Walking Through the Auvergne (8 days)
Discover Auvergne's Volcanoes
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A range of extinct volcanoes softened by subsequent glaciation stretches north to south along the backbone of France. Formed by the pressure created as the Alps and Pyrenees converged, some of these volcanoes, notably the Mont Dome near Clermont-Ferrand, were active as recently as 5000 years ago. Now classified as the “Parc des Volcans d'Auvergne” this is a possibly unique area in Europe for lovers of the countryside, and especially for walkers.
“Although France is well supplied with excellent walking areas, few . . can match the diversity of terrain, the spectacular scenery and the great sense of space that forms part of the wonderful Auvergne .” Thus wrote Robin Neillands 20 years ago, and it is just as true today. Gentians, wild daffodils, crocus and rare insectivorous plants carpet the fields in late spring and early summer, the blue sky is reflected in high crater-lakes whilst chamois and mountain ibex crop the more isolated slopes.
This spacious landscape of rolling hills is punctuated by dramatic rocky outcrops and deep valleys of tumbling streams and waterfalls. It is "la France profonde", a largely forgotten area left behind by the Industrial Revolution which transformed the rest of the country. Today it remains an area of rugged, individualistic charm that will delight anyone enthusiastic about traditional values and unspoiled landscapes.
This is a self-guided walking tour exploring this beautiful area. Comprehensive route notes allow you to walk at your own speed, enjoying the countryside, villages and unique scenery with baggage of course transferred between nightstops for you. With walks of around 16km each day this tour is suitable for any reasonably fit person who enjoys rambling.
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