Top 5 hikes in the Pays d’Issoire     

Do you like to combine sport and discovery? In the Pays d’Issoire, it is possible! For this, we have chosen for you 5 of the must-do hikes in the Pays d’Issoire.

Between valleys, mountains and atypical environments, your eyes will be amazed and your calves will thank you!

1) The Valley of the Saints

This site, labelled “Sensitive Natural Area “, will allow you to discover remarkable geological formations: fairy chimneys, circuses and multicoloured cliffs. A meridional atmosphere emerges from this place where pines grow on sandy soil. In the surrounding area, vines are omnipresent and produce one of the best wines in Auvergne, the “Côte d’Auvergne Boudes”.

From a distance of less than 6km, this hike will allow you to see an exceptional fauna and flora adapted to this environment, with 37 species of birds and 17 species of orchids. The walk will delight young and old alike thanks to its beauty and easy access.

2) Jassy

In an environment worthy of the Scottish highlands, this 14km hike will take you on a peaceful journey to discover the lakes of La Godivelle and Roche-Orcine, which are breathtakingly beautiful.

You can also enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the Sancy River from the highest points of the circuit. The salers cows with their mahogany colour, typical of the Cézallier mountains, will accompany you all along the route.

 3) The caves of Perrier

During this 11km hike, you will walk on the Pardines plateau, where you can see the village’s heart-shaped pond and enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the Sancy river.

You will also discover the caves of Perrier, which have been used as a residence throughout history, and which have more recently been used as wine cellars. The fairy chimneys make this site one of the most beautiful and intriguing in Auvergne.

 4) On the path of arkose

Starting from Montpeyroux, one of the most beautiful villages in France, this 2 hours and a half hike will take you on a journey in the footsteps of the local stone. Along the way, and overlooking the Allier, you can enjoy the views of the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy, as well as the pailhats landscapes, but you can also admire the architecture of the old winegrowing villages.

5) Saint-Jean-Saint-Gervais

This 16km hike, recommended for regular hikers, will take you to the land of basalt columns. You can enjoy many views of the mining area, which is still full of history.

Do you want more? Discover all the hikes in the Pays d’Issoire by clicking here!