Temple of Mercury: A Roman Sanctuary Atop Puy de Dôme
Explore the Temple of Mercury atop Puy de Dôme: a Gallo-Roman sanctuary with stunning views of Auvergne's volcanic landscape. A journey through history!
Perched atop the Puy de Dôme volcano in Auvergne, France, the Temple of Mercury's ruins offer a glimpse into Gallo-Roman religious practices. Built in the 2nd century AD, this temple replaced an earlier structure and became a significant pilgrimage site, dedicated to Mercury, the Roman god of commerce and travelers.
A brief summary to Temple of Mercury
- Orcines, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the temple ruins is uneven.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the summit can be windy and the views are best on a clear day.
- Visit the Temple of Mercury museum space to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
- Consider taking the Panoramique des Dômes cogwheel train for an easy and scenic ascent to the summit.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Clermont-Ferrand, take the shuttle bus to the Maison de Site at the foot of Puy de Dôme. From there, board the Panoramique des Dômes, a cogwheel train, for a 15-minute ride to the summit. Check the Panoramique des Dômes website for the most up-to-date schedule. A one-way adult ticket costs €14.40 in low season and €15.50 in high season.
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Walking
For a more adventurous approach, hike to the summit via the Chemin des Muletiers. This trail begins at the Col de Ceyssat parking lot, a 15-minute drive from Clermont-Ferrand. The hike is approximately 2.5 km with a 350m elevation gain and takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Parking at Col de Ceyssat is free. Arrive early, especially in peak season, as the lot fills quickly.
Discover more about Temple of Mercury
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Creux de la Berté
0.8 km
Discover the dramatic landscapes of Creux de la Berté, a volcanic crater in Ceyssat offering panoramic views and unique geological experiences.
Puy des Goules
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and scenic trails of Puy des Goules, a mountain peak perfect for outdoor adventures in Orcines, France.
Statue of Vercingetorix
9.1 km
A bronze equestrian statue in Clermont-Ferrand's Place de Jaude, honoring Vercingetorix, the Gallic leader who defied Julius Caesar.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
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Discover Clermont-Ferrand's iconic Gothic cathedral, a striking masterpiece built from black lava stone with soaring spires and stunning stained glass.
Frac Auvergne
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Explore contemporary art at FRAC Auvergne in Clermont-Ferrand: exhibitions, workshops, and a diverse collection await!
Route Historique des Châteaux d'Auvergne
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L'Aventure Michelin
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Basilica of Notre-Dame in Orcival
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Vierge de Monton
18.2 km
Majestic Virgin Mary statue overlooking the Auvergne landscape, offering panoramic views and a rich history.
Auvergnetournage
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Abbatiale Saint Austremoine
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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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Anjony Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
Puy de Dôme
0.2 km
Ascend to the summit of Puy de Dôme for breathtaking panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the rich history and natural beauty of this iconic volcano.
Chemin Des Muletiers
0.4 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.
Panoramic Domes
1.7 km
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.
Escalier Puy Pariou
2.4 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
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.
Vulcania
5.0 km
Explore the thrilling world of volcanoes and Earth's natural wonders at Vulcania, an unforgettable science and amusement park nestled in the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes.
Dragon Ride 2 à Vulcania
5.1 km
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Planetarium De Vulcania
5.1 km
Embark on an unforgettable cosmic journey at Planetarium De Vulcania, France's largest planetarium, offering immersive shows, interactive exhibits, and a deep dive into the wonders of space and Earth.
Volcan de Lemptégy
5.1 km
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Namazu à Vulcania
5.2 km
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Puy de Lemptégy
5.3 km
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Puy de Gravenoire
6.9 km
Hike to the summit of Puy de Gravenoire near Royat for panoramic views of Clermont-Ferrand, the Chaîne des Puys, and the Limagne Fault, experiencing Auvergne's volcanic landscape.
Parc Montjuzet
8.6 km
Discover panoramic views and lush gardens at Parc Montjuzet in Clermont-Ferrand, a historic park offering a green escape with recreational activities and artistic treasures for all ages.
Parc naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne
8.7 km
Discover the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Auvergne, France. Hike dormant peaks, explore serene lakes, and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture.
Ruine Du Chateau De Montrognon
10.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Le Resto d'Epicure
0.2 km
Discover gourmet dining with breathtaking views at Le Resto d'Epicure on Puy de Dôme - where every bite celebrates local flavors.
Archipel Volcans
3.0 km
Experience comfort and exquisite French cuisine at Archipel Volcans in Saint-Gènes-Champanelle - your gateway to nature's beauty.
Le Village Auvergnat
3.0 km
Savor authentic French cuisine in Orcines at Le Village Auvergnat – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Le Petit Casse Graine
3.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Casse Graine in Orcines, where local flavors meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable meal.
ESPACE VOLCAN
3.5 km
Explore Auvergne's stunning volcanic landscapes from ESPACE VOLCAN - your comfortable base for adventure and relaxation.
Auberge de la moreno
3.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in the stunning surroundings of Saint-Gènes-Champanelle at Auberge de la Moreno.
Logis Auberge de la Moréno
3.6 km
Discover the charm of Logis Auberge de la Moréno - your gateway to exploring the stunning Auvergne region with comfort and style.
Auberge de la Baraque
4.5 km
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Le Relais des Puys, Logis
4.5 km
Experience authentic French hospitality at Le Relais des Puys in Orcines—your perfect blend of comfort and exquisite dining awaits.
