last edited May 14, 2020
What to See in the Massif Central
Location Map of Massif Central
Massif Central
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Massif Central has two sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list:
Ways of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostela (1998)
This legendary UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route connects various European cities to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond its religious significance, it has become a classic hiking trail. One of the main French routes starts in Le Puy-en-Velay.
This legendary UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route connects various European cities to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond its religious significance, it has become a classic hiking trail. One of the main French routes starts in Le Puy-en-Velay.
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park (2018)
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Allier (03)
Charroux
Thanks in particular to its old half-timbered houses, Charroux is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Thanks in particular to its old half-timbered houses, Charroux is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
La Palice Castle
In the town of Lapalisse, a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this castle, enhanced by beautiful gardens.
In the town of Lapalisse, a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this castle, enhanced by beautiful gardens.
Montluçon
The largest municipality in the Allier department has old quarters and a certain religious heritage.
The largest municipality in the Allier department has old quarters and a certain religious heritage.
Moulins
The prefecture of Allier has a rather pretty town centre, predominantly medieval and Renaissance in style, with many half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries.
The prefecture of Allier has a rather pretty town centre, predominantly medieval and Renaissance in style, with many half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Natural Heritage
Sioule Gorges
These are pretty gorges overlooking the Sioule River, which flows through Puy de Dôme and Allier. You can go climbing, canoeing, and admire some old medieval castles and churches along the way.
These are pretty gorges overlooking the Sioule River, which flows through Puy de Dôme and Allier. You can go climbing, canoeing, and admire some old medieval castles and churches along the way.
Cantal (15)
Alleuze Castle
These are the remains of a medieval hilltop fortress with a rather pretty setting in the village of the same name.
These are the remains of a medieval hilltop fortress with a rather pretty setting in the village of the same name.
Auzers Castle
This castle, built between 1470 and 1510, is highly characteristic of the architecture of Haute Auvergne in the region.
This castle, built between 1470 and 1510, is highly characteristic of the architecture of Haute Auvergne in the region.
Conros Castle
This is a large medieval castle dating from the 13th century, located in Arpajon-sur-Cère.
This is a large medieval castle dating from the 13th century, located in Arpajon-sur-Cère.
La Vigne Castle
This is a medieval castle located in Ally. Built facing a beautiful panorama, it consists of living quarters and towers, with the whole topped by a walkway on machicolations.
This is a medieval castle located in Ally. Built facing a beautiful panorama, it consists of living quarters and towers, with the whole topped by a walkway on machicolations.
Pesteils Castle
With its grounds, this is a charming castle-museum—and one of the most beautiful in the region—located in Polminhac.
With its grounds, this is a charming castle-museum—and one of the most beautiful in the region—located in Polminhac.
Val Castle
This beautiful fortified castle sits on the edge of an (artificial) lake, giving it a certain charm. Though located in the Cantal department, in the commune of Lanobre, it is owned by the commune of Bort-les-Orgues in Corrèze.
This beautiful fortified castle sits on the edge of an (artificial) lake, giving it a certain charm. Though located in the Cantal department, in the commune of Lanobre, it is owned by the commune of Bort-les-Orgues in Corrèze.
Marcolès
Marcolès is a charming medieval village in southern Cantal. It is part of the "Petites Cités de Caractère" network.
Marcolès is a charming medieval village in southern Cantal. It is part of the "Petites Cités de Caractère" network.
Saint-Flour
This sub-prefecture has a charming hilltop old town with ramparts and a 15th-century cathedral.
This sub-prefecture has a charming hilltop old town with ramparts and a 15th-century cathedral.
Salers
Beyond being known for the cattle breed that bears its name, this commune is also labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France" for its architecture largely built from black volcanic stone, typical of the region.
Beyond being known for the cattle breed that bears its name, this commune is also labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France" for its architecture largely built from black volcanic stone, typical of the region.
Tournemire
With its castle, 12th-century church, and old houses, the village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
With its castle, 12th-century church, and old houses, the village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Garabit Viaduct
An impressive railway viaduct with a metal structure built by Gustave Eiffel in the late 19th century. It spans the Truyère Gorge.
An impressive railway viaduct with a metal structure built by Gustave Eiffel in the late 19th century. It spans the Truyère Gorge.
Natural Heritage
Cantal Mountains
A very pretty, sparsely populated region with numerous valleys connected by passes and extinct volcanoes (the puys: Mary, Griou, etc.). It's an ideal spot for outdoor sports, located within the Auvergne Volcanoes Park.
A very pretty, sparsely populated region with numerous valleys connected by passes and extinct volcanoes (the puys: Mary, Griou, etc.). It's an ideal spot for outdoor sports, located within the Auvergne Volcanoes Park.
