If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore, look no further than the volcanoes of Auvergne. Located in the heart of France, this region is home to some extinct and dormant volcanoes that are well worth a visit. Here’s what you need to know about Auvergne and its volcanic landscape.
The Volcanoes of Auvergne and Why Visit Them
The Volcanoes of Auvergne are some of Europe’s most impressive and well-preserved volcanoes. The region is home to over 80 volcanoes, many of which are still active. While most visitors come to Auvergne to see the volcanoes, there is much more to the region than its geological wonders.
Here are the five popular volcanoes of Auvergne:
Puy de Dôme
The Puy de Dôme is a cone-shaped volcano located in the Massif Central region of France. It is the highest volcano in the Auvergne region, rising to a height of 1,465 meters (4,813 feet). The Puy de Dôme is also one of the most active volcanoes in the Auvergne region, with more than 80 eruptions recorded since AD 1000.
The most recent eruption occurred in April 2016. The Puy de Dôme is part of the Chaîne des Puys, a volcanic chain that includes more than 80 volcanoes. The Chaîne des Puys was formed during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs and are one of the most active volcanic regions in Europe.
Puy Pariou
The Puy Pariou is one of the most prominent volcanoes in the Auvergne region of France. It is a stratovolcano, meaning that it is composed of multiple layers of lava and ash. The Puy Pariou last erupted in 1669, and since then, it has been inactive. However, the volcano is still considered to be potentially dangerous, and it is closely monitored by scientists.
The Puy Pariou is surrounded by some smaller volcanic cones, which are also known as lava domes. These domes were formed during past eruptions when lava flowed out of the volcano and cooled into complex formations. Today, the Puy Pariou is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can hike to the top of the volcano for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Puy de Sancy
The Puy de Sancy is the highest mountain in the Massif Central and is part of the chain of volcanoes known as the Chaîne des Puys. It is an extinct volcano that last erupted around 8,000 years ago. The mountain is 1,886 meters high and has a cone-shaped peak. The Puy de Sancy is made up of three types of lava: basalt, dacite, and rhyolite.
The lava flows from the volcano have formed three summits: the Grand Pic de Sancy (1,886 m), the Petit Pic de Sancy (1,858 m), and the Rocher de la Desk (1,851 m). The Puy de Sancy is a popular tourist destination due to its spectacular views and its rich history. The mountain was formed during the Pliocene epoch and is one of the oldest volcanoes in Europe. It has been extensively studied by scientists and has been designated as a Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Puy de Côme
The Puy de Côme is a volcano in the Auvergne region of France. It is one of the most prominent features of the region and is a popular tourist destination. The Puy de Côme is a cinder cone volcano that is part of the Chaîne des Puys, a chain of over 80 volcanoes. The volcano last erupted about 40,000 years ago and is now dormant. However, it is still considered active and is monitored by scientists.
The Puy de Côme is about 1,465 meters tall and has a base circumference of about 8 kilometers. The volcano has a unique shape that sets it apart from other cinder cone volcanoes. Its slopes are very steep, and its summit is almost flat. This flat summit provides stunning views of the surrounding area, which is why the Puy de Côme is such a popular tourist destination.
Puy de Lassolas
The Puy de Lassolas is one of the most picturesque volcanoes in the Auvergne region of France. Its conical shape and symmetrical crater make it a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike. Located in the Massif Central, the Puy de Lassolas is part of an ancient volcano field that was formed over millions of years.
Today, the volcano is inactive, but its dramatic cliffs and craggy peak are a testament to its power. Visitors to the Puy de Lassolas can take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, or descend into the crater for a closer look at its rocky walls. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a photo opportunity, the Puy de Lassolas is sure to impress.
Auvergne is also a beautiful area, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. In addition, the region is home to some of France’s best wine countries.
The Volcanoes of Auvergne are a must-see for anyone interested in geology or volcanoes. The area is home to extinct volcanoes, and the landscape is dotted with craters, lava flows, and other volcanic features. Visitors can hike through the crater of the Puy de Dome, explore the lava tunnels of the Chauvet Cave, and see firsthand the evidence of past eruptions. The Volcanoes of Auvergne provide a unique opportunity to see firsthand the power of nature and the forces that shape our planet.
