The Majestic Mounts of Cantal
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mounts of Cantal, a volcanic wonderland in the heart of France, offering stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences.
The Mounts of Cantal, the remnants of Europe's largest stratovolcano, offer a breathtaking landscape of rounded peaks, verdant valleys, and dramatic geological formations. Located within the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, this area is a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility away from the crowded tourist trails. Explore the iconic Puy Mary, ascend the Plomb du Cantal, discover charming villages with volcanic stone architecture, and immerse yourself in the region's rich pastoral traditions. The Monts du Cantal promise an unforgettable experience in the heart of France's volcanic landscape, with diverse hiking trails, winter sports at Le Lioran, and the chance to spot local wildlife like chamois and marmots.
A brief summary to Mounts of Cantal
- Saint-Jacques-des-Blats, FR
Local tips
- Pack for all types of weather, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly, even in summer. Layers are key!
- Try the local Cantal cheese! Visit a local farm or fromagerie to sample this regional specialty.
- Consider hiking a portion of the GR 400 for a comprehensive exploration of the Cantal volcano.
- Visit in the shoulder seasons (late spring or early autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Check the operating hours of the Le Lioran cable car in advance if you plan to ascend the Plomb du Cantal that way.
Getting There
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Driving
From Saint-Jacques-des-Blats, the Mounts of Cantal are easily accessible by car. Several roads lead into the heart of the mountains, offering scenic drives and access to various trailheads and attractions. For example, to reach Puy Mary, follow the D680 towards the Pas de Peyrol, the highest road pass in the Massif Central. Parking is available at the pass, but it can be limited during peak season. Be aware that roads in the mountains can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully. Consider using a GPS device or map to navigate, as cell service can be unreliable in some areas.
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Public Transport
While public transport options directly to the higher peaks are limited, buses connect Saint-Jacques-des-Blats to nearby towns like Aurillac and Murat. From these towns, you can access trailheads or connect to other local transport options. For example, from Aurillac, you can take a train to Le Lioran, the ski resort, and then access hiking trails or the cable car to Plomb du Cantal. Check local bus and train schedules in advance, as services may be infrequent, especially on weekends and during the off-season. The 'Lignes du volcan' bus service provides connections to some key locations during the summer months. A bus from Saint-Jacques-des-Blats to Aurillac costs approximately €5-€8.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are available in Aurillac and other larger towns in the area, but they can be expensive for trips into the mountains. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are not readily available in this rural region. A taxi from Aurillac to Saint-Jacques-des-Blats, located near the base of the mountains, would cost approximately €65-€85.
Discover more about Mounts of Cantal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anjony Castle
21.4 km
Explore Anjony Castle: A majestic medieval fortress with stunning frescoes and rich history in the heart of the Cantal region of France.
Chateau Auvergne France
30.4 km
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Tours de Merle
53.1 km
Discover the medieval mysteries of Tours de Merle, a unique fortified village in the heart of the Corrèze, where seven noble families once reigned.
Abbatiale Saint Austremoine
67.4 km
Discover the Romanesque splendor of Abbatiale Saint-Austremoine in Issoire, a vibrant testament to Auvergne's rich history and artistic heritage.
Château de Parentignat
68.4 km
Discover the 'Little Versailles of Auvergne' at Château de Parentignat, a preserved 18th-century estate with master paintings and English gardens.
Atlas Bordeaux
68.9 km
Discover Bordeaux's rich wine heritage and breathtaking landscapes with Atlas Bordeaux, your premier tour agency for unforgettable experiences.
Basilica of Notre-Dame in Orcival
70.7 km
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Château de La Grèze
72.4 km
Experience the charm of Château de La Grèze, a serene guest house in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich heritage.
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park
73.3 km
Discover France's largest volcanic park: hike ancient trails, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in Auvergne's natural beauty.
Vierge de Monton
76.9 km
Majestic Virgin Mary statue overlooking the Auvergne landscape, offering panoramic views and a rich history.
Abbaye de la Chaise-Dieu
80.0 km
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Musee Du Cloitre
80.5 km
Explore Tulle's heritage within the historic Musée du Cloître, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and regional history.
Creux de la Berté
82.5 km
Discover the dramatic landscapes of Creux de la Berté, a volcanic crater in Ceyssat offering panoramic views and unique geological experiences.
Château de Sévérac
84.7 km
Explore the enchanting Château de Sévérac, a historic castle in Aveyron, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and engaging cultural experiences.
Statue of Vercingetorix
84.9 km
A bronze equestrian statue in Clermont-Ferrand's Place de Jaude, honoring Vercingetorix, the Gallic leader who defied Julius Caesar.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tourist Office and the Auvergne Volcanoes Park
11.5 km
Explore the Auvergne Volcanoes Park from Murat: Discover hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and local culture in the heart of France's largest volcanic region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
GR 400 Tour des Volcans du Cantal (Auvergne)
11.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of the Cantal Volcano on this iconic 140km hiking trail, perfect for both seasoned trekkers and casual nature lovers.
Château de Saint Chamant
24.3 km
Discover centuries of French history at Château de Saint-Chamant, a majestic castle in the Cantal region with stunning architecture, art, and panoramic views of the Auvergne countryside.
