Pays d’Issoire and Val d’Allier

A welcoming region of volcanoes, indelibly marked by the history and geology of the past, which can be explored at any time of year while staying in one of its many gites and B&Bs.

Between Massif du Sancy and Val d'Allier, the Route du Dauphiné d'Auvergne is a journey through scenery bathed in sunshine, vast areas of rolling landscapes with volcanic peaks, vine-covered hillsides and steep-sided valleys. Between the Vallée des Couzes and the Plaine du Lembron, the road winds between basalt plateaux, limestone and leafy valleys, past quaint villages, fine churches, castles and other places steeped in history. Fall under the spell of the picturesque medieval village of Montpeyroux; the Plateau de Ronzières; the Rocher de Vodable, site of the ancient fortress of the Dauphins d'Auvergne; the Romanesque church of Colamine and its magnificent Maestra; the Château de Villeneuve-Lembron and finally, the village of Boudes, well-known for its vineyards. The Route is ideal for a touring holiday of any kind : by car, bike or on foot along the GR hiking path « Tour en Dauphiné d'Auvergne », a loop of 85 kilometres between peaks, hills and valleys. Day-long walks are possible too, like the one from Villeneuve-Lembron to Chalus which has magnificent views of the Dauphiné, Livradois and Lembron regions.
To cool down a little, go to the Cascade du Gour d'Appât, a waterfall which can be reached from Apchat, or the Source Romaine de Bard with its discovery trail recounting the story of the Roman coins discovered there.