Auvergne - Holiday attractions in France

Auvergne, one of France's 27 administrative regions, is comprised of four departments: Puy-de-Dôme, Haute Loire, Cantal and Allier.

Surprisingly there are numerous dormant and extinct volcanoes in the area with the last eruption occurring some 6,000 years ago. Many have now been subject to the effects of erosion, forming distinctive round-topped hills referred to locally as 'puys'.

Today, this mostly rural region offers many laid-back, relaxing activities for couples and families staying in holiday villas in France.

Puy-de-Dôme

Puy-de-Dôme takes its name from a local extinct volcano, which is itself one of the most popular tourist sites in Auvergne, attracting more than half a million visitors per year. In ancient times, the volcano was used as a location for numerous religious ceremonies and many temples were erected at its summit, including one dedicated to the Gallo-Roman god Mercury, first excavated in 1873.

Today, Puy-de-Dôme is known throughout the world as an excellent location for paragliding, with several clubs offering discovery, tandem two-seater flights for beginners. Those wishing to enjoy the spectacular views from the volcano can either take the newly-opened Panoramique des Dômes rack railway or the more energetic can hike to the top on the le sentier des muletiers, a former Roman road that leads directly to the Temple of Mercury. Together with a dedicated visitors centre, there is also a restaurant and shop at the summit.

Haute Loire

Arguably one of the most breathtaking sights in the region is the chapel of Saint Michel d'Aiguilhe, built on the outskirts of the town of Puy en Velay atop a volcanic plug (the Rock of Aiguilhe). The chapel itself can only be reached by climbing the 268 steps carved into the volcanic rock and was built in 962 AD to commemorate the pilgrimage of Saint James.

Cantal

This mostly agricultural district of France is known for its simplistic though pleasingly rustic cuisine with the local cheese ham and vegetables forming the basis for many traditional dishes. Aligot, Trufade, and Pounti.

Allier

In marked contrast to Cantal, Allier is known for its many rivers, bocages (small forests) and mountains. The area has a great deal to offer the outdoor activity enthusiasts with traditional pursuits such as fishing, hiking and white water sports being catered for by many specialist companies and operators. Particularly the region around Vichy is also known internationally for the hydrotherapy treatment offered at its many spa retreats.