Hiking the lakes and volcanoes of Auvergne

For hiking:

1. Telescopic walking sticks, which are very important for making walking easier.
2. Mountain boots that provide good ankle support, with a good lugged sole, a heel counter and good waterproofing.

For a picnic lunch:

1. Prepare your own cooking kit consisting of a bowl, a box or a plastic plate, as well as cutlery (spoon, fork, knife).
2. Bring one or two water bottles with a total capacity of at least 1.5 liters – this is mandatory. For the winter months, a thermos water bottle is recommended.

To protect you from the sun and rain:

1. Use a high protection sunscreen.
2. Don't forget sunglasses, a cap, a hat or a bucket hat.
3. Bring a rain cape or a waterproof jacket of the "softshell" or "Gore-Tex" type, as well as waterproof trousers if necessary.

Hiking tips:

For a comfortable hiking experience, a layering system is recommended. This involves wearing warm base layers such as tights and breathable base layers made of breathable, breathable fibers, a sweatshirt or fleece jacket, and a mountain jacket and overpants made of a waterproof and breathable membrane (such as Gore-Tex or similar materials) for harsh weather. Generally, it's best to avoid cotton, which retains moisture close to the body (and dries slowly), in favor of suitable synthetic materials, except in hot climates.

Here are also the clothes you should bring:

• Comfortable "hiking-specific" socks (at least 3 pairs).
  
• A fleece jacket.
  
• Comfortable walking trousers made from quick-drying technical material.
  
• Comfortable and technical shorts.
  
• Technical t-shirts or underwear, made of quick-drying material.
  
• A long-sleeved shirt.
  

It's worth noting that while technical synthetic clothing performs very well, there are also new merino wool garments that are both high-performing and comfortable to wear. Furthermore, they have the advantage of not developing perspiration odors.

After the effort :

• A pair of casual sneakers for the evening
  
• Change of clothes and personal toiletries
  
• Toiletry bag and small towel
  
• Swimsuit and large towel for fitness facilities or swimming occasions