3 day itinerary for Puy De Dome

Itinerary

Puy de Dome is a beautiful region in France with stunning landscapes and charming villages. Since you prefer a relaxed pace, I've crafted an itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of the area without feeling rushed.

Day 1:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Clermont-Ferrand, the capital of Puy de Dome. Take a stroll through the historic city center and admire the unique architecture, including the iconic black volcanic stone buildings.

After exploring the city, head to the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne. Enjoy a peaceful hike through the lush greenery and take in the panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. You can also visit the Vulcania theme park to learn more about the region's volcanic history in a fun and interactive way.

In the evening, return to Clermont-Ferrand for a relaxing dinner at a traditional Auvergne restaurant, where you can savor local specialties like truffade or potée auvergnate.

Day 2:

Today, venture out to the picturesque village of Orcival, known for its stunning Romanesque basilica. Take your time exploring the village, wandering through its narrow streets lined with charming stone houses.

After visiting Orcival, drive to the Lac Pavin, a beautiful crater lake surrounded by lush forests. Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake or take a leisurely boat ride to soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

In the afternoon, head to the Château de Murol, a medieval castle perched on a hill overlooking the village of Murol. Explore the castle at your own pace and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 3:

On your final day, start with a visit to the Puy de Dome itself, the iconic volcanic peak that gives the region its name. You can either hike to the summit for a rewarding panoramic view or take the train for a more relaxed experience.

After enjoying the views from Puy de Dome, make your way to the charming village of Saint-Nectaire, famous for its delicious cheese. Visit a local fromagerie to learn about the cheese-making process and sample some of the region's best cheeses.

In the afternoon, unwind with a leisurely drive through the scenic countryside, stopping at quaint villages along the way to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps pick up some souvenirs to remember your trip by.

I hope this itinerary gives you a good balance of relaxation and exploration during your 3 days in Puy de Dome. Enjoy your trip!