Welcome to Auvergne
Welcome to one of the most scenic areas of France: Auvergne. An environment full of protected natural areas perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling, but also a volcanic territory in the mountain ranges of the Puys in the Sioule valley gorges.
A multitude of activities are available to you such as swimming, which is supervised by a guide in July and August, water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing or fishing and also other outdoor sports such as hiking or horseback riding tours by the lake, much-needed outdoor children's games and pedal cars, among others.
However, Auvergne is also characterised by the cultural heritage found on its castles, religious buildings and several typical towns such as Clermont-Ferrand, Le Puy-en-Velay or Riom, all of which have a touristic atmosphere that you will love.
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What to see
From May to September, the old Château de Chouvigny, a private space built in the 18th century on a rocky outcrop, is open to the public.
Another important religious building is the Church of St. Peter, which has some very striking statues.
In the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, near the Vallée de Chaudefour, you will find Lake Chambon surrounded by many trees the waters of which attract the attention of both sports lovers and people who simply want to relax.
What to eat
Perhaps one of the most important products of the Auvergne is cheese, in all its variants, and the wines of Saint-Pourçain, but there are many more that will surprise you with their taste as well as in the way they are cooked.
A unique dish that should be included in this list are green lentils from Puy, accompanied by a thick portion of cooked ham, tomatoes and onions - a very healthy and complete recipe for any season of the year!
Let's go now to a totally traditional dish in the history of France: the Auvergne stew. It is cooked for several hours and contains many vegetables such as cabbages, potatoes and carrots accompanied by sausages, duck fat and cloves, among others... Another very complete dish before any escape into nature and hiking.
The apple pie dessert is also a must. Although it is a dish with plenty of calories, it is essential to try it at least once because it is worth it!
Nature
A very good option is to visit the route of the Chouvigny Gorges, as it is a river surrounded by trees through which drivers, motorcyclists and cyclists can enjoy magnificent landscapes along with imposing cliffs.
So the best way to discover this natural site is to descend the Sioule by canoe or kayak from the medieval bridge of Menat.
On the other hand, an excellent starting point for a walk is the natural territory of Roc Armand, where you will have the opportunity to observe the fauna and flora of the region in its entirety.
The Landes de Péraclos is also a perfect choice for people who love nature and natural sites as well as for doing sports, as it is a protected natural area between mountains.
Our festivities
There are many festive events of all kinds and colours in Auvergne to enjoy the atmosphere and social life, starting with the Fêtes du Roi de l'Oiseau in September, which is a traditional 16th century sports festival related to archery.
The second major festival in this region is the Festival Folklorique Interfolk en Auvergne held in July in Puy-en-Velay, which is a music-themed festival dedicated to showcasing artists from all over the world through parades, live performances, and movement.
Then, in the beautiful town of Clermont-Ferrand you will find one of the main jazz festivals in France which takes place all year round and artists specialised in this music genre play for the fans of this music.
In short, if you come to this area it will be impossible for you to stay in one place!
