GR®30: Top 4 of the Best Stages of the Tour of the Auvergne Lakes

Discover the Volcanic Treasures of the GR®30: An Unforgettable Natural Adventure in Auvergne

Dive into the heart of the spectacular volcanic landscapes of Auvergne with the GR®30, the Tour des Lacs d'Auvergne. This iconic hike offers you a total immersion in the wild beauty of the Monts Dore and the Massif du Sancy, promising an incomparable nature adventure for hiking enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

Stage 1: La Bourboule to Orcival - L'Éveil Volcanique

Begin your volcanic odyssey on the GR®30 trails starting from La Bourboule. This first stage immediately immerses you in the fascinating world of Auvergne volcanoes:

Admire the majestic silhouettes of the Massif du Sancy and the Monts Dôme
Discover the serenity of the volcanic lakes of Guery and Servieres
Explore the iconic peaks of Banne d'Ordanche and Puy Gros

This section of the GR®30 offers a perfect introduction to the unique geological and botanical diversity of the region, ideal for families and beginner hikers looking for a first volcanic experience.

Stage 4: From Saint-Nectaire to Besse - In the Heart of the Sleeping Giants

Continue your volcanic adventure on the GR®30 to Besse, where every step brings you closer to the fascinating geological history of Auvergne:

Admire breathtaking panoramas of Lake Chambon and the Chaudefour Valley
Explore the historic villages of Saint-Nectaire and Murol, witnesses to the thousand-year-old interaction between man and volcanoes
End your day in the charming medieval town of Besse, nestled at the foot of the volcanoes

This stage of the GR®30 is perfect for history and geology enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Stage 5: From Besse to Brion - The Ascent of the Giants

The volcanic adventure intensifies on this stage of the GR®30, taking you as close as possible to the most impressive peaks in the region:

Climb the slopes of Puy Ferrand, Puy de Montchal and Puy de la Perdrix
Discover the mysterious Lac Pavin, a volcanic jewel with deep blue waters
Enjoy a well-deserved break at the Super Besse resort, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes

This section of the GR®30 will delight experienced hikers and challenge seekers, with its more technical trails and magnificent landscapes.

Stage 9: From Chareire to La Bourboule - The Grand Volcanic Finale

Conclude your journey on the GR®30 in style with the ascent of the legendary Puy de Sancy:

Reach the highest point of the Massif Central for a 360° panorama of the entire Chaîne des Puys
Relive the geological history of the region by observing the glacial valleys and volcanic formations
End your adventure at La Bourboule, a famous spa resort nestled in the heart of the volcanoes

This last stage of the GR®30 offers an epic conclusion to your exploration of the volcanic treasures of Auvergne, ideal for hikers looking to end their adventure on a memorable note.

Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a nature lover or simply looking for a unique adventure, the GR®30 and its volcanic trails promise you an unforgettable experience in the heart of Auvergne. Prepare your hiking boots and set off to discover these sleeping giants, witnesses to the tumultuous history of our planet.