Summit Views Made Easy: The Panoramique des Dômes
Ascend to the summit of Puy de Dôme via an electric rack railway for breathtaking panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore Roman ruins.
The Panoramique des Dômes offers an unparalleled experience, providing effortless access to the summit of the Puy de Dôme, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in the Chaîne des Puys. This electric rack railway whisks visitors to the top in just 15 minutes, revealing breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the summit, explore ancient Roman ruins, walking trails, and a visitor center, all while immersing yourself in the unique geological and natural history of the region. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking stunning panoramic vistas, the Panoramique des Dômes offers an unforgettable journey to the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes. It's a perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and historical significance, making it a must-see destination for any traveler to the area. The experience is enhanced by the preservation efforts and the commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring the protection of this exceptional natural site for future generations.
A brief summary to Panoramic Domes
- Chemin du Couleyras, Orcines, 63870, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Tuesday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Wednesday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Thursday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Friday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Saturday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
- Sunday 8:45 am-7:15 pm
Local tips
- Book your Panoramique des Dômes tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid potential queues.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit; clear days offer the most spectacular panoramic views, but the summit can be windy and cooler than the base.
- Allow ample time to explore the summit, including the Roman temple ruins, the Maison de Site visitor center, and the various walking trails offering different perspectives.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Clermont-Ferrand, take bus line 5 towards Orcines. Get off at the 'Panoramique des Dômes' stop, which is directly at the base of the railway. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A single ticket costs around €1.60. From the bus stop, it's a short, signposted walk to the Panoramique des Dômes entrance.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Clermont-Ferrand city center to the Panoramique des Dômes base station in Orcines takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €30-€40 for the ride. Ensure the driver knows you want to go to the Panoramique des Dômes, as it's the most direct access point to the Puy de Dôme summit.
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Driving
From Clermont-Ferrand, follow the D941 towards Orcines. Continue on the D941, following signs for 'Panoramique des Dômes'. The drive takes about 20 minutes. There is parking available at the base station, but it can get busy during peak season. Parking fees vary, with hourly rates around €2 and a daily rate of approximately €10. Consider arriving early to secure a parking spot.
Discover more about Panoramic Domes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Creux de la Berté
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Puy des Goules
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Statue of Vercingetorix
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Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
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Frac Auvergne
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Route Historique des Châteaux d'Auvergne
8.0 km
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Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park
9.2 km
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L'Aventure Michelin
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Basilica of Notre-Dame in Orcival
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Vierge de Monton
16.8 km
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Abbatiale Saint Austremoine
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Auvergnetournage
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Château de Parentignat
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Château d'Aulteribe
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Abbaye de la Chaise-Dieu
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Unmissable attractions to see
Temple of Mercury
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Puy de Dôme
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Chemin Des Muletiers
2.1 km
Hike the historic Chemin des Muletiers to the summit of Puy de Dôme for panoramic views of Auvergne's volcanic landscape and a glimpse into Gallo-Roman history.
Escalier Puy Pariou
2.7 km
Hike to the summit of Puy Pariou, an iconic volcano in Auvergne, and witness breathtaking panoramic views from its crater rim, a symbol of the region's volcanic heritage.
Puy Pariou
2.9 km
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Puy de Gravenoire
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Vulcania
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Volcan de Lemptégy
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Planetarium De Vulcania
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Puy de Lemptégy
5.9 km
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Dragon Ride 2 à Vulcania
5.9 km
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Namazu à Vulcania
6.0 km
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Parc Montjuzet
6.9 km
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Fontaine majestueuse
7.4 km
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Fontaine Wallace
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Essential places to dine
Le Village Auvergnat
1.4 km
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Le Petit Casse Graine
1.7 km
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Le Resto d'Epicure
1.9 km
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Auberge de la Baraque
2.8 km
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Le Relais des Puys, Logis
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Archipel Volcans
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ESPACE VOLCAN
4.1 km
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Auberge de la moreno
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Logis Auberge de la Moréno
4.6 km
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La Belle Meunière Hôtel & Restaurant Gastronomique
5.1 km
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La Flèche d'Argent
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Restaurant Le Pré
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Restaurant du Volcan de Lemptégy
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Comptoir du cratère
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JCL Restaurant Jean Claude Leclerc
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Le Comptoir Irlandais Clermont-Ferrand
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L'Adresse Boutique
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Nos belles choses
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Galeries Lafayette Clermont
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Centre Jaude
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Clermont Auvergne Volcanoes Office De Clermont-Ferrand
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La Galerie Nacarat
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La Coop des Dômes
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Stores de France
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Delirium Café
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Le Sankito
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The Salvation Jane Pub
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Les canailles
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