Exploring the Natural Wonders of Auvergne Volcanoes with Jean-Pierre

Volcanic Heights and Lively Nights

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of the Auvergne Volcanoes. Jean-Pierre and I set out to conquer Puy Pariou and explore the Chaîne des Puys, immersing ourselves in the heart of this volcanic landscape. From the satisfying climb to the delightful local cuisine and a taste of the region's nightlife, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments.


Hike to the summit of Puy Pariou, an iconic volcano in Auvergne's Chaîne des Puys, and witness breathtaking panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Auberge de la Loue in Vodable. The charming auberge exuded a rustic warmth, and the breakfast was incredibly generous. We enjoyed fresh bread, local cheeses, and strong coffee, fueling up for our morning hike. I made sure to jot down a few notes in my travel journal, capturing the cozy ambiance of the place. It’s these little details that I love to remember and share. Jean-Pierre, ever the architect, admired the exposed stonework and the way the light streamed through the windows.

With our backpacks packed and our spirits high, we drove towards Puy Pariou, eager to experience one of the most iconic volcanoes in the Chaîne des Puys. The drive itself was stunning, with rolling green hills and glimpses of other volcanic peaks in the distance. We parked at the Goules car park, the starting point for our ascent.

The hike up Puy Pariou was invigorating. The trail began in a lovely forest, the air filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. As we climbed, the trees gradually gave way to open slopes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The moderate difficulty of the hike was just perfect, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without feeling too strained. I did miss the sunscreen I had forgotten, though! The sun was stronger than I anticipated, and I made a mental note to buy some as soon as possible. Jean-Pierre, with his usual steady pace, kept me motivated, and we reached the summit in good time.

And what a reward it was! The crater of Puy Pariou is truly a sight to behold. It's a perfect, deep bowl, a testament to the volcanic forces that shaped this region. We carefully descended into the crater, marveling at the steep walls and the unique perspective from the bottom. The steps were a bit challenging, but manageable, even for children, as I overheard a family say.

The beauty of the Auvergne Volcanoes lies not only in their geological significance but also in their power to inspire awe and wonder.

Back at the top, we took our time to soak in the panoramic views. From our vantage point, we could see the entire Chaîne des Puys, a chain of about 80 volcanoes stretching as far as the eye could see. The Puy de Dôme, the highest volcano in the range, stood proudly in the distance. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of it all. Jean-Pierre pointed out the geological formations, explaining how the volcanoes were formed by continental break-up and the rise of magma. His knowledge always adds an extra layer of depth to our explorations.

After descending Puy Pariou, we drove along the Chaîne des Puys, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the different volcanoes and learn about their individual characteristics. The landscape is a fascinating mix of cinder cones, lava domes, and maars, each with its own unique story to tell. It’s incredible to think that this area was once considered just gentle hills before its volcanic origins were discovered in the 18th century.


Explore the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Auvergne, France, offering stunning volcanic landscapes, diverse hiking trails, and a unique geological experience for nature lovers.

Lunch was at La Table des Volcans in Murat, a restaurant recommended for its regional cuisine. We indulged in local specialties, savoring the flavors of Auvergne. I opted for the turkey, while Jean-Pierre chose the steak with truffle-infused potatoes. The service was charming, and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect midday break. As we enjoyed our meal, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting the Castle of Saint-Étienne - Museum of Volcanoes and Murol Castle. I am particularly excited about the Museum of Volcanoes, as it will give me a chance to delve deeper into the geological history of the region.

In the late afternoon, we decided to take a break at our hotel before venturing out again. I spent some time organizing my photos and jotting down notes from the day, while Jean-Pierre took a nap. It's important to have these moments of rest and reflection, especially on a busy trip like this.

As evening approached, we felt like experiencing some of Clermont-Ferrand's nightlife. So we headed to LE FROG, a bar known for its cozy atmosphere. While it wasn’t highly rated by all Google users, we were curious to see for ourselves. We found a comfortable spot and ordered some drinks. The bar had a relaxed vibe, and we enjoyed chatting with some locals and soaking in the ambiance. It wasn't the most lively place, but it was perfect for a laid-back evening.


Discover Clermont-Ferrand's nightlife at Le Frog, a dynamic disco club where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

For dinner, we chose Le Puy D'alou, a restaurant known for its traditional and local cuisine. It was a bit of a drive, but the positive reviews convinced us to give it a try. And we weren't disappointed! The restaurant was spacious and welcoming, and the food was absolutely delicious. I had the truffade, which was the best I've ever tasted, and Jean-Pierre enjoyed a hearty meat dish. The waiter was incredibly kind, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Puy D'alou in picturesque Le Vernet-Sainte-Marguerite - A true culinary delight!

As we drove back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the challenging hike up Puy Pariou to the delightful culinary experiences and the taste of local nightlife, it was a day that truly captured the essence of the Auvergne Volcanoes. I am so grateful to be sharing these experiences with Jean-Pierre, whose love for nature and sustainable design perfectly complements my own passion for culture and history. Tomorrow, we'll continue our exploration, delving deeper into the region's volcanic past and discovering more of its hidden gems.

I am particularly looking forward to visiting the Castle of Saint-Étienne - Museum of Volcanoes. It is supposed to have a comprehensive collection of exhibits and information about the volcanoes in the area, and I can’t wait to learn more about the geological processes that shaped this unique landscape. And of course, I am also excited about visiting Murol Castle. Castles always spark my imagination, and I am eager to explore its ancient walls and learn about its history. I am also planning to visit Les Volcans shop tomorrow. It would be nice to bring something back home with us that reminds us of the wonderful time we had here. Perhaps a small piece of volcanic rock or a local craft item.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” This quote perfectly encapsulates my insatiable curiosity and desire to explore new places. And I am so grateful to have Jean-Pierre by my side, sharing these adventures with me. We are truly making memories that will last a lifetime. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The Auvergne Volcanoes have already captured my heart, and I know there are many more wonders waiting to be discovered.