9 best Vergheas walks

The Huit Croix (eight crosses)

Departure from Vergheas (Puy-de-Dôme)

A hike between rivers and woodland hills, in the Combrailles region.

Three small volcanic hills in a row (puys)

Departure from Orcines (Puy-de-Dôme)

"Human noise becomes silent, nature makes volcanoes chatter; whispering landscapes, and whispering a thousand voices of silence". Caption of the beautiful sculpture by Thierry Courtadon that you will encounter on your route, alongside with great viewpoints.

Puy-de-Dôme passing through the col de Ceyssat

Departure from Orcines (Puy-de-Dôme)

Just above Clermont-Ferrand, the inescapable climb to Puy-de-Dôme through the col de Ceyssat is a short but intense hike with an astonishing view over Clermont-Ferrand, the chaîne des Puys, paragliders and Millevaches.

Caution, it's a very popular walk so be sure to do it during week days for a bit of peace and quiet.

Puy de Dôme from the North face

Departure from Orcines (Puy-de-Dôme)

A very accessible ascent of the Puy de Dôme, despite the elevation gain. After the beautiful 'Chemins de la Roche Pertuisade and des Gravouses', which winds through pastures and woods at the foot of the puy, climb the Chemin des Chèvre, then the old road now used by the cog railway. Descent to the South via the Chemin des Muletiers, then back via the Chemin des Gouris.

Puy de Lassolas and Puy de la Vache

Departure from Saint-Genès-Champanelle (Puy-de-Dôme)

A short hike to climb two volcanoes with their typical open craters to delight amateur geologists and curious hikers. A beautiful view from the top of the Puy de Lassolas on over the Chaîne des Puys to the north and Monts Dore to the south.

Tour of the Étang de Montlosier by the puys

Departure from Aydat (Puy-de-Dôme)

A tour of the small Étang de Montlosier, passing three puys: Puy de Lassolas, Puy de la Vache and Puy de Vichatel. Magnificent views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Massif du Sancy.