Things to see and do in Auvergne: Puy Mary or Puy de Sancy?

Are you planning to visit the Auvergne, famous for its volcanoes? If you want to discover one of France's best-kept secrets, let us introduce you to two of the Auvergne's iconic peaks: Puy de Sancy and Puy Mary! Which one should you visit? Both, my captain!

Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central

Imagine yourself on the heights of the Massif Central, perched at an altitude of 1886 m. Does it make you dizzy? Well, that's the feeling you'll get at the summit of Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central. But it's not just a mountain, it's an ancient volcano!
The history of the Massif du Sancy dates back five million years, when the first eruptions began to shape this spectacular landscape. It took around 250,000 years for this masterpiece of nature to take shape. It is a rather special type of volcano, known as a strato-volcano. Imagine several volcanoes stacked on top of each other, like Russian dolls, spewing lava of different compositions and appearances. That's why the landscapes around the Puy de Sancy are so varied.

Now, how do you get there?

Don't panic, there are several ways to climb to the summit. If you want to take it easy, you can take the Sancy cable car. All you have to do is climb 864 steps up a wooden staircase, and you'll be at the summit in just 20 minutes! Alternatively, if you're feeling adventurous, there's a 3h30 return hike from the foot of the Puy de Sancy. And if you're really motivated, why not opt for a longer hike via the crests? But don't forget to pack your walking shoes, as it's likely to be a bit more sporty!

Puy Mary, awarded the Grand Site de France label

Now let's turn our attention to another jewel of the Massif Central, Puy Mary. Imagine yourself in the heart of Europe's largest volcano, the Massif Cantalien. Doesn't that have a nice ring to it? Well, Puy Mary is right there, in the middle of it all, with its 2,700 km2 of volcanic splendour. Unlike the Puy de Dôme chain, which resembles a string of volcanic pearls (nearly 80 small volcanoes!), Puy Mary forms a single volcano, millions of years old, covering nearly 8,500 hectares.
This volcano is so old that it has been dormant for ages. But that doesn't stop it from being absolutely magnificent! Reshaped over the millennia by glaciers and water, sculpted by time, it is a true testimony to the tumultuous history of our planet that is offered to the visitor. And what makes the emblematic Puy Mary pyramid even more special is the purity and grandeur it exudes. You immediately feel this energy as you walk along the paths and contemplate the landscapes that surround you.

How do I get to Puy Mary?

To reach the summit of Puy Mary, you must first go to the Pas de Peyrol road pass. From there, a path leads you straight (or almost straight) to the summit. The result is a 360° view of the Cantal volcano and the puys chain. There is a charge for parking at Pas de Peyrol (July-August). It costs €4. Summer shuttle buses run between the site houses (Dienne, Le Claux, Le Falgoux, Mandailles-Saint-Julien, Pas de Peyrol).

Camping accommodation for a stay in Auvergne

So, are you ready for an adventure in the heights of the Massif Central? Whether you choose the Puy de Sancy or the Puy Mary, one thing's for sure: you'll never forget this spellbinding experience in the heart of the Auvergne. Immerse yourself in the adventure and book your stay at Camping du Lac de Menet in the Cantal region of Auvergne now!
Whether you prefer a cosy chalet or a picturesque campsite pitch, we have everything you need for an unforgettable getaway. Wake up in the heart of nature, breathe in the fresh mountain air and let yourself be seduced by the beauty of our beautiful region. Don't miss this unique opportunity, book now and get ready to experience magical moments at Camping du Lac de Menet!