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Puy Mary (Plomb du Cantal)
This is the second-highest peak in the Massif Central (1,855 m). You can reach it on foot or by cable car.
This is the second-highest peak in the Massif Central (1,855 m). You can reach it on foot or by cable car.
Puy Mary
One of the best-known and most visited "puys" in Auvergne. It's also a classic hiking destination.
One of the best-known and most visited "puys" in Auvergne. It's also a classic hiking destination.
Corrèze (19)
Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
Built on the banks of the Dordogne, this village has a castle and a 9th-century abbey church.
Built on the banks of the Dordogne, this village has a castle and a 9th-century abbey church.
Val Castle
This beautiful fortified castle sits on the edge of an (artificial) lake, giving it a certain charm. Though located in the Cantal department, in the commune of Lanobre, it is owned by the commune of Bort-les-Orgues in Corrèze.
This beautiful fortified castle sits on the edge of an (artificial) lake, giving it a certain charm. Though located in the Cantal department, in the commune of Lanobre, it is owned by the commune of Bort-les-Orgues in Corrèze.
Sédières Castle
In the commune of Clergoux. It is a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by ponds and forests where you can hike.
In the commune of Clergoux. It is a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by ponds and forests where you can hike.
Tours de Merle Castle
These are the vegetation-covered ruins of a medieval fortress located in Saint-Geniez ô Merle. The setting is what makes the site particularly interesting.
These are the vegetation-covered ruins of a medieval fortress located in Saint-Geniez ô Merle. The setting is what makes the site particularly interesting.
Collonges-la-Rouge
A stunning small village ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It owes its name to the use of red sandstone in its construction and is one of the most visited sites in Limousin.
A stunning small village ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It owes its name to the use of red sandstone in its construction and is one of the most visited sites in Limousin.
Curemonte
With its three churches and three castles perched on a ridge overlooking the surrounding valleys, it is one of the "most beautiful villages in France".
With its three churches and three castles perched on a ridge overlooking the surrounding valleys, it is one of the "most beautiful villages in France".
Gimel-les-Cascades
Although primarily known for its surrounding waterfalls, the village also boasts a beautiful architectural ensemble, including the remains of a fortified castle.
Although primarily known for its surrounding waterfalls, the village also boasts a beautiful architectural ensemble, including the remains of a fortified castle.
Meymac
A gateway to the Millevaches, the town also features a few interesting historic buildings, such as its abbey, market hall, and belfry.
A gateway to the Millevaches, the town also features a few interesting historic buildings, such as its abbey, market hall, and belfry.
Gallo-Roman Ruins of Les Cars
Fairly isolated in the heart of the Millevaches, the site consists of a funerary complex and a villa dating from the 2nd century AD.
Fairly isolated in the heart of the Millevaches, the site consists of a funerary complex and a villa dating from the 2nd century AD.
Saint-Robert
One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its old houses, small châteaux, and its 12th-century church.
One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its old houses, small châteaux, and its 12th-century church.
Ségur-le-Château
Built along a river, Ségur is one of the many communes in the region awarded the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" label, thanks in particular to its historic old houses.
Built along a river, Ségur is one of the many communes in the region awarded the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" label, thanks in particular to its historic old houses.
Treignac
A commune featuring a beautiful covered market, three churches or chapels, and several old houses.
A commune featuring a beautiful covered market, three churches or chapels, and several old houses.
Turenne
This hilltop village is listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its old houses built around its castle.
This hilltop village is listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its old houses built around its castle.
Natural Heritage
Vézère Gorge
This river, which rises in Corrèze before flowing on to the Dordogne, offers rafting and canoeing opportunities, particularly around Uzerche. You can also hike along the gorge.
This river, which rises in Corrèze before flowing on to the Dordogne, offers rafting and canoeing opportunities, particularly around Uzerche. You can also hike along the gorge.
Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Longéroux Bog
A vast bog on the Millevaches plateau at 900 m altitude. Educational trails have been set up here.
A vast bog on the Millevaches plateau at 900 m altitude. Educational trails have been set up here.
Creuse (23)
Chambon-sur-Voueize
A small town with an old bridge, a former monastery, and above all the Sainte-Valérie abbey church, one of the main Romanesque churches in the Limousin region.
A small town with an old bridge, a former monastery, and above all the Sainte-Valérie abbey church, one of the main Romanesque churches in the Limousin region.
Crozant Castle
These are the remains of a medieval fortress perched above a river’s meanders. The site offers a very beautiful panorama.
These are the remains of a medieval fortress perched above a river’s meanders. The site offers a very beautiful panorama.