Comptoir du cratère
5.1 km
Enjoy delicious fast food amidst breathtaking landscapes at Comptoir du Cratère in Saint-Ours.
Restaurant du Volcan de Lemptégy
5.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst stunning volcanic landscapes at Restaurant du Volcan de Lemptégy.
La Belle Meunière Hôtel & Restaurant Gastronomique
6.8 km
Discover La Belle Meunière: An exquisite hotel and gastronomic experience in Royat offering haute French cuisine and elegant accommodations.
Restaurant Le Pré
7.1 km
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La Flèche d'Argent
7.1 km
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Hôtel Restaurant Volcan Sancy
7.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Boutiques du puy de Dôme
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Boutique Auvergne à Vulcania
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Le Comptoir Irlandais Clermont-Ferrand
8.8 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at Le Comptoir Irlandais in Clermont-Ferrand, a unique gift shop offering clothing, gourmet foods, and more.
L'Adresse Boutique
8.9 km
Explore L'Adresse Boutique in Clermont-Ferrand for unique women's fashion that blends elegance and contemporary style, perfect for any occasion.
Nos belles choses
9.0 km
Discover the charm of vintage elegance at Nos Belles Choses, Clermont-Ferrand's premier antique furniture store, where each piece tells a story.
Galeries Lafayette Clermont
9.1 km
Discover the charm of Galeries Lafayette Clermont, a shopping paradise offering fashion, beauty, and unique finds in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand.
Centre Jaude
9.1 km
Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Centre Jaude, the vibrant heart of Clermont-Ferrand's retail scene.
Very Nice Things
9.4 km
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AFK Shopping
9.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at AFK Shopping in Clermont-Ferrand, a delightful gift shop filled with charm and creativity.
Clermont Auvergne Volcanoes Office De Clermont-Ferrand
9.4 km
Discover the Clermont Auvergne Volcanoes Office, your gateway to exploring breathtaking volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Auvergne.
La Galerie Nacarat
12.2 km
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La Coop des Dômes
12.5 km
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VOLCANIC CYCLES
15.1 km
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Le Store Auvergnat
17.0 km
Elevate your living spaces with exquisite window treatments at Le Store Auvergnat in Tallende, France.
Stores de France
17.1 km
Explore the exquisite window treatments at Stores de France, Cournon-d'Auvergne, where elegance meets functionality.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mojitos bar
8.8 km
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The Viking Pub Counter
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of The Viking Pub Counter, Clermont-Ferrand's charming destination for local brews and hearty meals.
Un Singe en Hiver
8.9 km
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Les BerThoM
9.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Les BerThoM, a bar that combines charm, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
LA BAMBOCHE - BAR CLERMONT-FERRAND
9.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance of La Bamboche in Clermont-Ferrand, where drinks flow and karaoke lights up the night!
Le Coq Argenté
9.2 km
Discover the essence of Clermont-Ferrand at Le Coq Argenté, a vibrant bar offering exquisite drinks and a lively local atmosphere.
Delirium Café
9.2 km
Discover Delirium Café in Clermont-Ferrand, a vibrant beer hall offering an extensive selection of brews in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Le Distil
9.2 km
Discover Le Distil, Clermont-Ferrand's charming wine bar, where exquisite local and international wines await in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Le Chapelier Toqué
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Chapelier Toqué, a beloved bar in Clermont-Ferrand offering a delightful selection of beverages.
Le Charleston
9.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Le Charleston, Clermont-Ferrand’s top cocktail bar offering innovative drinks in a lively atmosphere.
L’Arrozoir
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at L'Arrozoir, Clermont-Ferrand's premier cocktail bar, offering creative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Le Sankito
9.3 km
Experience the excitement of darts and vibrant nightlife at Le Sankito, the premier dart bar in Clermont-Ferrand.
Le Bacchus
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Le Bacchus, a cozy bar known for its exquisite drinks and lively ambiance.
The Salvation Jane Pub
9.4 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.
Les canailles
9.4 km
Discover the exquisite world of wines at Les Canailles, a charming wine bar in Clermont-Ferrand offering a delightful selection and warm ambiance.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Modjo Club
8.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Modjo Club, where music, dance, and excitement await every night.
Bombshell
9.0 km
Discover Clermont-Ferrand's nightlife at Bombshell, an electrifying night club perfect for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Le them's
9.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Le Them's, Clermont-Ferrand's must-visit disco club for an unforgettable party experience.
Otherside
9.0 km
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Le Middle Night
9.0 km
Discover the electric nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Le Middle Night, the ultimate disco club for music lovers and party enthusiasts.
Private Club
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Private Club, Clermont-Ferrand's premier destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
One o One 101
9.2 km
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LE FROG
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Frog in Clermont-Ferrand, a disco club where you can dance, socialize, and enjoy great music until dawn.
The Baraka Club
9.7 km
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Zyzy Folies
10.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Zyzy Folies, where music, cocktails, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.
L'Usine
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at L'Usine, a premier disco club with electrifying music and a lively atmosphere.
Cap Club
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cap Club in Aubière, where music and dance come together for a memorable night out.
Taverne de la chienne
45.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Puy-Guillaume at Taverne de la Chienne, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing.
Discothèque La Prade
58.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Discothèque La Prade in Champagnat, France—a must-visit for tourists seeking an unforgettable clubbing experience.
Le Number NightClub
63.6 km
Unleash your energy at Le Number NightClub in Aubusson, where the nightlife pulses with rhythm and excitement until dawn.
