A Nature Holiday in Auvergne
For repeat visitors to the Auvergne region, the spectacular landscape and biodiversity are two of the main attractions. The region is blessed with beautiful scenery, large areas of untouched landscape and all manner of rare flora and fauna.
Conservation and sustainable development are key in Auvergne and you will find the countryside well-preserved and highly respected by locals and visitors alike. Auvergne is home to many areas of outstanding natural beauty and, no matter what your interests, you will find plenty to take your breath away. Whether you are a keen cyclist, a horse-rider, an ardent nature-lover or you just enjoy casual walks through unspoilt countryside, you'll find all the outdoor activities you could possible want in Auvergne.
Many of the gites and villas in France are located in rural areas, meaning you will be much closer to nature than you would be in a seaside hotel. If you are planning a nature holiday, choose a property with walks and trails nearby. You will use the car less and get to see even more of the local environment if you don't have to drive to your walking destination.
The Auvergne landscape varies from the hue, rocky outcrops of long-dormant volcanoes and huge lakes, to dense green ancient forests and grassy meadows. The two regional nature parks, Livradois-Forez and Vocans d'Auvergne offer a host of activities for nature lovers of all ages and their considerable size means you'll always find a quiet corner for just sitting back and admiring the view.
Livradois-Forez is one of the largest regional nature parks in the whole of France. If you only have time to visit one park while on holiday, make it this one. Located near the city of Lyon, the park offers thousands of miles of footpaths and trails, taking in rivers, mountains, fields and forests. For those who like to take the weight off their feet while they explore nature, the park has a popular tourist train, sure to delight both adults and children. The train enables you to see some of the area's most spectacular scenery, all from the comfort of your seat. Running through the heart of the park, the train takes you through some of the most unspoilt countryside in the whole of France, making it an experience not to be missed.
Those planning on staying in gites or villas in France and wanting to incorporate nature activities into their holiday could do a lot worse than choose to stay in this magnificent, unspoilt part of the country.