Villemonteix Castle
This is a 15th-century castle located in the commune of Saint-Pardoux-les-Cards.
This is a 15th-century castle located in the commune of Saint-Pardoux-les-Cards.
Guéret
It's the prefecture of Creuse and a city that isn't necessarily one of the most tourist-oriented.
It's the prefecture of Creuse and a city that isn't necessarily one of the most tourist-oriented.
La Souterraine
This small town has preserved a few remnants of its past, such as the remains of its ramparts and its Romanesque collegiate church built in the 11th century.
This small town has preserved a few remnants of its past, such as the remains of its ramparts and its Romanesque collegiate church built in the 11th century.
Natural Heritage
Jarrauds Waterfall
In the south of the department, in Saint-Martin Château, this is one of the main waterfalls you can discover on foot via the "GR trail of waterfalls, moors, and peat bogs".
In the south of the department, in Saint-Martin Château, this is one of the main waterfalls you can discover on foot via the "GR trail of waterfalls, moors, and peat bogs".
Lake Vassivière
Straddling Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Millevaches Park, this is a major local tourism spot for swimming, water activities, and short hikes. In the middle of this artificial lake, an island houses a contemporary art centre.
Straddling Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Millevaches Park, this is a major local tourism spot for swimming, water activities, and short hikes. In the middle of this artificial lake, an island houses a contemporary art centre.
Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Jaumâtres Rocks
A cluster of large granite boulders located in Toulx-Sainte-Croix, in the northern part of the Creuse department.
A cluster of large granite boulders located in Toulx-Sainte-Croix, in the northern part of the Creuse department.
Haute-Loire (43)
La Chaise-Dieu Abbey
This is one of the best-known Benedictine abbeys in Auvergne and its main Gothic structure.
This is one of the best-known Benedictine abbeys in Auvergne and its main Gothic structure.
Arlempdes
In a very pretty setting, at the source of the Loire River, this is one of the region’s most beautiful villages, featuring its old fortified castle.
In a very pretty setting, at the source of the Loire River, this is one of the region’s most beautiful villages, featuring its old fortified castle.
Blesle
With its narrow streets and old houses, this village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
With its narrow streets and old houses, this village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Brioude
This sub-prefecture of Haute-Loire has a rather pretty town centre, featuring first and foremost an old and imposing Romanesque basilica.
This sub-prefecture of Haute-Loire has a rather pretty town centre, featuring first and foremost an old and imposing Romanesque basilica.
Rochebaron Castle
Perched on a rocky outcrop in the Monts du Forez, these are the remains of a medieval fortress dating from the 12th century.
Perched on a rocky outcrop in the Monts du Forez, these are the remains of a medieval fortress dating from the 12th century.
Ways of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostela
This legendary UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route connects various European cities to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond its religious significance, it has become a classic hiking trail. One of the main French routes starts in Le Puy-en-Velay.
This legendary UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route connects various European cities to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond its religious significance, it has become a classic hiking trail. One of the main French routes starts in Le Puy-en-Velay.
Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe Church
It’s an astonishing chapel perched atop a narrow volcanic pinnacle in the commune of Aiguilhe, on the outskirts of Le Puy-en-Velay.
It’s an astonishing chapel perched atop a narrow volcanic pinnacle in the commune of Aiguilhe, on the outskirts of Le Puy-en-Velay.
Lavaudieu
It is one of the villages in Haute-Loire classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It is home to a 12th-century abbey.
It is one of the villages in Haute-Loire classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It is home to a 12th-century abbey.
Le Puy en Velay
It is the prefecture of Haute-Loire with an interesting city centre. However, Le Puy is best known as the starting point for one of the four main routes of the Way of St. James.
It is the prefecture of Haute-Loire with an interesting city centre. However, Le Puy is best known as the starting point for one of the four main routes of the Way of St. James.
Monistrol-sur-Loire
This small town has a few medieval remnants, including a keep and several small châteaux.
This small town has a few medieval remnants, including a keep and several small châteaux.
Pradelles
With its buildings dating from the Middle Ages, the village is one of the "most beautiful villages in France".
With its buildings dating from the Middle Ages, the village is one of the "most beautiful villages in France".
Natural Heritage
Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park
This park spanning two regions offers beautiful landscapes, including the Monts du Forez, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing. It can also be partly explored via the Livradois-Forez tourist train.
This park spanning two regions offers beautiful landscapes, including the Monts du Forez, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing. It can also be partly explored via the Livradois-Forez tourist train.
Puy-de-Dôme (63)
Mozac Abbey
Located in the town of the same name, it is one of the most important abbeys in Auvergne.
Located in the town of the same name, it is one of the most important abbeys in Auvergne.
