Family holiday cottage with a garden in Mont-Dore — 300 metres from the thermal baths and with slopes nearby

1. Climbing and hiking to the summit of the Auvergne Rising to 1,886 metres, the Puy de Sancy is the highest point in the Massif Central. It is a hiker’s paradise thanks to its exceptional network of trails. • Hiking: Follow the signposted paths or the wooden steps from the top of the cable car to reach the summit cairn and admire a unique 360° panorama. • Multi-day hikes: Experienced walkers will enjoy the Sancy loop, which takes you around the volcanic ridges over several days. 2. Winter sports and thrills The Sancy massif comes alive all year round thanks to the mountain resorts of Super and Mont-Dore, ideal for an adrenaline rush. • Winter sports: Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and toboggan runs welcome families as soon as the first snow falls. • Summer thrills: Try the giant Fantasticable zip line in Super-Besse to soar over the resort at over 100 km/h, or whizz down the Super Coaster toboggan run. 3. Exploring the volcanic lakes of Sancy Water is everywhere in Auvergne, offering magnificent spots for swimming and contemplative walks. • Mysterious crater lake: Lac Pavin is an almost perfectly circular lake formed in an ancient volcanic crater, ideal for a shaded walk or a spot of fishing. • Water activities: Lac Chambon offers beaches equipped for swimming in summer, pedalos, kayaking and a flat path perfect for pushchairs. 4. A journey through history and well-being The region harmoniously blends medieval history with traditions of wellbeing dating back to Gallo-Roman times. • A medieval experience: Visit the spectacular Château de Murol, a restored fortress which hosts historical re-enactments and jousting displays. • Thermal baths and relaxation: Pamper yourself at the legendary Thermes du Mont Dore, renowned for their magnificent Neo-Byzantine architecture and wellness treatments. 5. Exploring the Chaîne des Puys (Northern Puy-de-Dôme) A little further north, the iconic chain of volcanoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers spectacular experiences. • The giant of the domes: Climb to the summit of the Puy de Dôme (via the Chemin des Muletiers) or take the rack railway (the Panoramique des Dômes) to admire the view over the 80 dormant volcanoes. • Science theme park: Spend a family day out at Vulcania, a theme park unique in the world, carved out of volcanic rock, where you can learn all about geology and the universe in a fun way. 6. Clermont-Ferrand: a city break with a volcanic twist, just 45 minutes from the gîte • The historic centre built of black stone: stroll through the medieval alleyways, admire the Gothic cathedral built of lava stone and visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Port (UNESCO). • Local life on the Place de Jaude: enjoy a drink on this large, lively square, at the foot of the famous statue of Vercingétorix. • L’Aventure Michelin: a fun and highly interactive 2,000 m² exhibition dedicated to the brand’s history and its famous Bibendum (very popular with families). • Museums and culture: explore the Roger-Quilliot Art Museum (MARQ), the Hôtel Fontfreyde (contemporary photography), or the Henri-Lecoq Museum, which houses authentic calculating machines invented by Blaise Pascal. • Volcanic relaxation: unwind in the hot thermal pools at Royatonic, just on the outskirts of the town.