Hiking in Auvergne to discover the Sancy
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationPuy-de-Dôme / Clermont-Ferrand
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AgeFrom 21 - 51 years
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CO₂-Emissions69.28 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Discover Clermont-Ferrand , a city nestled in the heart of a unique volcanic landscape. This short but intense stay invites you to explore a region shaped by 80 volcanoes , between ridges, plateaus, and verdant valleys . Depending on the season, put on your snowshoes or hiking boots to traverse wild trails offering spectacular panoramas . You'll reach the Puy de Sancy , the highest point of the Massif Central at 1,886 meters , to enjoy breathtaking views of this land sculpted by fire.
Upon your return, let yourself be captivated by the authentic charm of Clermont-Ferrand, its lively streets, and its friendly atmosphere. This trip offers a brisk pace , with days punctuated by hikes of 5 to 15 km and an average elevation gain of 850 m , requiring a good level of fitness . Accommodation is in shared hotel rooms , providing an opportunity to share your experiences and build connections during this outdoor adventure.
Meet in Clermont-Ferrand for the 6pm departure, ready to experience a nature escape where every moment counts, before a possible return the next morning, with a heart full of invigorating memories .
The highlights
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Discovering the Auvergne paradise
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Small group tour (max. 15 people)
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Flexibility: travel with a coordinator, not a guide!
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average distance/day: 10 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 367 m
- Average daily descent: 367 m
Management
Program
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Welcome to Clermont-Ferrand
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Travel to your destination is not included in the trip price. You can therefore choose your preferred schedule and mode of transport, giving you maximum flexibility! Please note that Clermont-Ferrand is also accessible by train or bus; here's how the meeting point works!
We settle into our accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand and quickly get started with the welcome meeting! The opportunity to have a first drink to get to know each other and discover the hidden charms of the city.
Among the city's specialties are its cathedral, its Gothic architecture, its lava stones, and of course, its mountains of cheese. Whether it's Cantal, Saint-Nectaire, Fourme d'Ambert, Mont-Dore… who wouldn't be tempted?
Day 1 -
Let's go out into nature!
- Transportation Car - 01h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 3 km
- Positive elevation gain 50 m
- Negative elevation 50 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
We are approaching the center of the Earth
First thing to do: pick up our rental cars. Once that's done, we'll head off to the Sancy massif, one of the oldest volcanoes in France!
We're just under an hour from our destination, but if we want to take a break, there's already plenty to see. Depending on the route we take, we can stop to admire the Saliens Waterfall. Anyone up for a natural shower? If we prefer to take the road further south, we'll pass through the town of Saint-Nectaire. Fancy a quick stop to stock up on supplies?
Admiring the Puy de Dôme and the Puy de Côme “in the distance”, we advance towards our destination until we reach our hotel near the Sancy massif.
Shall we begin?
The region is full of hikes and trails leading to the tops of numerous wells. So why not give it a try? There are, of course, waterfalls in the area, easily accessible, but you can also explore the sources of the Dordogne's thermal waters. Because yes, there are thermal springs here too!
If boiling water isn't your thing, there's another option: discover the valley from above, like a Red Kite. That is to say… by paraglider! Anyone up for it?
Visits to the thermal waters will only take place during the summer, from April to October.
Day 2 -
We're gaining altitude
- Transportation Car - 00h30 - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 1050 m
- Negative elevation 1050 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Green paths or snowy landscapes
This morning, we're getting ready for an adventure to the summit of the Sancy, which rises to 1886 meters. Depending on the season, the experience changes completely!
In summer, the verdant trails take center stage: climb from Mont-Dore to enjoy incredible views over the valleys. After the exertion, a good drink or a local meal on a terrace is the perfect reward.
In winter, the Sancy region transforms into a snowy paradise: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or even a giant zip line – there's plenty to enjoy. For those less athletically inclined, the cable car offers easy access to breathtaking panoramas.
Whatever the season, the Sancy region promises unforgettable memories and a good dose of fresh air !
Day 3 -
A detour via Chambon-sur-Lac
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 70km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 8 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
We are spoiled for choice
Lake Chambon, a gem throughout the seasons!
In summer, this artificial lake becomes a true playground for all adventurers. We recommend walking around it for a moment of peace and discovery. Fancy a dip? The beach awaits, and why not try swimming to Île de l'Amour (Love Island)? For a touch of adventure, rent a bike or a kayak and explore the Auvergne region in a different way!
In winter, the lake's charm is just as captivating. A stroll around the lake, with the snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, is perfect for a breath of fresh air. If the lake is frozen, you can get out your skates and glide through a magical setting. And for those less athletically inclined, it's the perfect time to savor the cozy atmosphere by the lake, sharing a great moment with friends. A day in nature at your own pace, a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement!
On our way to Clermont-Ferrand!
It's time to head back to the city! Tonight, we'll celebrate our meeting, our achievements, and our experiences with a delicious dinner and, why not, explore the local nightlife!
Day 4 -
Goodbye Auvergne
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Departure and goodbye
It's time to say goodbye, after having spent the last few days putting the world to rights. One thing is for sure, we can't wait to get together again for the next WeRoad adventure!
Day 5
Accommodation
Price details
The price includes
4 nights in a shared room with private bathroom for the duration of the trip
All breakfasts
Rental car from day 2 to day 4
The coordinator's services
Free cancellation with 100% refund up to 31 days before departure
Medical insurance - baggage (coverage limits of €10,000 for Italy, €20,000 for Europe, €30,000 worldwide, €50,000 for the United States and Canada)
The price does not include
- Round-trip transportation to destination
- Meals and drinks when not specified
- All the extras you'd like to buy and that you'll manage to fit in your backpack :)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.