Audio Guide of Chaîne des Puys

The Chaîne des Puys is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is an open-air natural site, although visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety. You can reach it by car via the A89 from Clermont-Ferrand, about 20 km away, with free parking at several points such as Puy Pariou; there are also regional buses from the city. For more details, visit the official Auvergne tourism website or call +33 4 73 42 62 00.

Visiting the Chaîne des Puys is completely free, as it is a protected natural park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No tickets are required, but if you plan to go up nearby Puy de Dôme, there is a fee of about €10–12 for the rack railway. Check for updates on the Puy de Dôme website.

It is recommended to allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the main volcanoes such as Puy de Lassolas or Pariou via easy trails. If you include Puy de Dôme, the total visit may extend to 4–5 hours. Plan according to your pace so you can enjoy it without rushing.

The Chaîne des Puys is a chain of around 80 inactive volcanoes formed between 10,000 and 100,000 years ago, representing an exceptional example of recent volcanism in continental Europe. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, it stands out for its geological value and its role in understanding the Earth's evolution. It is a key site for scientific education and nature tourism in Auvergne.

The best time is spring, from April to June, or autumn, from September to October, for mild weather and fewer crowds, while avoiding the summer heat. Choose early morning for clearer views and less wind, especially if you are climbing the craters. Check the weather forecast on Météo France before you go.

Some trails, such as the one at Puy de la Vache, are wheelchair accessible thanks to paved paths, but many volcanoes require moderate walks over uneven ground. Puy de Dôme offers a rack railway adapted for reduced mobility. For specific information, contact the tourist office at +33 4 73 98 65 00 or visit Auvergne Tourisme.

Nearby you will find Puy de Dôme, with its Roman temple and panoramic views, just 10 km away; also Vulcania, a theme park focused on geology, about 15 minutes by car. Do not miss Clermont-Ferrand, with its Gothic cathedral, around 20 km away. Explore more on the Clermont Auvergne Tourisme website.

Bring comfortable shoes, water, and sunscreen, as the trails can be dusty and exposed to the sun; download offline route maps in the official app. Avoid rainy days because the ground can be slippery, and consider a guide to learn more about the geology. For guided tour bookings, visit Volcans Auvergne.