Discover Puy-de-Dôme | A Visitor's Introduction to Puy-de-Dôme

Why is Puy-de-Dôme Worth a Visit?

Puy-de-Dôme is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and relaxed countryside charm. Home to the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO-listed chain of 80 extinct volcanoes, it offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in France. The department is also famous for its thermal spas, medieval villages, and delicious Auvergne cuisine.

Visitors can hike to the top of Puy de Dôme, explore the lively city of Clermont-Ferrand, or soak in the mineral-rich waters of Vichy and Mont-Dore. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, cultural discoveries, or a peaceful retreat, Puy-de-Dôme offers an experience like no other.

Puy-de-Dôme Highlights: Things to See and Do in Puy-de-Dôme

Puy de Dôme – The Iconic Volcano

The Puy de Dôme volcano is the most famous attraction in the region and offers stunning panoramic views from its 1,465-metre summit. You can either hike to the top, a 1.5-hour climb, or take the Panoramique des Dômes railway, which offers a scenic ride to the peak. At the top, you’ll find the remains of a Roman temple dedicated to Mercury, along with breathtaking views over the Chaîne des Puys and beyond.

Clermont-Ferrand – A City Built on Lava

The capital of Puy-de-Dôme, Clermont-Ferrand, is a vibrant university city with a fascinating history. The city’s skyline is dominated by the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, a magnificent Gothic cathedral built from black volcanic stone. Nearby, Place de Jaude is the perfect spot for shopping, dining, and soaking up the local atmosphere. The city is also famous for the International Short Film Festival, one of the biggest in the world.

Vulcania – A Unique Volcanic Theme Park

Vulcania is an educational theme park dedicated to the region’s volcanic history. Located in the heart of the Chaîne des Puys, the park offers interactive exhibitions, 3D films, and even simulated volcanic eruptions. It’s a fantastic place for families and anyone interested in learning more about the powerful forces that shaped the landscape of Puy-de-Dôme.

Chaîne des Puys – UNESCO Volcanic Landscape

The Chaîne des Puys is a stunning range of extinct volcanoes stretching for 45km. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for hiking, cycling, and paragliding. The GR 441 hiking trail takes visitors through the most scenic parts of the region, including Puy de Pariou, one of the most beautifully preserved volcanic craters.

Lac Pavin – A Mysterious Volcanic Lake

Lac Pavin is a deep blue crater lake surrounded by lush forests, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the Auvergne. Legend says it’s bottomless and home to mysterious creatures! The lake is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and photography, with a peaceful walking trail that circles its shore.

Mont-Dore and La Bourboule – Thermal Spa Towns

For a relaxing retreat, visit the thermal spa towns of Mont-Dore and La Bourboule, nestled in the Massif du Sancy. These historic resorts are famous for their healing mineral waters, which have been attracting visitors since Roman times. Mont-Dore is also a fantastic destination for winter sports, with ski slopes and cross-country trails in the surrounding mountains.

Murol Castle – A Medieval Gem

The Château de Murol is one of the most impressive medieval castles in the Auvergne. Perched on a volcanic hill, the castle offers spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy historical reenactments, knight tournaments, and guided tours that bring the medieval past to life.

The Auvergne Cheese Route

Puy-de-Dôme is home to some of the finest French cheeses, and the Route des Fromages AOP d’Auvergne takes visitors through the cheese-making villages of the region. Local specialities include Saint-Nectaire, Bleu d’Auvergne, Cantal, and Fourme d’Ambert. Many cheese farms offer tastings, making this an essential experience for food lovers.

Saint-Nectaire – A Beautiful Village with a Famous Cheese

The village of Saint-Nectaire is not only famous for its delicious cheese but also for its beautiful Romanesque church, one of the finest in France. The area is also known for its prehistoric cave dwellings and underground hot springs, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The nearest airport is Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport, with flights from Paris and other French cities. Clermont-Ferrand is well connected by train to Paris in just 3.5 hours and Lyon in 2 hours. Driving is the best way to explore Puy-de-Dôme, as many of the region’s highlights are in rural areas. The A71 and A75 motorways make it easy to reach from major French cities.

Parking

Parking is easy and affordable in most towns and attractions. In Clermont-Ferrand, you’ll find underground car parks in the city centre. At Puy de Dôme, a large car park is available near the Panoramique des Dômes railway station.

Dining

Puy-de-Dôme is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of rustic auberges and local bistros serving traditional Auvergne cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Truffade, a hearty dish of potatoes, cheese, and garlic; Aligot, mashed potatoes blended with melted cheese; and Potée Auvergnate, a delicious meat and vegetable stew. For a fantastic meal, visit La Belle Meunière in Royat or Le 1513 in Clermont-Ferrand, both serving traditional Auvergne specialities.

Shopping

The best souvenirs from Puy-de-Dôme are its cheeses, cured meats, and handmade pottery. Visit the markets in Clermont-Ferrand at Place Saint-Pierre on Saturday mornings or Issoire on Tuesday and Saturday mornings for fresh regional products.

When to Visit

Spring and summer from May to September are the best times for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. Autumn from September to November is perfect for food lovers and photographers, with beautiful autumn colours and harvest festivals. Winter from December to March is ideal for skiing in Mont-Dore and Super-Besse.

Local Events

The Fête de la Saint-Urbain in May is a traditional cheese and wine festival in Saint-Nectaire. The Festival International du Court Métrage in January and February is one of the world’s biggest short film festivals in Clermont-Ferrand. The Fête de la Montagne in July celebrates mountain culture with traditional music and local food.

Exploring Beyond Puy-de-Dôme

If you have time, visit the neighbouring department of Cantal, home to even more volcanoes and medieval villages. You can also explore the beautiful Gorges de l’Allier, a fantastic area for hiking and kayaking.

Final Thoughts

Puy-de-Dôme is one of France’s most spectacular and underrated regions, offering a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. Whether you’re climbing ancient volcanoes, exploring medieval towns, or tasting world-class cheese, this beautiful corner of Auvergne promises an unforgettable experience.