Welcome to the magnificent department of Puy-de-Dôme, in the heart of the Auvergne, a region renowned for its volcanoes, breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, the Puy-de-Dôme has everything to seduce you. The riches of this département can also be discovered by following themed routes: the route des villes d'eaux, the route des vins d'Auvergne and the route des fromages fermiers. In this article, we invite you to discover the department's 18 must-sees. Take full advantage of everything the Puy-de-Dôme has to offer!
1. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit Château de Murol
Situated on a rocky spur, the Château de Murol is a 12th-century fortified castle of remarkable architecture that dominates the village of Murol and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. When you visit Château de Murol, you'll discover the different parts of the castle, such as the watchtower, the weapons room, the chapel and the seigneurial apartments. You can also learn more about the history of the castle and the region, thanks to the explanatory panels and activities on offer. For an even more immersive experience, Château de Murol offers costumed guided tours, where actors in period costume bring to life the history of the château and its occupants. Children can also take part in fun and educational workshops, such as an introduction to archery or coat-of-arms making.
If you're a fan of Kaamelott, you can't spend a vacation in the Auvergne without visiting this film location!
2. Climb to the summit of Puy de Dôme
The Puy de Dôme volcano is the emblem of the Auvergne region and a must-see for nature lovers and hikers. Reaching an altitude of 1,465 metres, this volcano, dormant for 6,000 years, offers a breathtaking view of the Chaîne des Puys and the Limagne plain. There are several options for reaching the summit of Puy de Dôme. The more athletic can take the sentier des Muletiers, a 2.5 km hiking trail that winds its way up through the forest. The less adventurous can opt for the cogwheel train, which takes 15 minutes from the starting station to the summit. Once at the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Auvergne volcanoes, the Forez mountains and the Cantal mountains. You can also discover the Temple de Mercure, a Gallo-Roman edifice dedicated to the god of trade and travelers.
Discover our article Top 13 of the most beautiful hikes to do in Auvergne!
3. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Lake Pavin
An ancient volcanic chimney, Lac Pavin is a unique lake in terms of its shape (a perfect circle), its color (from green to blue depending on the season) and the purity of its waters. It's an ideal site for nature lovers and hikers, with a 3.2 km trail circling the lake and offering breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding forests. Lac Pavin is also a site of legend and mystery. The lake is said to be home to a sunken city, the ancient Besse, whose ruins can be seen at the bottom of the water, and the slightest pebble thrown into the lake is said to trigger impetuous storms.
4. Going to the top of Puy de Sancy
Puy de Sancy is the highest point in the Massif Central and the Puys chain, at 1,886 meters. It offers exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys below. There are several ways to reach the summit of Puy de Sancy. You can take the marked hiking trails, which take around 2 hours to walk to the summit, or opt for the cable car, which takes you to the top in just 5 minutes. Once you've reached the summit, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Monts Dore, Monts du Cantal and Monts du Forez.
In winter, the Puy de Sancy is transformed into a renowned ski resort, with pistes to suit all levels and activities such as snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
5. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit Montpeyroux, a typical Auvergne village
Montpeyroux is a picturesque medieval village classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", visible from afar thanks to its 13th-century keep standing 33 meters high. As soon as you enter, the magnificent porch sets the scene: a medieval journey awaits! As you stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of Montpeyroux, you'll discover magnificent lava-stone houses, fortified gates and turrets dating back to the Middle Ages. Another not-to-be-missed site is the Château de Montpeyroux, which dominates the village. It was built in the 13th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Take the opportunity to sample traditional Auvergne dishes in the village's restaurants, such as truffade, aligot and potée auvergnate!
6. The Chaudefour Valley, the most beautiful valley in Auvergne
Located in the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, the Vallée de Chaudefour is an exceptional natural site. Considered the most beautiful valley in the Auvergne, this glacial valley, carved out of volcanic rock over 10,000 years ago, is surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, offering breathtaking scenery. To discover the Chaudefour Valley, there are several signposted hiking trails. You can take the Dalle trail, which leads to the Dalle waterfall, or the Crête trail, which offers panoramic views over the valley. The valley is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including chamois, marmots and edelweiss.
7. Climb to Puy Pariou
Around 8,000 years old, Puy de Pariou is a young volcano rising to an altitude of 1,210 meters. Its crater is the deepest in the Chaîne des Puys, but we don't go down there to preserve it. In the heart of the Chaine des Puys, now preserved (there are only 2 access points left), it's a pleasant walk accessible from a number of starting points. You'll discover a real (sleeping) volcano with a crater. From the top, you'll enjoy a superb view of the surrounding volcanoes, from the Forez mountains to the Combrailles, from the Limagne plain to the Sancy. The ascent is easy, via wooden staircases, and can be enjoyed by all the family.
8. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit the village of Usson
Usson is one of the most beautiful villages in the Puy de Dôme and a must for lovers of history, architecture and nature. Queen Margot lived here for twenty years! Stroll through the village's narrow, cobbled streets and you'll discover magnificent lava-stone houses, fortified gates and turrets dating back to the Middle Ages. The partly Romanesque church, dedicated to Saint Maurice, boasts two exceptional paintings, one by the Flemish school and the other by the painter Deutsch. Don't miss them! Go as far as the 14-metre-high Virgin Mary, where a wall of basalt organs offers a stunning 360-degree view of the region.
9. Stroll through the Vallée des Saints
The Puy de Dôme is one of our top mountain destinations where you can spend the summer in the fresh air, and offers some great walks like the Vallée des Saints trail in Boudes, which leads to some unique and surprising geological formations . Surrounded by trees that create a striking contrast between the red of the fairy chimneys and the green of the vegetation, it's a walk that's well worth the detour. The fairy chimney trail, which starts at the parking lot below, is signposted and fairly easy. It's a 5.8 km walk with a vertical drop of around 100 metres. Along the way, you can discover the Romanesque Bard spring.
10. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit the Michelin Adventure Museum
Are you on a family vacation in the area ? Discover the fascinating history of the Michelin company and its impact on the Auvergne region by visiting the Michelin Adventure. You'll be transported into the past of Auvergne's industry thanks to an immersive 2,000 m² scenographic tour. You'll be able to listen to a conversation with the Michelin brothers during the Industrial Revolution, smell rubber to understand this emblematic company material, and much more. L'Aventure Michelin gives you the chance to discover the company's history, from the famous Micheline of the 1930s to the innovations of tomorrow. The visit wouldn't be complete without a photo with the Michelin Man himself at the end! In summer, let yourself be carried away by the magic of L'Aventure Michelin's night-time shows.
11. The Gergovie plateau
The Gergovie plateau, located in La Roche-Blanche, is a popular place to take a stroll for its breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Famous for the battle between Vercingetorix and Caesar, the plateau offers visitors an exceptional panorama of the Chaîne des Puys, Sancy, Limagne and Forez. A hiking trail takes the whole family on a leisurely tour of the plateau. Interpretation trails with lookouts and interpretive panels are also available for an immersive visit. The "Puy-de-Dôme Terre d'archéologie" mobile app completes the experience. In summer, guided tours of the plateau are organized by the Musée de Gergovie, offering an enriching cultural and historical experience.
12. Follow the Auvergne PDO cheese route
Auvergne is a region renowned for its cheeses, with five Protected Designations of Origin (PDO): Cantal, Salers, Saint-Nectaire, Bleu d'Auvergne and Fourme d'Ambert. To discover the secrets behind these delicious cheeses, the Route des fromages AOP d'Auvergne offers 35 stops at farms, dairies and maturing cellars, where you can take part in cheese tastings. Along the way, you'll cross a number of Auvergne regions, including Livradois-Forez, Sancy and Cantal. You can also visit castles and relax in spas.
Almost convinced? Discover the 5 reasons to follow the Auvergne PDO Cheese Route!
13. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, the main city of the Auvergne region, is a harmonious blend of history and modernity. The city is known for its medieval charm, with cobbled streets and lava-stone buildings. As you explore the city, you'll discover many historic and cultural sites, such as the Gothic cathedral of Clermont-Ferrand,the Roger-Quilliot art museum and the Bargoin museum . The city is also renowned for its industrial heritage, with the Michelin factory playing a major role in the city's history. To find out more, read our article on What to do in Clermont-Ferrand? 17 must-sees.
14. Saint-Nectaire
Saint-Nectaire is not only known for its famous cheese, it's also a charming little town marked by the presence of a salt spring and thermal springs. In 1806, it was officially recognized as a spa. The town's architecture bears witness to its prestigious past. Not to be missed is the church of Saint-Nectaire, in the upper part of the town, which rises majestically into the sky. It is one of five major churches in the region. The Parc du Dolmen also offers a pleasant place to relax. Here you'll find the town's curiosity: the petrifying fountains. These fountains have the unique ability to transform objects immersed in them into stone. Last but not least, you can't leave Saint-Nectaire without tasting its famous cheese, one of the most appreciated in France and the world.
15. Visit the Vulcania theme park
Vulcania is the only park of its kind in Europe devoted entirely to volcanoes and planet Earth. It offers a variety of activities, tours and shows for all ages, providing an exciting and educational experience in the heart of Auvergne's volcanoes.
The park is divided into three thematic universes: volcanoes, natural phenomena and the Earth in space. Every season, new attractions are added to the existing ones, such as Le Réveil des géants d'Auvergne, Abyss Explorer and Dragon Ride. In 2021, Namazu, a family roller coaster on the theme of earthquakes, joined the park. Since 2023, Vulcania has boasted France's largest planetarium, with an immersive dome 22 metres in diameter for exceptional projection quality. As for the little ones, they can enjoy areas accessible from the age of 3, such as the Pitoufeu House and Gallery, the Cité des Enfants and the outdoor play areas.
