Auvergne and Cantal

The mountain areas of the French Auvergne in the Massif Central were created in the Ice Age by numerous volcanic eruptions, continuous erosion and glaciers.

One of the four departments of the province of Auvergne is Cantal, where you can still see the remains of a volcano that is millions of years old, with its highest summits the Plomb du Cantal (1,855 m) and the Puy Mary (1,787 m). Around the centre of this volcano arose lovely valleys, with mountain streams, waterfalls and meadows covered in wild flowers. In countless places pure, fresh water bubbles up out of the ground from centuries-old springs.

In order to protect this impressive scenery the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne was created. It covers an area of 348,000 hectares and has a population of no more than 90,000.

Its flora counts over 2,000 different plant species and its fauna includes deer, mouflon, chamois, wild boars, marmots and foxes. In the sky you can admire birds of prey, such as buzzards, falcons, eagles, and red and black kites.

In the fertile valleys and also on the mountains you will find brown Saler cows grazing. Their milk is used to make the delicious Cantal cheeses, which can weigh as much as 40 kg.

'Le Clou'

High above the village of Thiézac at 1,100 m, in an oasis of peace and tranquillity, you will find our walkers’ guesthouse. It was built in 1806 of natural stone only, and it is one of the highest situated farms in the area. Its architectural style and the materials used go with the rest of the park. The interior has been left intact where possible. The old kitchen, the souillarde, is still there, and there is a fire burning in the authentic large fireplace, the cantou. The delicious, pure water of 'Le Clou' comes from its own spring.

From our guesthouse there is a wonderful view over the valley of the Cère and the mountain range of the Plomb du Cantal. It is the perfect place for hiking, exploring and enjoying.