Orcival Basilica
This beautiful Romanesque church can be discovered in the village of Orcival, nestled in a valley.
This beautiful Romanesque church can be discovered in the village of Orcival, nestled in a valley.
Aulteribe Castle
This is a medieval castle, restored in the Romantic style in the 19th century, located in the commune of Sermentizon.
This is a medieval castle, restored in the Romantic style in the 19th century, located in the commune of Sermentizon.
Murol Castle
These are the remains of an old fortified castle perched not far from Mont-Dore, facing the Sancy Massif.
These are the remains of an old fortified castle perched not far from Mont-Dore, facing the Sancy Massif.
Clermont-Ferrand
The city has an old centre around its cathedral and a network of underground cellars.
The city has an old centre around its cathedral and a network of underground cellars.
Issoire
This sub-prefecture in Puy-de-Dôme is home to a charming Romanesque abbey church (Saint-Austremoine) and several other interesting religious buildings.
This sub-prefecture in Puy-de-Dôme is home to a charming Romanesque abbey church (Saint-Austremoine) and several other interesting religious buildings.
Le Grand Sancy
The main ski resort in the Massif Central, created by combining the ski areas of Super-Besse and Mont-Dore. It is located in the Puy de Sancy.
The main ski resort in the Massif Central, created by combining the ski areas of Super-Besse and Mont-Dore. It is located in the Puy de Sancy.
Montpeyroux
Just near Clermont, this small hilltop village dominated by its keep is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Just near Clermont, this small hilltop village dominated by its keep is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Riom
This sub-prefecture has an old town centre where you can still see beautiful houses built from volcanic stone.
This sub-prefecture has an old town centre where you can still see beautiful houses built from volcanic stone.
Saint-Floret
A stunning medieval village with pink-tiled houses, once listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
A stunning medieval village with pink-tiled houses, once listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Saint-Nectaire
Beyond the cheese that made it famous, the village is also home to one of the region’s most beautiful Romanesque churches.
Beyond the cheese that made it famous, the village is also home to one of the region’s most beautiful Romanesque churches.
Saint-Saturnin
A beautiful Romanesque church and a medieval fortress with houses clustered around them have earned this village a place among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" at one time.
A beautiful Romanesque church and a medieval fortress with houses clustered around them have earned this village a place among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" at one time.
Thiers
This town has a charming old centre, featuring many half-timbered houses, several manors, and various churches. Alongside this, Thiers also boasts a notable industrial heritage due to its cutlery industry.
This town has a charming old centre, featuring many half-timbered houses, several manors, and various churches. Alongside this, Thiers also boasts a notable industrial heritage due to its cutlery industry.
Usson
A beautiful village perched on a volcanic peak, offering a lovely panorama of the surrounding area.
A beautiful village perched on a volcanic peak, offering a lovely panorama of the surrounding area.
Fades Viaduct
This impressive railway viaduct, dating from the very beginning of the 20th century, was once the world's highest bridge.
This impressive railway viaduct, dating from the very beginning of the 20th century, was once the world's highest bridge.
Volvic
Internationally renowned for its natural water, Volvic is also home to the remains of a medieval fortress: the Château de Tournoël.
Internationally renowned for its natural water, Volvic is also home to the remains of a medieval fortress: the Château de Tournoël.
Vulcania
West of Clermont-Ferrand, in Saint-Ours, Vulcania is a mix of museum and theme park dedicated to volcanoes.
West of Clermont-Ferrand, in Saint-Ours, Vulcania is a mix of museum and theme park dedicated to volcanoes.
Natural Heritage
Banne d'Ordanche
A volcanic peak above La Bourboule that you can reach the summit of with a short walk.
A volcanic peak above La Bourboule that you can reach the summit of with a short walk.
Sioule Gorges
These are pretty gorges overlooking the Sioule River, which flows through Puy de Dôme and Allier. You can go climbing, canoeing, and admire some old medieval castles and churches along the way.
These are pretty gorges overlooking the Sioule River, which flows through Puy de Dôme and Allier. You can go climbing, canoeing, and admire some old medieval castles and churches along the way.
Lake Aydat
It is the largest lake in Auvergne. It hosts a water sports centre and is popular with anglers.
It is the largest lake in Auvergne. It hosts a water sports centre and is popular with anglers.
Lake Guéry
This high-altitude lake (the highest in Auvergne) is renowned for fishing, even in winter through the ice that covers it. There are many other lakes nearby.
This high-altitude lake (the highest in Auvergne) is renowned for fishing, even in winter through the ice that covers it. There are many other lakes nearby.
Monts Dore Massif
A charming volcanic massif with lakes and extinct volcanoes located in the Volcanoes of Auvergne Park. It’s a popular spot for hiking, skiing, or exploring the many thermal resorts in the area. It’s also home to Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central.
