Attractions and Places To See around Aurillac - Top 20

Aurillac boasts a rich history. You can wander through its well-preserved medieval streets and discover emblematic monuments like the 14th-century Maison Consulaire, known for its distinctive facade. The Saint-Géraud Abbey Church, founded in the 9th century, showcases a blend of architectural styles. Don't miss the Historic Centre with its magnificent townhouses from the 15th to 18th centuries. For more details on the historic center, you can visit paysaurillactourisme.com.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the summits of the ancient Cantal volcano. Puy Mary Summit, classified as a “Grand Site de France,” offers extensive vistas despite its 1,783 meters altitude. The Plomb du Cantal, at 1,855 meters, is the highest peak in Cantal and provides sweeping views. Another excellent spot is Puy Peyre-Arse, which dominates the Impradine, Santoire, and Jordanne valleys from 1,806 meters.

Absolutely. Just a few kilometers from Aurillac, the Gorges de la Jordanne offer a spectacular natural setting with lush forests and steep cliffs, explorable via a scenic 4 km trail. The region is also home to the remnants of an ancient volcanic massif, the Monts du Cantal. You can also visit Lac des Graves for a tranquil nature spot or Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès for water sports and swimming. For more on the Gorges de la Jordanne, see paysaurillactourisme.com.

The area around Aurillac is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can embark on various hiking adventures, from easy walks to challenging mountain trails. For specific hiking routes, explore guides like Hiking around Aurillac or Easy hikes around Aurillac. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Cantal Volcano Loop' and tours around the 'Lake of Saint-Étienne-Cantalès'. Find more cycling options in the Road Cycling Routes around Aurillac guide.

Yes, Aurillac offers several family-friendly options. Puy Mary Summit is considered family-friendly, offering an accessible way to experience the volcanic landscape. In Aurillac itself, Parc Hélitas is an urban park with green spaces and play areas. Just outside, La Plantelière arboretum in Arpajon-sur-Cère provides a 7-hectare natural site with activities like orienteering trails and scent gardens. Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès is also great for families, offering swimming and water sports.

Aurillac is renowned for its annual International Street Theatre Festival in August, one of Europe's largest, attracting performers and visitors globally. Beyond festivals, you can explore the Museum of Art and Archaeology, housed in a former convent, which features collections including a reconstruction of a traditional Cantal interior. The town's lively markets and shops selling local products like Aurillac umbrellas, Cantal cheeses, and charcuterie also offer a taste of local culture.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options around Aurillac. For example, you can enjoy the 'Faillitoux Waterfall – Faillitoux Waterfall loop from Las Molineyrie' or the 'Suspended Footbridge loop from Saint-Étienne-Cantalès'. These trails offer pleasant walks without significant difficulty. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Aurillac guide.

The best time to visit Aurillac largely depends on your interests. Summer, particularly August, is vibrant due to the renowned International Street Theatre Festival. For outdoor activities like hiking and exploring natural sites, late spring to early autumn (May to October) offers pleasant weather. If you're interested in winter sports, the nearby Le Lioran ski resort is active during the colder months.

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the Bélédat du Cassaïre, a historical site that offers a glimpse into the region's past. The specific streets of Rue du Collège and Rue du Consulat in Aurillac's historic center are lined with magnificent 15th to 18th-century townhouses, offering a charming walk. For a tranquil green space, Square Vermenouze, an English-style garden designed by Jean Alphand, provides a peaceful break.

For swimming and water activities, Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès, located about 20 minutes from Aurillac, is a popular choice. This large man-made lake offers opportunities for swimming, various water sports, and picnicking by the water. It's a great spot to cool off and enjoy nature during warmer months.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Aurillac region offers demanding trails, particularly in the Monts du Cantal. The 'Puy Mary and Peyre Arse Loop from Le Lioran' is a difficult 15 km route. Another challenging option is the 'Puy Griou and Cascade de Liadouze – loop starting from col de Pertus'. These routes often involve significant elevation changes and rugged terrain. You can find more details in the Hiking around Aurillac guide.