When you decide to go on vacation, many questions arise immediately. The choice of destination is one of them. If for most people, vacations rhyme with long trips to unknown countries on the other side
When you decide to go on vacation, many questions arise immediately. The choice of destination is one of them. If for most people, vacations rhyme with long trips to unknown countries on the other side of the world, others opt for a destination on the national territory.
Besides the proximity, this type of destination allows to rediscover the richness of a locality. This is notably the case of the Auvergne region. Whether it is for a family vacation or alone, this destination has a wide choice of tourist attractions, accommodations and offers many activities whether they are sports, cultural or activities to relax.
Characteristics of the Auvergne region
The Auvergne region is a region that stands out because of the characteristics of its relief. Indeed, it is one of the rare volcanic regions of France. This specificity is at the origin of spectacular geographical formations and luxuriant vegetation.
On the historical level, the region also has heritage sites dating back to the 13th century such as the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption cathedral or the Polignac fortress. For cheese and charcuterie lovers, the choice of this destination is almost natural. Indeed, the cheese of kings, the famous Saint-Nectaire, very appreciated, comes from Sancy.
Activities to do in Auvergne
There is no lack of activities to do when visiting the Auvergne. Indeed, the tourist offices propose activities according to the place where you wish to visit or stay.
1. Hiking
In order to enjoy the beauty of the landscape, nothing is better than hiking. In Auvergne, there is something for everyone. For the elderly or children, the walking formula that lasts a few hours on prepared paths is the most recommended.
For the adventurous, there are routes lasting from several hours to several days, on foot or by mountain bike, including climbing the volcanic peak of Puy-de-Dôme.
2. Cultural events
For music lovers, this region is full of festivals and concerts that showcase the local cultural riches.
- The Renaissance festival that is celebrated every third weekend of September in Puy-en-Velay.
- The country music festival during which shows, concerts and an archery contest are organized.
3. Visiting parks
The region is also home to the Chaudefour nature reserve (located in Sancy). It is a remnant of a 600,000 year old volcanic eruption, this area offers a particular relief, with volcanic ridges and a lake in its middle.
4. The visit of the built heritage
The Auvergne is also known for its numerous historical monuments which are the must-see in this region:
- The castle of Cordès in Puy-de-Dôme built in the 15th century
- Royat is a typical town of the region with authentic Romanesque churches
5. Lodging in the Auvergne region
As one of the main tourist destinations, the Auvergne region has the hotel infrastructure for you to spend a stay in the best conditions.
6. Hotels and hostels
For your family vacation, a hotel is the best type of accommodation. It is possible to book online and customize the order according to your needs (quality, category, location, number of children).
7. Renting residences during the vacations
Vacation rentals are also an interesting alternative, although they require advance preparation. In this case, you can choose from a wide range of accommodations, from the most classic (inns, guest houses, bungalows) to the most original (cottage, farmhouse).
8. Camping
The region also offers a wide range of camping sites for adventure lovers. Indeed, you will easily find mobile homes or sites specially equipped to install camping tents.
9. The volcano of Puy de Sancy
Auvergne is famous for its volcanoes. One of them is the Puy de Sancy, located in the Monts Dore and has about 1885 m of altitude. To get to the top, you have to take a cable car. At the top, many activities are waiting for you, like hiking. Unlike other volcanoes, the Puy de Sancy is decorated with unique vegetation. Visiting the top of the Puy Sancy is simply magnificent!
10. Go to Salers
This small village is located in the south of the Cantal. It does not look like the ones we just mentioned. Indeed, this one is much more beautiful, even if you have to drive a few hours to get there. But the trip is really worth it!
Salers is a unique little village, thanks to its very strange architecture and its dark-colored volcanic stones. It’s like something out of a fairy tale because most houses look like witches’ houses. In other words, it is an obscure and attractive village.
Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about Auvernge.