16. What to do in the Puy de Dôme? Visit Royat
Royat is a charming spa town in the Puy-de-Dôme region, renowned for its hot springs and Belle Époque buildings. From the tourist office, you have two options for visiting the town. Option 1: head upstream along the Tiretaine to discover the village and its12th-century fortified church, built on a lava flow. Option 2: follow the current. You'll pass by the Eugénie buvette and the Velleda spring, then the thermal baths inspired by ancient basilicas. Continue to the casino-théâtre before crossing the river to discover the Roman thermal baths and the Saint-Mart spring. Head back up towards the main boulevards, passing under the viaduct to see the hotels and villas of the Belle Époque.
17. Guéry State Forest, in the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park
It's one of the most beautiful forests in France. During your stay in the Puy de Dôme, explore the trails of the Guéry state forest, located in the heart of the Parc naturel régional des volcans d'Auvergne. Between the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif, this forest of beech, spruce and fir is the ideal place to enjoy nature to the full. This forest is particularly appreciated for its volcanic character and impressive geological formations, such as the Tuilière and Sanadoire rocks. Get ready for a breathtaking view of Lac de Guéry and the surrounding green landscape.
18. Lac de Chambon, one of France's most beautiful lakes
Lac de Chambon is one of the most beautiful lakes in France. Formed by the eruption of the Tartaret volcano some 8,000 years ago, it now offers a protected natural setting for bathing, with a beautiful sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming in complete safety. There's no shortage of activities around the Chambon-sur-Lac lake: hiking, cycling, fishing, kayaking, windsurfing and pedal-boating are just some of the options for enjoying nature to the full. After a good swim, children can have fun on the playground, while parents can relax on the terrace with a breathtaking view of the Auvergne volcanoes.
What to do with children in the Puy de Dôme?
The Puy de Dôme is an ideal destination for a cheap weekend break in France , and is also one of our top destinations to visit with children, with numerous activities and attractions to suit all ages.
Here are just a few ideas of things to do in the Puy-de-Dôme with children:
- Visit Vulcania, Europe's only theme park dedicated to volcanoes and planet Earth , with activities, tours and shows for all ages. Children will love the interactive and fun attractions, such as the Dragon Ride and the Abyss Explorer.
- Discover the Parc animalier d'Auvergne, a 25-hectare zoological park housing over 500 animals of 100 different species, including wolves, lynx, deer and marmots. Children can observe the animals in their natural environment and learn more about their way of life.
- Explore local caves such as Grotte de la Pierre de Volvic and Grotte de Jonas. Children can discover the geological wonders of the region and feel like real adventurers.
- Swimming in the region's many lakes and ponds, such as Lac d'Aydat and Lac Chambon. The latter offer water sports activities and safe bathing beaches.
- Take a family hike on one of the many trails suitable for families with children, such as the Chiloza waterfall trail and the fairy trail in Saint-Nectaire.
- In winter, families can enjoy the region's ski resorts, such as Le Mont-Dore and Super-Besse, which offer ski and snowboard runs for all levels, as well as fun activities for children, such as toboggan runs and snow gardens. Discover our Top 15 family ski resorts where you can ski with children!
What unusual places to visit in the Puy de Dôme?
Did you know? The Puy de Dôme is one of the 10 places in France where you'd think you were abroad. From the village of Queuille, you'll have an exceptional panoramic view of the meander formed by the Sioule river, which embraces the Murat peninsula. Once inhabited and farmed, the peninsula is now covered by a thick forest. The site's lush vegetation and undulating watercourses are reminiscent of the Amazon rainforest, which is why it's nicknamed the "Amazon of Auvergne". The Queuille meander is a fascinating and exotic landscape to observe, and some even see a turtle's head.
The Puy-de-Dôme is full of unusual and little-known places that are well worth a visit. Here are just a few that might surprise you:
- Parc des Loups du Gévaudan in Saint-Léger-de-Peyre, a wildlife park on the border between Auvergne and Lozère, where you can observe European gray wolves in a natural environment.
- Le Puy de Lemptégy in Saint-Ours-les-Roches, a natural and industrial site offering a guided tour on a small train to discover the bowels of a volcano and the techniques used to extract pozzolan.
- Le Jardin des Sens in Charbonnières-les-Vieilles, a botanical and sensory garden offering a unique experience to discover plants and their properties through the five senses.
- La Grotte de la Pierre de Volvic in Volvic, an underground cave carved out of Volvic stone, which houses an exhibition on the history and geology of this rock emblematic of the region.
Tempted by our selection? Check out our article What to do in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes? The 19 must-sees, and check out our train fares to book now !
