Many claustrophobic travelers escape from Paris to the coastal regions of Provence and the Riviera only to find that the rest of Paris has done the same. But the few who slip away to the Massif Central, in the very heart of the country, find unadulterated beauty. The area plays host to a forested chain of extinct volcanoes—a beautiful and mystical landscape. The Auvergne’s countryside and wealth of outdoor adventures more than compensate for its tame nightlife. The towering Puy-de-Dôme offers prime views of the volcanic park, though the real hiking and skiing mecca is Le Mont-Dore , nestled in the shadow of a string of dormant volcanoes. The Massif’s varied terrain also caters to less adventurous travelers; in Le Puy-en-Velay , pumice-paved streets wind among Renaissance houses. The real draw for those seeking refuge are the mineral waters of Le Mont-Dore and Vichy , better known as France’s capital under Nazi occupation. Known for their healing powers, the waters and spas of these cities attract both curistes (those who believe in the healing powers of the springs) and the curious. Whether you come seeking relaxation or recreation, the Massif Central is sure to deliver.
☎ 04 73 Clermont-Ferrand During the Middle Ages, Clermont-Ferrand (clare-mohn-fur-rahn; pop. 141,000) existed as rival cities—Clermont and Montferrand—until Louis XIII merged them in 1630. Clermont ...more
☎ 04 73 Le Mont-Dore In an isolated valley where the Dordogne River is little more than a trickle, Le Mont-Dore (luh mohn-dohr; pop. 1700) sits at the foot of the largest volcano in a dormant range ...more
☎ 04 71 Le Puy-En-Velay Jutting crags of volcanic rock pierce the sky near Le Puy-en-Velay (luh pwee- uhn-vah-lay; pop. 20,500). For centuries, the city has served as the starting point for the 1600km ...more
☎ 04 70 Vichy On June 22, 1940, the French government signed the armistice at Rethondes, surrendering to the German military and submitting to Nazi occupation. The Nazis replaced Paris with Vichy ...more
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