Exploring the Natural Wonders of Auvergne Volcanoes with Jean-Pierre

Echoes of the Past

Today, Jean-Pierre and I delved deeper into the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes, exploring the intersection of geological wonder and medieval history. It was a day filled with fascinating discoveries, a testament to the rich tapestry of this region. As we drove through the rolling hills, the landscape itself told stories of ancient eruptions and the resilience of life that followed.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Auberge de la Baraque. The charming atmosphere and delicious French pastries fueled us for the day ahead. It's these little moments, savoring local flavors, that make our travels so special. The restaurant was cozy, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I couldn't help but think how lucky we were to be experiencing such a culinary gem so early in the morning. It reminded me of the small trattorias in Arezzo, where simple, quality ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary.


Discover exquisite Haute French cuisine at Auberge de la Baraque in Orcines, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and culinary excellence.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the Castle of Saint-Étienne – Museum of Volcanoes. Perched atop a hill in Aurillac, the castle offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The structure itself is steeped in history, originally built in the 9th century. It has served as a military stronghold and a Benedictine abbey before becoming the home of the Museum of Volcanoes.


Explore a historic castle and delve into the world of volcanology at the Castle of Saint-Étienne, home to the Museum of Volcanoes, offering panoramic views of Aurillac and the Auvergne region.

Inside, the museum offered an engaging and educational experience. Interactive displays and exhibits detailed the geological history of the Auvergne region, focusing on the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape. I was particularly fascinated by the collections of rocks, minerals, and fossilized plants, which provided a tangible connection to the Earth's processes and the region's natural history. Jean-Pierre, with his architectural background, was captivated by the castle's layered construction, noting the distinct features from the 9th, 12th, and 14th centuries.

To truly understand a place, one must explore its history, both natural and human.

After immersing ourselves in the volcanic history of the region, we drove towards Murol Castle. As we approached, the castle dominated the skyline, a formidable medieval fortress perched on a basalt outcrop. The August sun cast long shadows across the landscape, adding to the dramatic effect. I could almost imagine knights in shining armor defending its walls.


Discover Murol Castle, a majestic medieval fortress in the heart of Auvergne, France, offering a captivating journey through history with stunning panoramic views.

Murol Castle is a unique medieval fortress offering guided tours. The castle has a keep, rampart walk, fortified gatehouse and towers. As we walked through the castle, I was transported back in time. The stone walls, the narrow staircases, and the panoramic views from the ramparts all spoke of a rich and turbulent past. It was easy to see why French writer George Sand was inspired by this castle in her novel *Jean de la Roche*.

Jean-Pierre was particularly interested in the castle's defensive architecture, pointing out the various design elements that made it such a formidable stronghold. We learned about the castle's history, from its origins in the 12th century to its modifications during the Wars of Religion. It was fascinating to see how the castle had evolved over time, adapting to changing military technologies and social conditions. I was thinking how Sofia would have loved to explore the castle with us and learn about the medieval times.

For lunch, we stopped at Le Christiana in La Tour-d'Auvergne. This charming restaurant offered a taste of traditional French cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed a delightful meal of local specialties, savoring the flavors of the Auvergne region. The restaurant had a nice vacation feel and the food was artistically presented. I opted for a salad, while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a hearty steak. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring castles and museums.


Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Christiana in La Tour-d'Auvergne - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

In the late afternoon, we took some time to explore the local shops. We stopped by Les Volcans to look for souvenirs. I was hoping to find something unique to remind us of our time in the Auvergne Volcanoes. I ended up buying a small piece of lava stone jewelry, a tangible reminder of the region's volcanic past. Jean-Pierre found a beautiful handcrafted wooden bowl, perfect for holding fruit in our Montreal home.


Explore Les Volcans in La Bourboule for unique local gifts that capture the essence of the Auvergne region's culture and craftsmanship.

Before dinner, we returned to our hotel to freshen up and relax. We sat on our balcony, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant bleating of sheep. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.

For dinner, we had reservations at Hôtel Restaurant Origines par Adrien Descouls. This Michelin-starred restaurant promised a culinary experience to remember, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is known for its sleek contemporary design and views over the surrounding countryside. Chef Adrien Descouls' contemporary Auvergnat cooking has won him a Michelin star. Each dish was a work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures that delighted our senses. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was elegant and refined. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover exquisite Haute French cuisine at Hôtel Restaurant Origines in Le Broc – where culinary artistry meets exceptional hospitality.

As we savored our meal, we talked about our plans for tomorrow. We'll be heading to the Panoramic Domes and Gour de Tazenat. I'm particularly excited to see the Gour de Tazenat, a volcanic lake known for its stunning beauty. Jean-Pierre is looking forward to exploring the Panoramic Domes, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Before heading to bed, I spent some time writing in my travel journal, capturing the memories of the day. It's these little details, the sights, the sounds, the smells, that I want to remember forever. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible region with my beloved Jean-Pierre. Each day brings new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish. I am truly living *la dolce vita* in the heart of France.

Tomorrow promises more adventures as we continue our exploration of the Auvergne Volcanoes. Until then, *bonne nuit*!