According to Wikipedia, “Auvergne is a historical and cultural region of France located in the heart of the Massif Central. It is limited to the west by the Limousin and the Dordogne gorges, and to the east by the Monts du Forez, its southern border remains more indecisive.

It can nevertheless be marked out by the Aubrac and the Margeride. In addition, the Auvergne is one of the most popular tourist destinations, whether for a weekend getaway or for a vacation with family, friends or even solo. In this article we present you the top 5 of the best attractions not to be missed in Auvergne.

1. The landscapes

The geographical location of the Auvergne gives it many advantages, including the beauty of the landscapes that offer a magnificent spectacle at any time of the day. The charm of the mountains covered with greenery and the blue color of the lakes as well as the waterfalls delight the spirit and enchant the heart of those who come to rest there.

In winter, the particularly white tips of these same massifs and the white snow that covers most of the area can only highlight the natural magnificence of the region. In addition, Auvergne is one of the best destinations for hiking, climbing and snow sports fans. In a few words, the beauty of the Auvergne’s landscapes allows you not only to escape into a magnificent world, but also to evacuate the stress accumulated in daily life.

2. Zoological parks

In Auvergne, you can discover many animal species whose origins are scattered all over the world, without making your wallet warm. As an example, we can mention the African elephant, the Asian dwarf otter, the Sumatran tiger (Indonesia), giraffes, hippos, billy goats, coyotes, etc.

In addition, here is a list of animal parks you can visit in the region with their location:

• Le Parc Le Pal, located in Saint-Pourçain-sur-Besbre – 03290 Dompierre-sur-Besbre ;
• La Maison Aquarium du val de Besbre, located 5 Rue du Château – 03220 Jaligny-sur-Besbre ;
• Parc Animalier d’Auvergne, located Route d’Anzat Le Luguet – 63420 Ardes ;
• Myocastors et Kangourous educational park, located Boissière, route de Murol – 63710 Saint-Nectaire
• Aquarium La Maison du Saumon et de la Rivière, located Place de la Résistance – 43100 Brioude

You can also visit the domain of the wild animals, familiscope, etc.

3. The volcanic sites

The numerous sites of dormant volcanoes within the territory of the Auvergne have allowed it to have hot springs and to benefit from a magnificent landscape and/or natural park. Choose Auvergne for your next vacation destination if you want to see the Monts du Cantal and the Chaîne des Puys – Limagne fault up close.

According to Auvergne Destination, the former is considered the largest volcano in Europe, while the latter is a Unesco World Heritage Site. In addition to these emblematic volcanoes, the region still has many exceptional volcanic sites including the Puy de Sancy, the Tartaret volcano and the Puy de Dôme.

Auvergne is famous for its volcanoes. One of them is the Puy de Sancy, located in the Monts Dore and has about 1885 m of altitude. To get to the top, you have to take a cable car. At the top, many activities are waiting for you, like hiking. Unlike other volcanoes, the Puy de Sancy is decorated with unique vegetation. Visiting the top of the Puy Sancy is simply magnificent!

4. Amusement parks and leisure activities

Young and old, you will also have a large choice of amusement parks and leisure activities in Auvergne. For example, Vulcania is an amusement park located on the road to Mazayes, the Mirabel park on the hill of MIrabel, Aydat Aventure, the Medieval Castle of Murol or the Aqualudic Center which are located on the Puy de Dôme, etc. In short, you now have an idea of the activities to do and the places to visit to enjoy a long stay in Auvergne.

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