A charming volcanic massif with lakes and extinct volcanoes located in the Volcanoes of Auvergne Park. It’s a popular spot for hiking, skiing, or exploring the many thermal resorts in the area. It’s also home to Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central.
Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park
This park spanning two regions offers beautiful landscapes, including the Monts du Forez, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing. It can also be partly explored via the Livradois-Forez tourist train.
This park spanning two regions offers beautiful landscapes, including the Monts du Forez, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing. It can also be partly explored via the Livradois-Forez tourist train.
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless hiking opportunities. Since 2018, the "Chaîne des Puys" it encompasses has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Puy de Sancy
At 1,885 m, it is the highest peak in the Massif Central. You can hike in the surrounding area or ski at the Mont-Dore, Super-Besse, and Chastreix-Sancy resorts.
At 1,885 m, it is the highest peak in the Massif Central. You can hike in the surrounding area or ski at the Mont-Dore, Super-Besse, and Chastreix-Sancy resorts.
Haute-Vienne (87)
Châlus
This large village in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin park has the remains of two fortified castles.
This large village in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin park has the remains of two fortified castles.
Chalucet Castle
About ten kilometres south of Limoges, these are the overgrown remains of what was once one of the most important fortresses in the Limousin region.
About ten kilometres south of Limoges, these are the overgrown remains of what was once one of the most important fortresses in the Limousin region.
Coussac-Bonneval Castle
This is a charming small castle blending several architectural styles in the village of the same name.
This is a charming small castle blending several architectural styles in the village of the same name.
Château de Lastours in Limousin
Located in Rilhac-Lastours, this medieval fortress has been under restoration for some time.
Located in Rilhac-Lastours, this medieval fortress has been under restoration for some time.
Le Dorat
In the northern part of the department, Le Dorat is a large village with an impressive Romanesque collegiate church, remnants of fortifications, and a few old houses.
In the northern part of the department, Le Dorat is a large village with an impressive Romanesque collegiate church, remnants of fortifications, and a few old houses.
Limoges
The porcelain city has a centre with some beautiful buildings, including lovely half-timbered houses.
The porcelain city has a centre with some beautiful buildings, including lovely half-timbered houses.
Mortemart
This hamlet is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." You can see a small 15th-century château, two convents, a beautiful covered market, and several historic bourgeois residences.
This hamlet is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." You can see a small 15th-century château, two convents, a beautiful covered market, and several historic bourgeois residences.
Oradour-sur-Glane
The ruins of this martyred village, which was destroyed and its population massacred on 10 June 1944 by Nazi troops.
The ruins of this martyred village, which was destroyed and its population massacred on 10 June 1944 by Nazi troops.
Rochechouart
This sub-prefecture features a beautiful church and a charming château that partly serves as a contemporary art museum.
This sub-prefecture features a beautiful church and a charming château that partly serves as a contemporary art museum.
Richard the Lionheart Route
A tourist itinerary, primarily in Haute-Vienne, covering 200 kilometres and 23 sites (castles, medieval towns, monuments...) more or less linked to this historical figure or his era (in a somewhat broad sense).
A tourist itinerary, primarily in Haute-Vienne, covering 200 kilometres and 23 sites (castles, medieval towns, monuments...) more or less linked to this historical figure or his era (in a somewhat broad sense).
Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat
The small town has, in addition to a few old buildings, a Romanesque collegiate church dating from the Middle Ages, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Way of Saint James.
The small town has, in addition to a few old buildings, a Romanesque collegiate church dating from the Middle Ages, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Way of Saint James.
Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche
South of Limoges, you can explore its old quarters stretching along narrow streets.
South of Limoges, you can explore its old quarters stretching along narrow streets.
Natural Heritage
Lake Saint-Pardoux
North of Limoges, this artificial lake offers various water activities such as canoeing.
North of Limoges, this artificial lake offers various water activities such as canoeing.
Lake Vassivière
Straddling Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Millevaches Park, this is a major local tourism spot for swimming, water activities, and short hikes. In the middle of this artificial lake, an island houses a contemporary art centre.
Straddling Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Millevaches Park, this is a major local tourism spot for swimming, water activities, and short hikes. In the middle of this artificial lake, an island houses a contemporary art centre.
Reynou Park
In Le Vigen, on the outskirts of Limoges, this is a zoological and landscaped park built around a château. It is the second most visited site in the department.
In Le Vigen, on the outskirts of Limoges, this is a zoological and landscaped park built around a château. It is the second most visited site in the department.
Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here (especially around Vassivière). It’s also home to the region’s three cross-country ski resorts (Bonnefond, Gentioux, Saint-Setiers).
