Chaîne des Puys

Rising dramatically from the Auvergne landscape, the Chaîne des Puys is a stunning chain of dormant volcanoes stretching over 40 kilometres. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rare chance to walk inside craters, hike along ancient lava flows, and soak up panoramic views that stretch to the Massif Central. For international travellers, it’s an unmissable stop that combines dramatic geology, rich volcanic history, and excellent outdoor adventures.

Highlights & What to See

• Puy de Dôme – The iconic summit at 1,465 metres, accessible by train or on foot, with sweeping views and a Roman temple ruin at the top.
• Puy de Pariou – A perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone with a deep, grassy crater – one of the most photogenic in the chain.
• Puy de la Vache & Puy de Lassolas – Twin volcanoes that produced the massive lava flow known as the Cheire d'Aydat, now a surreal rocky plain.
• Volcano of Lemptégy – A unique ‘scenographic’ volcano where you can descend into the crater and see the inner workings of a volcano up close.
• Maison de la Pierre à l’Oiseau – A visitor centre with exhibits on volcanic geology and the history of the region.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to explore the main volcanoes – start early at Puy de Dôme, then hike a second peak like Puy de Pariou in the afternoon. If you’re keen on hiking multiple craters, two days allow a more relaxed pace, with overnight stays in nearby Clermont-Ferrand or the village of Orcines. The best seasons are late spring through early autumn, when the trails are clear and the wildflowers bloom.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Clermont-Ferrand – The historic capital of Auvergne, with its black lava-stone cathedral and lively food market.
• Vulcania – A family-friendly theme park dedicated to volcanoes and Earth sciences, located right at the foot of the Chaîne.
• Gorges de la Sioule – A dramatic river canyon with hiking trails and medieval villages, less than an hour’s drive west.
• Le Mont-Dore – A spa town in the Massif du Sancy, offering thermal baths and access to the highest peak in the region.

Please check official sources for current details.