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Puy de Gravenoire: A Volcanic Vista

Hike this extinct volcano near Clermont-Ferrand for panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Limagne plain.

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Puy de Gravenoire is an extinct volcano in the Chaîne des Puys, near Clermont-Ferrand, France. Its scoria slopes, once mined, now offer panoramic views of the Limagne plain and surrounding area. A popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, it provides a glimpse into the region's volcanic past.

A brief summary to Puy de Gravenoire

  • Royat, FR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, as the terrain can be uneven in some places.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially on warm days, as there are no facilities on the puy itself.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Be aware that access to the old quarry is prohibited due to safety concerns.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Royat, follow the signs towards Puy de Gravenoire. The route involves a steady uphill walk, but it is manageable for most fitness levels. The walk to the top from Royat will take approximately 1 hour. Limited parking is available near the trailhead. From the parking area, the path to the summit is well-marked.

  • Public Transport

    From Clermont-Ferrand, take the T2C bus line 4 to the 'Gravenoire' stop. From there, follow the road towards Puy de Gravenoire. The walk from the bus stop to the base of the puy takes approximately 30 minutes. Bus tickets cost around €1.60. Check the Clermoov app for real-time bus schedules.

  • Driving

    From Clermont-Ferrand, take the N89 towards Beaumont. Then, follow the D767 towards Gravenoire. Continue onto the D5. Follow signs for Puy de Gravenoire. Limited parking is available near the trailhead. Parking fees may apply, typically around €5 per day.

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Discover more about Puy de Gravenoire

Puy de Gravenoire, a prominent feature of the Chaîne des Puys in France, stands as a testament to the region's rich volcanic history. Located near Clermont-Ferrand, this extinct volcano offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and geological significance. Rising to an altitude of 821 meters, Puy de Gravenoire provides stunning panoramic views of the Limagne plain, the city of Clermont-Ferrand, and the surrounding Chaîne des Puys. The slopes of the puy are composed of scoria, a dark, porous volcanic rock that was once extensively mined for use as pouzzolane. This mining activity, which ceased in 1978, has left visible scars on the landscape, particularly on the western and eastern flanks of the puy. Today, Puy de Gravenoire is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The summit can be reached via a relatively easy route, known as the "chemin du relais de Grave Noire". From the top, visitors can appreciate the alignment of the Limagne Fault and the distinctive volcanic cones that characterize the Chaîne des Puys. The area is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature walks and birdwatching. The volcano's Strombolian eruption 60,000 years ago created a massive debris avalanche, the remains of which can still be seen in Beaumont.

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