GR® 441 : Le tour des volcans d’Auvergne

Departing from Volvic in the north, passing Vulcania and the summit of the Puy de Dôme, we will discover the sumptuous landscapes formed by these craters, which look as if they are still active.

This is a landscape that is thousands of years old. It is, however, the youngest volcanic area in Auvergne. This itinerary takes in 80 volcanoes with different characteristics and distinct crater shapes (circular, egulated, nested).

We can also admire a maar, a volcanic lake (Lac de Servières) created by the dynamic encounter between a column of lava and water. The route also shares know-how, history and artistic talent.

The ‘blue gold of volcanoes’, witness to the radiant springs, is explained to us at the Maison de la Pierre and at the Volvic springs. More than a dozen natural mineral waters are tapped and bottled in the département. This heritage perfectly describes the world of quarrymen, sculptors and lava enamellers. Trachyandesite is omnipresent along the route. It has been used since the 13th century in major structures (Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral) or for more artistic purposes (the works of Thierry Courtadon dot the landscape).

Finally, the historic past is represented by the Temple of Mercury, the largest mountain sanctuary in Roman Gaul (2nd century), and the Basilica of Orcival, a landmark of Romanesque art.