans here
The Puy de Dôme : A Legend in the Heart of France
Vulcania theme park
Lack Pavin in Auvergne : hick, fishing and légend
Walking is travelling
In the Puy-de-Dôme, hiking is much more than a leisure activity: it's a philosophy.
Here, people walk to escape the day-to-day, to reconnect with themselves, to breathe. In these volcanic lands, shaped by fire and softened by time, hiking becomes the art of experiencing the land and reading its history.
Easy to organise walking holidays
What makes the experience so accessible?
Adaptability at every level. Thanks to a network of stopover accommodation and various services (luggage transport, picnic baskets...) everyone can organise their stay at their own pace, over several days.
Gentle progress is the order of the day ere: set off with peace of mind, knowing that your luggage is taken care of, progress at your own space, enjoy the scenery without restraint, make a diversion through a village, enjoy a Saint-Nectaire cheese on the farm...
- The Dômes loop. Walking in the heart of world heritage. 49 or 62 km | 2 to 3 days
- The red cow loop. An ode to contemplation. 135 or 181 km | 8 to 11 days.
- The Sancy loop. Pure Auvergne. 39 or 85 km | 2 to 6 days
- The GTVA. 3 summits for a large-scale adventure. 210 km | 11 days.
By bike for one or several days
Discover the Puy-de-Dôme from a new perspective by bike. With its spectacular volcanic landscapes, quiet country roads, and well-marked cycling routes, the area is a true paradise for cyclists of all levels. Ride through the heart of the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy breathtaking views over ancient volcanoes and rolling valleys. From family-friendly greenways to legendary climbs made famous by the Tour de France, the Puy-de-Dôme offers unforgettable cycling experiences.
Whether you prefer road cycling, mountain biking, or electric bikes, each route invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
Cycling here is more than a sport it’s an immersive way to explore an exceptional natural and cultural destination.
Circuit VTT during 4 days- Pays d’Issoire Cézallier side | Quite hard | 129km | Max elevation 1,512m
Grande traversée du Livradois-Forez à VTT | Moyen 6j - 233,7km | +5,314m / -5,313m
Combrailles MTB Tour in 6 Days: Pedal Between Lakes and Volcanoes. 209 km | Total ascent : 3,695 m
GTMC by VTT. Great Mountain Bike Crossing of Massif Central
Via Allier. Undulating intermediate route along wild Allier River.
Top sites to visit
Discover the top sites to visit in the Puy‑de‑Dôme with the Objectif Auvergne experience. Explore L’Aventure Michelin, an interactive journey through the history of the famous Michelin brand. Step inside the Volcan de Lemptégy for a rare adventure inside a real volcano. At the Panoramique des Dômes, enjoy panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys from the summit by panoramic train. Dive into nature and meet wildlife at the Parc Animalier d’Auvergne. Wander through the mysterious Grotte de la Pierre de Volvic and learn about the region’s geology and legends. Discover medieval life at the Château de Murol, then unwind at Royatonic, a volcanic thermal spa destination.
These seven sites offer a rich blend of culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Auvergne.
- Must-visit sites www.objectif-auvergne.fr
Art and history trought towns and villages
Discover the Petites Cités de Caractère and the Towns of Art and History of the Puy-de-Dôme, where heritage and authenticity meet. Stroll through charming villages with stone houses, narrow streets, and lively squares that reflect centuries of history.
Experience the prestige of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France" by visiting gems like Usson, once the place of exile for Queen Margot, perched on a volcanic peak with its majestic panoramas, and Montpeyroux, a stunning hilltop village known for its golden arkose stone and medieval keep.
Explore towns officially labeled “Towns of Art and History”, where remarkable architecture, monuments, and cultural sites tell the story of Auvergne’s rich past. Romanesque churches, medieval fortresses, historic town centers, and traditional craftsmanship create an inspiring cultural journey. Whether you enjoy guided tours or independent exploration, these towns invite you to slow down and experience local life, culture, and traditions.
From quiet villages to vibrant historic towns, the Puy-de-Dôme offers a timeless and authentic discovery for curious travelers.
- Historical route of the châteaux d’Auvergne - Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
- Must-see churches and landmarks
