AUVERGNE
The region of Auvergne consists of the departments of Allier (03), Cantal (15), Haute-Loire (43) and Puy-de-Dome (63). Clermont-Ferrand, situated at the foot of the Puys range, is the capital. It is a vibrant university and cultural town.
03 - Allier - Population: 358 000. Principal City: Moulins. Other main towns/villages : Bellerive-sur-Allier, Brout Vernet, Busset, Commentry, Cosne D Allier, Cusset , Domerat , Gannat, Lapalisse, Montlucon, Montmarault, Moulins, Neris Les Bains, Saint Pourcain Sur Sioule, Vallon En Sully, Varennes Sur Allier, Vichy.
15 - Cantal - Population: 159 000. Principal City: Aurillac. Other main towns/villages : Aurillac, Mauriac, Maurs, Riom Les Montagnes, St Flour.
43 - Haute-Loire - Population: 207 000. Principal City: Le Puy-en-Velay. Other main towns/villages : Brioude, Le Puy-en-Velay, Yssingeaux.
63 - Puy-de-Dôme - Population: 599 000. Principal City: Clermont-Ferrand. Other main towns/villages : Ambert, Arlanc, Besse, Et Saint Anastaise, Billom, Brassac Les Mines, Chamalières, Châtel Guyon, Clermont-Ferrand, Cournon, D Auvergne, Issoire, La Bourboule, Le Mont Dore, Marsat ,Pont De Dore, Pont Du Château, Riom, Romagnat, Super Besse, Thiers ,Veyre Monton.
Although one of the least known areas of France and certainly one of the poorest the Auvergne does not lack natural phenomena and beauty. With its volcanic masses the Auvergne is unique in its character and rather wild – this feeling influenced by the stunningly dramatic scenery. The volcanic landscape with massive volcanic craters , dramatic gorges, lakes, waterfalls, forest land, verdant mountains and vast plateaux all do their bit in contributing to this wildness.
Situated only 3 hours from Paris in the centre of France in the heart of the mountainous region of the Massif Central and bordered by the Limousin to the west, Rhone Alpes to the east and Bourgogne and Pays de Loire to the north. It is also on one of the main routes of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage its starting point being at Le Puy (the capital of the Haute Loire).
Most of the industry in the area apart from tourism is agriculture. There are many rural farming villages . Wheat, cattle to the north of the region and lentils. Cantal cheese is another well known product.
Thermal springs abound with the hottest spring water in Europe being found in a thermal spring in Cantal (also famous for its cheese). Today the Spa towns have found new popularity, the most famous being Vichy which is situated on the banks of the Allier. This town has retained much of the charm and elegance of an earlier era and first fashionable in the 20s.
Leisure activities relating to water sports, cycling, mountain biking, hiking and trekking, climbing, golf, skiing and cross country skiing are extremely popular given the geographical nature of the area. It also enjoys varied and vast flora, fauna and wildlife. In terms of leisure activities the choice is endless… Its unspoilt nature makes it the ideal choice as a destination for nature lovers.
At one time inaccessible by its remote situation it is today easy to get to thanks to improved roads, rail and air connections which has opened up new opportunities for home owners. Prices in this area are still relatively inexpensive compared to other areas of France.
DEPTS IN REGION
These departments are in this region, click on the department name to explore.
Haute Loire
Puy-de-Dome
Allier
Cantal