Self-guided · Auvergne, France
Dormant volcanoes,
glacial valleys,
and crater lakes.
A week-long circuit through the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park. Summit the highest peak of the Massif Central, wander through medieval stone villages, and rest beside deep blue crater lakes.
- Days
- 7
- Distance
- 85 km
- Ascent
- 3,500 m
- Grade
- Moderate
Trip Essentials
The walk
Around the roof of
the Massif Central.
The Puy de Sancy, standing at 1,886 metres, is the highest point in central France—a dramatic volcanic peak that commands three distinct valleys: the Dordogne, the Chaudefour, and the Fontaine Salée. This seven-day circuit is a deep dive into a landscape shaped by ancient fire and ice, where volcanic domes (puys) meet deep glacial cirques.
Starting and ending in the historic spa town of Le Mont-Dore, the route takes you across high-altitude plateaus where chamois and marmots are frequently spotted. You'll climb to jagged ridges for panoramas that stretch across the Auvergne, then descend into lush valleys to discover medieval towns like Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise and the tranquil shores of Lake Chambon.
This 'comfort' version of the Tour of Sancy ensures a warm welcome at the end of every day. You'll stay in hand-picked 2* and 3* hotels with half-board meals included, and your luggage is whisked ahead of you, leaving you free to focus on the vast horizons and the silent, sleeping giants of the Auvergne.
The route, day by day.
A fixed self-guided package: every stage, every night's accommodation and every luggage transfer is arranged before you set off.
- 01
Arrival in Le Mont-Dore
-Arrive in the historic spa town of Le Mont-Dore in the late afternoon. Nestled in a valley at the foot of the Sancy massif, the town is famous for its thermal springs and Belle Époque architecture. Settle into your hotel before your first dinner of Auvergne specialties.
- 02
The High Plateaus of Mont-Dore
4-6 h · +610/850 m / −610/850 m · 12-15 kmA choice of two loops to start your journey. You can head for the Puy Gros plateau for views over the Dordogne valley, or take the 'Waterfalls Circuit,' passing three distinct cascades before reaching the ridges of the Puy de l’Angle at 1,738 m. Return to Le Mont-Dore for the night.
- 03
Le Mont-Dore → Lac Chambon
6 h · +810 m / −1020 m · 16 kmClimb towards the Durbise plateau, where sheep graze throughout the summer. Follow the ridgeline to the Puy des Crebasses (1,762 m) for spectacular views down into the Chaudefour glacial cirque. The trail then descends through forests to the peaceful shores of Lake Chambon.
- 04
Volcanoes and Castles
3-4 h · +270 m / −270 m · 10 kmA gentler day around Lac Chambon. You can hike to the Tartaret volcano and the dramatic Murol Castle, a 12th-century fortress commanding the valley. Alternatively, explore the Roche Romaine sector, rich in unique geological formations and wide views over the Adventif massif.
- 05
Lac Chambon → Besse
5 h · +500 m / −300 m · 15 kmLeave the lake and climb through the ancient forests of Courbanges. The trail crosses the Dourbise mountain before descending into the beautiful medieval town of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, built from dark volcanic stone and full of history.
- 06
The Craters of Besse
3-5 h · +400 m / −400 m · 12 kmAnother day of choices. The highlight is the loop to Lac Pavin, France's youngest volcanic crater lake and its deepest (92 m). Walk the perimeter of this near-perfect circle before climbing the Puy de Monchal for a final look at the crater from above.
- 07
Besse → Le Mont-Dore
6 h · +950 m / −650 m · 16 kmThe grand finale. Climb from the ski resort of Super-Besse across the 'Plaine des Moutons' to reach the summit of Puy de Sancy (1,886 m). After taking in the 360-degree panorama, descend via the Val de Courre—a prime spot for wildlife—back to Le Mont-Dore.
Where you'll stay
A good bed at the end of every day.
Comfort is the priority on this circuit. You'll stay in a mix of 2* and 3* hotels, all offering private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Half-board is included throughout, meaning a hearty breakfast and a three-course dinner featuring local Auvergne cuisine are waiting for you at each stop.
Getting there
The tour starts and ends in Le Mont-Dore. The town is accessible by train from Clermont-Ferrand (via TER bus or train). Clermont-Ferrand is well-connected to Paris by Intercités trains. If you are driving, there is public parking available in Le Mont-Dore for the week.
What's included?
A fixed self-guided package — accommodation, luggage transfer and route notes all taken care of before you arrive.
Six nights half-board in 2* and 3* hotels, twin share
Daily luggage transfer between hotels
Detailed route notes and IGN top 25 maps (one set per group)
Tourist taxes and organizational costs
Full planning and support from our team
Not included
- Picnic lunches (can be ordered at your hotel each evening)
- Travel to and from Le Mont-Dore
- Personal expenses, drinks, and souvenirs
- Travel and cancellation insurance
- Guiding (this is a self-guided tour)
Book your Tour of Sancy — 7 days (comfort) adventure.
- Free cancellation to 60 days
- Confirmation within 24 hrs
- ABTOT financially protected
We'll start planning your trip right away. Not happy with anything? We'll adjust it or refund you — no questions asked.
The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Big Trail Adventures (member 5690). Protection is provided for non-flight packages. Full details in our booking conditions.
Things walkers ask us.
How difficult is the walking?
This is a Level 3 out of 4 tour. You should be comfortable walking 5-6 hours a day with up to 950 metres of ascent. The terrain is mostly clear mountain paths and ridges, with no technical climbing or exposure required.
Can I do this solo?
Yes, solo departures are possible with a single supplement to cover the costs of the private rooms and luggage transfers. Get in touch for a custom quote.
What is the best time to go?
The season runs from May to mid-October. May and June offer beautiful wildflowers and remaining snow patches on the high peaks, while September and October provide stable weather and stunning autumnal colours in the forests.
Do I need to carry a heavy pack?
No—luggage transfer is included. You only need a daypack with your water, lunch, waterproofs, and camera. Your main bag (up to 10kg) will be waiting for you at your hotel each evening.