Périgord-Limousin Regional Nature Park
This is a vast area of hedgerows and forests shared by the Haute-Vienne and Dordogne departments.
This is a vast area of hedgerows and forests shared by the Haute-Vienne and Dordogne departments.
Must-see & highly recommended
Collonges-la-Rouge
★★★★ A stunning small village ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It owes its name to the use of red sandstone in its…
Cantal Mountains
★★★★ A very pretty, sparsely populated region with numerous valleys connected by passes and extinct volcanoes (the puys: Mary, Griou, etc.)…
Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park
★★★★ France’s largest regional park offers stunning landscapes, lakes, charming villages, a few ski resorts, and above all, countless…
Recommended
Ways of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostela
★★★ This legendary UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route connects various European cities to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond its religious…
Monts Dore Massif
★★★ A charming volcanic massif with lakes and extinct volcanoes located in the Volcanoes of Auvergne Park. It’s a popular spot for…
Oradour-sur-Glane
★★★ The ruins of this martyred village, which was destroyed and its population massacred on 10 June 1944 by Nazi troops.
Puy Mary (Plomb du Cantal)
★★★ This is the second-highest peak in the Massif Central (1,855 m). You can reach it on foot or by cable car.
Puy de Sancy
★★★ At 1,885 m, it is the highest peak in the Massif Central. You can hike in the surrounding area or ski at the Mont-Dore, Super-Besse, and…
Puy Mary
★★★ One of the best-known and most visited "puys" in Auvergne. It's also a classic hiking destination.
Worth a look / Other
La Chaise-Dieu Abbey
★★ This is one of the best-known Benedictine abbeys in Auvergne and its main Gothic structure.
Arlempdes
★★ In a very pretty setting, at the source of the Loire River, this is one of the region’s most beautiful villages, featuring its old…
Banne d'Ordanche
★★ A volcanic peak above La Bourboule that you can reach the summit of with a short walk.
Blesle
★★ With its narrow streets and old houses, this village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Jarrauds Waterfall
★★ In the south of the department, in Saint-Martin Château, this is one of the main waterfalls you can discover on foot via the "GR trail of…
Alleuze Castle
★★ These are the remains of a medieval hilltop fortress with a rather pretty setting in the village of the same name.
Chalucet Castle
★★ About ten kilometres south of Limoges, these are the overgrown remains of what was once one of the most important fortresses in the…
Château de Chazeron
★★ In Loubeyrat, a medieval château later expanded in the style of Versailles.
Coussac-Bonneval Castle
★★ This is a charming small castle blending several architectural styles in the village of the same name.
Crozant Castle
★★ These are the remains of a medieval fortress perched above a river’s meanders. The site offers a very beautiful panorama.
La Palice Castle
★★ In the town of Lapalisse, a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this castle, enhanced by beautiful gardens.
Murol Castle
★★ These are the remains of an old fortified castle perched not far from Mont-Dore, facing the Sancy Massif.
Pesteils Castle
★★ With its grounds, this is a charming castle-museum—and one of the most beautiful in the region—located in Polminhac.
Val Castle
★★ This beautiful fortified castle sits on the edge of an (artificial) lake, giving it a certain charm. Though located in the Cantal…
Tours de Merle Castle
★★ These are the vegetation-covered ruins of a medieval fortress located in Saint-Geniez ô Merle. The setting is what makes the site…
Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe Church
★★ It’s an astonishing chapel perched atop a narrow volcanic pinnacle in the commune of Aiguilhe, on the outskirts of Le Puy-en-Velay.
Gimel-les-Cascades
★★ Although primarily known for its surrounding waterfalls, the village also boasts a beautiful architectural ensemble, including the remains…
Sioule Gorges
★★ These are pretty gorges overlooking the Sioule River, which flows through Puy de Dôme and Allier. You can go climbing, canoeing, and admire…
Vézère Gorge
★★ This river, which rises in Corrèze before flowing on to the Dordogne, offers rafting and canoeing opportunities, particularly around…
La Sauvetat
★★ South of Clermont-Ferrand, this village is made up of a medieval fortified complex.
Lake Guéry
★★ This high-altitude lake (the highest in Auvergne) is renowned for fishing, even in winter through the ice that covers it. There are many…
Lake Vassivière
★★ Straddling Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Millevaches Park, this is a major local tourism spot for swimming, water activities, and short…
Lavaudieu
★★ It is one of the villages in Haute-Loire classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". It is home to a 12th-century abbey.