Whether you’re interested in geology or just looking for a beautiful place to visit, the Volcanoes of Auvergne are worth a trip.
For pictures, maps, tours, and other information about Chaîne des Puys click here.
When Is The Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the volcanoes of Auvergne is in the spring or autumn. This is when the weather is usually mild and there are fewer tourists. The Auvergne region is located in central France and is home to some of the country’s most active volcanoes. The most famous volcano to visit is the Puy de Dome, which last erupted in 1944. The Puy de Dome is located in Massif Central, a large area of volcanic activity that includes several other dormant volcanoes.
The Massif Central is also home to some hot springs, which are another popular tourist attraction in Auvergne. In addition to the Puy de Dome, some other popular volcanoes to visit in Auvergne include the Vulcania theme park and the Plomb du Cantal, both of which offer unique insight into the world of volcanoes.
How to Get To Auvergne Volcanoes
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park is situated in the Massif Central, a range of extinct volcanoes in south-central France. The region is accessible by car, train, or plane.
By Car
The quickest way to reach the park is by car. From Paris, take the A71/A75 motorway south towards Clermont-Ferrand. Exit at Volvic and follow the D907 through the park.
By Train
Visitors can also take the train to Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park. The high-speed TGV trains depart from Paris’ Gare de Lyon station and will take approximately two and a half hours to reach Clermont-Ferrand. From there, visitors can take a local train or bus to reach the park.
By Plane
Those coming from outside of France can fly into Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE). The airport is served by several European airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and Transavia. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach the park.
Where to Stay
The volcanoes of Auvergne are a popular destination for tourists wanting to experience this area’s unique geology and landscapes. There are some different accommodation options available, depending on your budget and preferences.
For those on a tight budget, there are some camping options available near the volcanoes. This is a great way to get close to nature and experience the beauty of the area up close. However, it should be noted that the weather in this region can be quite changeable, so be prepared for both hot and cold conditions.
There are also some hotels and guesthouses in the area, which offer more comfort and amenities than camping but may be more expensive. These are generally located in the towns and villages surrounding the volcanoes, so you will need to factor in travel time when planning your activities.
Whichever option you choose, there are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip to the Volcanoes of Auvergne. Be sure to check the weather conditions in advance and pack accordingly.
And if you’re planning on doing any hikes or other activities in the area, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. With a little planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this fascinating destination.
What to See and Do While You’re There
The Auvergne region of France is home to some volcanoes, many of which are still active. The area is a popular tourist destination, and there are some activities that visitors can enjoy. One of the most popular attractions is the Mont-Dore volcano, which last erupted in 1789. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the volcano, where there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Another popular activity is hiking, as some trails wind their way through the volcanic landscape. For those interested in geology, there are also several museums in the area that provide information about the formation of the Auvergne region. Whatever your interests, there is sure to be something to see and do while you’re in the Volcanoes of Auvergne.
Tips for Visiting the Volcanoes of Auvergne
Auvergne is home to some of the most active volcanoes in Europe, and visitors can explore a variety of crater lakes, geothermal springs, and lava flows. Here are some tips for visiting the volcanoes of Auvergne:
Wear sturdy shoes: The terrain around volcanoes can be uneven and rocky, so it’s important to wear shoes that will provide good traction.
Bring a hat and sunglasses: The sun can be very intense at high altitudes, so it’s important to protect your eyes and skin.
Stay on marked trails: It’s important to respect any closures or warning signs, as there can be dangers associated with volcanic activity.
Pack plenty of water: There are often few amenities available in remote areas, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit to the volcanoes of Auvergne.
In conclusion
The Volcanoes of Auvergne are a fascinating destination for tourists who want to experience this area’s unique geology and landscapes. There are some different accommodation options available, depending on your budget and preferences. You can also enjoy a variety of activities while you’re there, including hiking, sightseeing, and museum visits. With a little planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this fascinating region.
