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Lakes and volcanoes share the West of
Auvergne. Between the Chaîne des Dômes, the
Monts Dore and the huge Massif Cantalien, it is an impressive
yet idyllic environment that welcomes nature lovers.
The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature
Park, the largest in France, covers the five groups that
form this unusual land: the “Chaîne des Puys”
(or Monts Dômes), the “Massif du Sancy”
(or Monts Dore), the “Plateau de l’Artense”,
the “ Plateau du Cézallier” and the
“Monts du Cantal”.
To the West of Clermont-Ferrand, the 80 dormant volcanoes
of the Chaîne des Puys rise up over an area of some
forty kilometres. From the summit of the Puy de Dôme,
the highest of them all (1,465 m), the chain reveals itself,
majestic and mysterious.
Here, each volcano uses its charms to arouse your admiration.
Some stand out by their bell shape, others display their
shattered craters, a reminder of their fury.
 Further
South, the Massif du Sancy rises up, a tourist site not
to be missed among the Wide Open Spaces of Auvergne. Le
Sancy (1,886 m) is the highest point in central France.
The Guéry, Servières and Pavin Lakes surround
it. The latter, nestled in the forest, is proud to be
known as one of the most beautiful lakes in Auvergne.
Art and history lovers will also be delighted by the nearby
towns, birthplace of Auvergnat Romanesque architecture.
Be sure to visit Notre-Dame d’Orcival Basilica and
the Château de Cordès and the Church of Saint-Nectaire.
The Plateau de l’Artense and the Plateau du Cézallier
are the start of a kingdom of wide horizons. Le Cézallier
and its mountain pastures welcome thousands of horned
animals, which come for summer grazing.
Towering over these plateaux, the Monts du Cantal will
take your breath away.
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