Grand Sancy
★★ The main ski resort in the Massif Central, created by combining the ski areas of Super-Besse and Mont-Dore. It is located in the Puy de…
Le Puy-en-Velay
★★ It is the prefecture of Haute-Loire with an interesting city centre. However, Le Puy is best known as the starting point for one of the…
Limoges
★★ The porcelain city has a centre with some beautiful buildings, including lovely half-timbered houses.
Montpeyroux
★★ Just near Clermont, this small hilltop village dominated by its keep is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Mortemart
★★ This hamlet is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." You can see a small 15th-century château, two convents, a beautiful covered…
Moulins
★★ The prefecture of Allier has a rather pretty town centre, predominantly medieval and Renaissance in style, with many half-timbered houses…
Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin
★★ Spanning three departments, this is an area of meadows, peat bogs, and forests. You can hike or enjoy various outdoor sports here…
Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park
★★ This park spanning two regions offers beautiful landscapes, including the Monts du Forez, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing…
Périgord-Limousin Regional Nature Park
★★ This is a vast area of hedgerows and forests shared by the Haute-Vienne and Dordogne departments.
Pradelles
★★ With its buildings dating from the Middle Ages, the village is one of the "most beautiful villages in France".
Puy Griou
★★ An ancient volcano in the Cantal mountains that you can hike to.
Richard the Lionheart Route
★★ A tourist itinerary, primarily in Haute-Vienne, covering 200 kilometres and 23 sites (castles, medieval towns, monuments...) more or less…
Saint-Floret
★★ A stunning medieval village with pink-tiled houses, once listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Saint-Flour
★★ This sub-prefecture has a charming hilltop old town with ramparts and a 15th-century cathedral.
Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat
★★ The small town has, in addition to a few old buildings, a Romanesque collegiate church dating from the Middle Ages, classified as a UNESCO…
Saint-Robert (19)
★★ One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its old houses, small châteaux, and its 12th-century church.
Salers
★★ Beyond being known for the cattle breed that bears its name, this commune is also labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France" for its…
Ségur-le-Château
★★ Built along a river, Ségur is one of the many communes in the region awarded the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" label, thanks in…
Thiers
★★ This town has a charming old centre, featuring many half-timbered houses, several manors, and various churches. Alongside this, Thiers also…
Tournemire (15)
★★ With its castle, 12th-century church, and old houses, the village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Turenne
★★ This hilltop village is listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its old houses built around its castle.
Vulcania
★★ West of Clermont-Ferrand, in Saint-Ours, Vulcania is a mix of museum and theme park dedicated to volcanoes.
Aubazine Abbey
★ A 12th-century Cistercian abbey located in the commune of the same name.
Moutier-d'Ahun Abbey
★ This is a 10th-century abbey located between Guéret and Aubusson.
Mozac Abbey
★ Located in the town of the same name, it is one of the most important abbeys in Auvergne.
Allassac
★ A small town with several historic monuments (bridge, churches, tower, manors).
Aubusson
★ The town, known for its tapestries, also has a few old quarters.
Aurillac
★ It is the capital of the Cantal department. It has several monuments of historical value.
Orcival Basilica
★ This beautiful Romanesque church can be discovered in the village of Orcival, nestled in a valley.
Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
★ Built on the banks of the Dordogne, this village has a castle and a 9th-century abbey church.
Bellac
★ A departmental sub-prefecture, the town has a few old civil and religious buildings.
Brioude
★ This sub-prefecture of Haute-Loire has a rather pretty town centre, featuring first and foremost an old and imposing Romanesque basilica.
Brive
★ The largest city in the Corrèze department and the second-largest in the Limousin region.
Châlus
★ This large village in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin park has the remains of two fortified castles.
Chambon-sur-Voueize
★ A small town with an old bridge, a former monastery, and above all the Sainte-Valérie abbey church, one of the main Romanesque churches in…
Charroux
★ Thanks in particular to its old half-timbered houses, Charroux is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Aulteribe Castle
★ This is a medieval castle, restored in the Romantic style in the 19th century, located in the commune of Sermentizon.
Auzers Castle
★ This castle, built between 1470 and 1510, is highly characteristic of the architecture of Haute Auvergne in the region.
Boussac Castle
★ A large 15th-century castle by the river in the town of the same name.
Château de Chareil-Cintrat
★ A 16th-century Renaissance château listed as a historic monument.
Conros Castle
★ This is a large medieval castle dating from the 13th century, located in Arpajon-sur-Cère.
La Trémolière Castle
★ La Trémolière is a 15th-century castle-museum in Anglards-de-Salers.
La Vigne Castle
★ This is a medieval castle located in Ally. Built facing a beautiful panorama, it consists of living quarters and towers, with the whole…
Château de Lastours in Limousin
★ Located in Rilhac-Lastours, this medieval fortress has been under restoration for some time.
