The Cantal volcano
The Cantal volcano - spectacular natural scenery !
The Cantal volcano is the oldest and largest volcano in Europe. It has a diameter of 70km and covers almost all the Cantal region. Situated in the southern part of the Auvergne, it is the gateway to the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne (Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park).
The Massif Central and the Cantal volcano in particular resulted from intense, ancient volcanic activity ! A constant succession of lava flow, explosions, subsidence, projections of rock and lava took place over a period of 8 million years, giving birth to the Monts du Cantal, the main volcano, then the chain of ‘Puys’ stretching northward.
With the passage of time, the mountains, which were originally almost 4,000m high, subsided, their slopes sometimes collapsing to form plateaux, rivers hollowed out valleys to give the magnificent and varied natural scenery which is Cantal today.
The majestic, wide-open spaces of Cantal are a great place to relax with an amazing variety of wildlife, unique landscapes and little villages to discover along the little roads and paths on the volcano.
The ‘must see’ summits of Puy Mary and Plomb du Cantal
During your stay in the area, marvel at the magnificent unique scenery of the largest volcano in Europe from the top of the emblematic peaks of Puy Mary and Plomb Cantal.
Puy Mary, a ‘Grand Site National’ has panoramic views over the Monts du Cantal and the Chaîne des Puys. Once you reach the summit, the tranquillity and vastness of the landscape give you the impression that you’re at the end of the world ! There are two ways to get to the top of Puy Mary : a flight of stone steps provides easy access, while more sporting visitors can follow the hiking path from Plomb du Cantal.
Plomb du Cantal is the highest peak in the region. It is in the middle of the Massif du Cantal and offers another vision of the Cantal landscape. It is the starting point of numerous valleys such as the Mars, Jordanne and Cère. In winter Plomb de Cantal is covered in snow and its slopes are transformed into ski resorts much to everyone’s delight. The resorts of Super-Lioran and Prat de Bouc offer downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing so there is something for all family members.
Cantal – an outdoor destination for all the family
Cantal is an ideal outdoor destination ! Its slopes are gentler than the Alps and the Pyrenees, perfect for walks even with very young children. The peace and tranquillity of the little Auvergne villages nestling on the sides of valleys are ideal places to ‘get away from it all’. The volcano is a great big adventure playground for sporting enthusiasts : skiing, trail-running, walking, horse riding, mountain biking, canyoning, rock climbing and lots more.
The Cantal volcano is a vast area with many different sides to its nature. The little villages tucked away at the heart of the mountains and valleys have numerous gites and B&Bs for a unique stay with a personal touch. Gîtes de France owners are extremely fond of their area and are always delighted to help you discover their neighbourhood ! Élise Lajarrige, owner of Oustal d’Antonin gite at Saint-Martin-Valmeroux says : « …It’s a real pleasure to introduce the highlights of Cantal to people wishing to visit it. Being a Gites de France owner allows me to satisfy my passion for Cantal and to share it with the people who come to my gite on holiday … »
Cantal is a great place to discover at any time of year ! In winter, there are ski slopes for everyone from toddlers to experienced skiers; in spring flora and fauna come to life in a burst of colour; enjoy the summer sunshine while walking through the countryside or visiting character villages; in autumn the landscape is aflame with shades of red, yellow and orange.
To make the most of your stay, it is best to come by car and if you come in winter, don’t forget to fit your car with snow tyres and chains, Cantal is in the mountains, you know ! You can also come by train or plane. Paris is only a one hour flight from Aurillac !!"
