Thermal baths in Puy-de-Dôme
Mont-Dore and its historic thermal baths
The best-known mineral water of Auvergne is by far Volvic, exported throughout the world. However there are many other waters with therapeutic properties in the department of Puy-de-Dôme, around which spa towns grew up especially at the end of the 19th century. Even if you don’t wish to take the waters for medical treatment, they are well worth visiting for their architecture and unique atmosphere.
The spa resort of Mont-Dore has particularly clean air as it is at 1,050m altitude, not far from the ski resort of Super-Besse. Even if you don’t suffer from rheumatism or respiratory disease, you should still visit this spa town of the Massif Central to admire its thermal baths. The huge, Neo-Byzantine and Art-Deco style building has paintings, polychrome frescoes, painted ceilings, domes, mosaics, marble and a metallic framework which make it a listed historic building. And to make the most of the area, have a carefree weekend of wellness treatment at the spa while staying at one of the many chalets or B&Bs in this mid-altitude mountain area.
La Bourboule, especially for children
The spa resort of La Bourboule is well-known for its medical treatment for children. Its waters are particularly beneficial in treating the respiratory and skin problems which children often suffer from. The resort also offers spa sessions, health and beauty treatment as well as a pool complex, Sancy Ô, which has a lap pool, a leisure pool, children’s pool and a wellness centre. A little taste of paradise !
Royat, the most urban spa resort of Puy-de-Dôme
Royat is at the foot of the Chaîne des Puys and adjacent to Clermont-Ferrand. This long time spa town specialises in treatment for rheumatic and cardio-vascular diseases. It is well worth seeing for its Second Empire architecture of mansions and villas built during the reign of Napoleon III. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a visit to Royatonic, the town’s spa complex and ‘thermoludique’ centre. You can swim here, but also relax in the hydromassage zone and jacuzzi or do just like the Ancient Romans and go from the caldarium, to the tepidarium and then the frigidarium. And there are steam baths and saunas too !
Châtel-Guyon - written about by Guy de Maupassant
The creation of this spa resort was described in fictional form by Guy de Maupassant no less in his third novel, Mont-Oriol ! The waters of Châtel-Guyon, rich in magnesium, are renowned for relieving intestinal disorders. The sumptuous Second Empire style hotels, some of which are now private homes, give the town a wonderfully old-fashioned and nostalgic atmosphere. The surrounding countryside has some magnificent walks, so all you need to do is book your accommodation !
Discover Puy de Dôme with Gites de France Puy de Dôme : Puy de Dôme, Livradois-Forez, Clermont-Ferrand City Guide, Chaîne des Puys.