Rochebaron Castle
★ Perched on a rocky outcrop in the Monts du Forez, these are the remains of a medieval fortress dating from the 12th century.
Sédières Castle
★ In the commune of Clergoux. It is a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by ponds and forests where you can hike.
Villemonteix Castle
★ This is a 15th-century castle located in the commune of Saint-Pardoux-les-Cards.
Villeneuve-Lembron Castle
★ A fine 15th-century seigneurial residence.
Clermont-Ferrand
★ The city has an old centre around its cathedral and a network of underground cellars.
Curemonte
★ With its three churches and three castles perched on a ridge overlooking the surrounding valleys, it is one of the "most beautiful villages…
Donzenac
★ Built on a hillside, the commune has preserved some traces of its medieval past.
Gouffre de la Fage
★ This is a cave open to the public near Brive.
Guéret
★ It's the prefecture of Creuse and a city that isn't necessarily one of the most tourist-oriented.
Issoire
★ This sub-prefecture in Puy-de-Dôme is home to a charming Romanesque abbey church (Saint-Austremoine) and several other interesting…
La Bourboule
★ A small family-friendly spa town in the heart of the Mont-Dore massif.
La Souterraine
★ This small town has preserved a few remnants of its past, such as the remains of its ramparts and its Romanesque collegiate church built in…
Lake Aydat
★ It is the largest lake in Auvergne. It hosts a water sports centre and is popular with anglers.
Lake Saint-Pardoux
★ North of Limoges, this artificial lake offers various water activities such as canoeing.
Lake Bouchet
★ A circular volcanic lake near Le Puy-en-Velay.
Le Dorat
★ In the northern part of the department, Le Dorat is a large village with an impressive Romanesque collegiate church, remnants of…
Lioran
★ Lioran is the largest ski area in the entire Massif Central.
Marcolès
★ Marcolès is a charming medieval village in southern Cantal. It is part of the "Petites Cités de Caractère" network.
Meymac
★ A gateway to the Millevaches, the town also features a few interesting historic buildings, such as its abbey, market hall, and belfry.
Monistrol-sur-Loire
★ This small town has a few medieval remnants, including a keep and several small châteaux.
Montluçon
★ The largest municipality in the Allier department has old quarters and a certain religious heritage.
Reynou Park
★ In Le Vigen, on the outskirts of Limoges, this is a zoological and landscaped park built around a château. It is the second most visited…
Jaumâtres Rocks
★ A cluster of large granite boulders located in Toulx-Sainte-Croix, in the northern part of the Creuse department.
Souvigny Priory
★ A very beautiful priory located in the commune of Souvigny, not far from Moulins.
Landes Pond Nature Reserve
★ East of Guéret, this protected natural area is ideal for birdwatching.
Riom
★ This sub-prefecture has an old town centre where you can still see beautiful houses built from volcanic stone.
Rochechouart
★ This sub-prefecture features a beautiful church and a charming château that partly serves as a contemporary art museum.
Gallo-Roman Ruins of Les Cars
★ Fairly isolated in the heart of the Millevaches, the site consists of a funerary complex and a villa dating from the 2nd century AD.
Saint-Junien
★ A town of just over 11,000 inhabitants with significant religious heritage.
Saint-Nectaire
★ Beyond the cheese that made it famous, the village is also home to one of the region’s most beautiful Romanesque churches.
Saint-Saturnin
★ A beautiful Romanesque church and a medieval fortress with houses clustered around them have earned this village a place among the "Most…
Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche
★ South of Limoges, you can explore its old quarters stretching along narrow streets.
Solignac
★ You can see a beautiful Romanesque church and an abbey in this commune near Limoges.
Longéroux Bog
★ A vast bog on the Millevaches plateau at 900 m altitude. Educational trails have been set up here.
Treignac
★ A commune featuring a beautiful covered market, three churches or chapels, and several old houses.
Tulle
★ The prefecture of Corrèze offers a cathedral and a few old quarters for visitors.
Ussel
★ This sub-prefecture, the third-largest town in the department, has a few old quarters.
Usson
★ A beautiful village perched on a volcanic peak, offering a lovely panorama of the surrounding area.
Uzerche
★ The small town boasts several large and beautiful historic houses in its centre.
Garabit Viaduct
★ An impressive railway viaduct with a metal structure built by Gustave Eiffel in the late 19th century. It spans the Truyère Gorge.
Fades Viaduct
★ This impressive railway viaduct, dating from the very beginning of the 20th century, was once the world's highest bridge.
Vichy
★ It is one of the main cities in Auvergne and, above all, a spa town.
Volvic
★ Internationally renowned for its natural water, Volvic is also home to the remains of a medieval fortress: the Château de Tournoël.