In the Auvergne region, just a few kilometers from Clermont-Ferrand, lies a scenery as surprising as it is spectacular: the Chaîne des Puys volcano route. This volcanic site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts some 80 extinct volcanoes stretching over some 35 km. Impeccably shaped cones, massive domes and craters are a reminder that this region was once shaped by fire and lava!
A magical road winding through volcanoes
Just 3 hours from Paris, the ideal starting point is Clermont-Ferrand, dominated by the majestic Puy de Dôme. You can take a panoramic train to its summit for an impressive view of the entire massif. The route then continues on to other emblematic peaks such as Puy Pariou, recognizable by its perfectly round crater, and the more imposing Puy de Côme.
Further south, the atmosphere changes at Lac Pavin, a maar of dark, mysterious waters that marks the imprint of a cataclysmic volcanic explosion. No matter what happens, every stop can be a pretext for a short hike, a photo break or a picnic with a view of the volcanoes.
Today, the Chaîne des Puys benefits from tourist facilities designed to protect the site while facilitating discovery: parking lots, signposted trails, panoramic viewpoints… It’s a perfect off-season destination, especially in spring and autumn when the colors radically change the atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a sporting adventure or just a breath of fresh air, the itinerary can be adapted to suit all tastes: road trips by car, cycling escapades or day hikes.
From Paris, it takes just 3 hours by train to reach Clermont-Ferrand. Once there, renting a car makes it easier to explore the various volcanic sites. Depending on the time you have available, the experience can be enjoyed in a day or transformed into a weekend, combining nature visits with local heritage discoveries.
This route, though established in France, offers a sense of total escape. Here, horizons are wide, nature reigns and every summit tells a story thousands of years old. For anyone looking for an unusual road trip that doesn’t involve traveling to the other side of the world, the Chaîne des Puys is a must-see destination!
📍Location: Chaîne des Puys