Castle of Saint-Étienne - Museum of Volcanoes
27.1 km
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.
Source du Par
29.5 km
Discover Europe's hottest natural spring in Chaudes-Aigues, a charming village with a rich geothermal history, offering thermal spas, unique architecture, and stunning landscapes.
Lac d'en haut La Godivelle
39.7 km
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Pont de Montvert
46.1 km
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Chaîne des Puys
50.2 km
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Cascade du Déroc
51.5 km
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Rocher de la cascade du Déroc
51.6 km
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Réserve naturelle nationale de Chastreix-Sancy
51.8 km
Explore the volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Chastreix-Sancy National Nature Reserve in Auvergne, a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking stunning scenery.
Puy de Sancy
53.4 km
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Monts Dore
53.5 km
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Abbaye de Bonneval
54.4 km
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Pont d'Estaing
55.6 km
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Essential places to dine
La Table des Volcans
11.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Table des Volcans in Murat - where every dish tells a story.
Paris Auvergne
12.8 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Paris Auvergne in Vic-sur-Cère—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Lac Des Graves
15.3 km
Experience nature's tranquility at Lac Des Graves—perfect for fishing, hiking, and enjoying local cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.
Auberge de La Cabane
45.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge de La Cabane in Saint-Alyre-ès-Montagne - where tradition meets taste.
Le Christiana
53.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Christiana in La Tour-d'Auvergne—where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Auberge de Reine Margot
53.9 km
Discover the charm of Auberge de Reine Margot, where exquisite French cuisine meets warm hospitality in La Tour-d'Auvergne.
Auberge du Bougnat
57.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Bougnat in Saint-Victor-la-Rivière—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
La Vieille Etable
58.5 km
Experience the charm of traditional French cuisine at La Vieille Etable in Mont-Dore - a culinary delight surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Auberge de la Loue
59.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of France at Auberge de la Loue in Vodable, where exquisite cuisine meets charming hospitality.
L'Arbalète
60.1 km
Discover authentic French flavors at L'Arbalète in Murol - where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Les Fées Mères restaurant Gastronomique
60.3 km
Experience exquisite Haute French cuisine at Les Fées Mères in La Bourboule – a culinary delight for every discerning palate.
Buron du Col de la Croix Morand
61.3 km
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Hôtel Restaurant Origines par Adrien Descouls
63.3 km
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Le Puy D'alou
64.1 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Puy D'alou in picturesque Le Vernet-Sainte-Marguerite - A true culinary delight!
Auberge de Margot
70.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lac Et Volcan (Sarl)
58.3 km
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Les Volcans
59.9 km
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lac et volcan concept store
59.9 km
Explore the Lac et Volcan Concept Store in La Bourboule for unique, handcrafted treasures that embody the spirit of the Auvergne region.
Le Store Auvergnat
75.6 km
Elevate your living spaces with exquisite window treatments at Le Store Auvergnat in Tallende, France.
Boutiques du puy de Dôme
82.5 km
Explore Boutiques du Puy de Dôme for exquisite gift baskets filled with local delicacies, perfect for souvenirs or a personal treat.
Stores de France
83.3 km
Explore the exquisite window treatments at Stores de France, Cournon-d'Auvergne, where elegance meets functionality.
La boutique
84.3 km
Explore La Boutique in Sévérac-d'Aveyron for unique clothing that blends local artistry with contemporary fashion, perfect for every traveler!
Centre Jaude
84.6 km
Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Centre Jaude, the vibrant heart of Clermont-Ferrand's retail scene.
L'Adresse Boutique
84.7 km
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Le Comptoir Irlandais Clermont-Ferrand
84.8 km
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Galeries Lafayette Clermont
84.8 km
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AFK Shopping
84.9 km
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Very Nice Things
84.9 km
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Nos belles choses
85.0 km
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Clermont Auvergne Volcanoes Office De Clermont-Ferrand
85.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Taverne
58.4 km
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Les Lokaux, bar restaurant
78.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine at Les Lokaux, a premier bar and restaurant in Les Martres-de-Veyre, perfect for all occasions.
Chez Mathilde
83.3 km
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LE 58B SOIRÉES À AUBIÈRE
83.9 km
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The Still Irish Bar
84.6 km
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Le Sankito
84.6 km
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Delirium Café
84.8 km
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Le Caveau des Anges
84.8 km
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The Viking Pub Counter
84.9 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of The Viking Pub Counter, Clermont-Ferrand's charming destination for local brews and hearty meals.
3 Monkeys Pub
84.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at 3 Monkeys Pub, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand.
Bar Des Beaux Arts
84.9 km
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Mojitos bar
84.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mojitos Bar in Clermont-Ferrand, where fresh mojitos and lively atmosphere await you.
Arsène
85.0 km
Discover the innovative cocktail scene at Arsène in Clermont-Ferrand, where expert mixologists create unforgettable drinks in a stylish setting.
Le Distil
85.0 km
Discover Le Distil, Clermont-Ferrand's charming wine bar, where exquisite local and international wines await in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
The Salvation Jane Pub
85.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance and unique craft beers at The Salvation Jane Pub in Clermont-Ferrand, a perfect spot for tourists seeking local culture.
