Running through a wooded valley that gives birth to the Dordogne, Le Mont Dore has been a spa and thermal resort for as long as anyone can remember. It has Roman Roman remnants but its modern-day popularity goes back to the 18th century, when roads replaced the mule paths making access possible to greater numbers. The baths in the middle of town - the Établissement Thermal –are worth visiting, with guided tours available.

Le Mont Dore is also popular with walkers with the Puy de Sancy, 1885m, 3km away a big draw. The signposted Grand Randonee route 30 (GR30) enables you to discover a wilder area heading as it does down to La Bourboule. Wonderful flowers carpet the meadows and fields headgerows and lanes throughout spring and summer.

In winter the area around the town comes into its own with several ski resorts offering a full range of winter sport activities.