Holiday Cottages in Puy-de-Dôme

What to see in Puy-de-Dôme?

High up on this volcano there may not be as many monuments or touristic attractions as in other departments that have been more easily adapted to touristic and holidaymaking activities, but don't worry, there is a destination for everything and everyone!

What you can find here are wonderful views to enjoy, a weather observatory with the highest sensibility and accuracy to the changes produced by in the atmosphere, and an information office that includes a specific space where volcanology is discussed.

But, undoubtedly, the best thing about this region are the grandiose panoramic views of these mountains along with several scenic attractions such as the Monts Dore surrounded by lakes, spas and Romanesque churches, the rack railway of Clermont-Ferrand, the French Limagne plain and the granite-covered Monts de Forez.

What curiosities are there?

A hotspot for history lovers, you can find here the capital of Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, which is located between Limagne and the mountain range of the so-called Puys, which is home to a huge cultural heritage with several manors and religious buildings such as the cathedral of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption or the mansion of Fontfreyde.

Once inside the well-known Clermont Vieux you will find the rue Pascal, which is embraced by large and solemn mansions, as well as beautiful stone fountains such as the famous Amboise fountain (a French town with Italian influences).

You can also enjoy life in the Place de Jaude, whose 26 fountains and peaceful terraces make this square a must see, as it is also the famous equestrian statue of Vercingétorix in honour of Caesar's victory in the Battle of Alesia.

Where can you sleep?

Take a breath, because in Puy de Dôme there will always be a good place to spend the night. You could settle in the capital, Clermont-Ferrand, as it is the most lively and touristy place in the region and has more than 120 hotels to suit your needs, whatever they may be.

On the other hand, you also have the option of staying in one of the accommodations in the Monts Dore, which is already a more natural and more secluded place for nature lovers or those people who are looking for some peace and relaxation on their holidays.

What to do in the area?

Puy de Dôme is a perfect destination to enjoy landscapes, but also for lovers of air sports such as paragliding, hot-air balloon flights or hang-gliding, as it is an ideal environment and flying spot, but also for outdoor sports such as hiking.

In the same way, it is also a very prolific terrain for natural parks, while there are two in this area: the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne and the Parc Naturel Régional Livradois-Forez, both of which are well worth a visit.

On the other hand, the so-called "European Park of Volcanism" is a very attractive museum with regards to tourism that has recreational and dynamic purposes in relation with the theme that bears in its name, a very interesting place worth a visit too.

Another must that is worth visiting is the ecomuseum of the Monts du Forez in the city of Usson-en-Forez, a quite touristic attraction for nature lovers and some beautiful cities like Riom and Thiers.

What typical foods are recommended?

Precisely because of its geographical location in the middle of the mountain range, this department has a great many local products of all kinds with a very demanding care and elaboration process. For example, its cheeses, and more specifically the Fourme d'Ambert, which can be used for everything from simple sandwiches to highly elaborate desserts, combining the magic of cheese flavour with sweet ingredients.

However, a very typical dish from this area is the cabbage soup, which, as you will find out, is a delicacy that will warm your body deliciously in a high mountain area like this where cold temperatures are always around the corner.

You should also try the Truffade de Dôme, a savoury potato recipe elaborated with fresh French Tomme cheese, smoked pork and Serrano cured ham. It is usually eaten with side to side with a small salad. In fact, there are several types of Truffades, and this is just one example of them.

Here you will find as well numerous desserts such as cakes and mousses, but we would like to highlight the tarte aux pommes, for those who love apples dipped in sugar, adding the finishing touch to enjoy the typical gastronomy of this department fully.

Where are the festivities?

Despite being quite isolated in the countryside, Puy de Dôme does not miss a chance to host a festivity nonetheless because right on the Place de Jaude several events and festivals related to music, culture and gastronomy are held all year round, as well as smaller and cosier events such as medieval markets like the one of Pyromélodie Festival.

We would also like to mention some essential events such as the International Short Film Festival. This is the second largest French film festival in terms of audience numbers after Cannes. The Short Film Market is also held at the same time and is aimed at professionals in the sector such as directors, actors and producers.

It is also worth mentioning of the main events of jazz music held in October, for lovers of this genre or simply to enjoy a pleasant sound while having a soft drink or refined and delicious glass of the local wine.