The best running trails in Volcans D'Auvergne

The Volcans D'Auvergne region offers a vast network of trails for runners. Komoot alone lists over 1,600 jogging routes, catering to all levels from easy strolls to challenging trail runs.

The region is exceptional for its diverse volcanic landscapes, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Chaîne des Puys with its 80 dormant volcanoes, and the mountainous Monts Dore. Runners can explore ancient craters, lava flows, lush forests, serene valleys, and numerous lakes and waterfalls, all offering stunning panoramic views.

The running routes in Volcans D'Auvergne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Runners frequently praise the varied terrain, the breathtaking volcanic scenery, and the well-maintained trails that offer options for all abilities.

Yes, the Volcans D'Auvergne offers plenty of options for beginners and those looking for easier runs. There are over 80 easy routes available, often winding through forests or around lakes with minimal elevation gain. For example, the region research mentions the 'petite boucle de La Garandie' (4km) as a relatively flat option.

For challenging trail running, the Monts Dore and the Chaîne des Puys are excellent choices. Routes around the Puy de Sancy, the highest peak in the Massif Central, offer significant climbs and technical terrain. The The waterfalls - circuit trail from Mont-Dore is a difficult 18.1 km route with substantial elevation gain, perfect for experienced trail runners. There are over 660 difficult routes in the region.

Many of the jogging routes in the Volcans D'Auvergne are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A great example is the Puy de la Vache and Puy de Lassolas Loop Trail, which offers a moderate 4.3 km run around these distinctive volcanic cones.

Absolutely! The Monts Dore region and the Chaudefour Valley are particularly known for their beautiful waterfalls. The The waterfalls - circuit trail from Mont-Dore is an 18.1 km difficult route specifically designed to explore these scenic natural features.

Yes, you can definitely jog around these iconic volcanic domes. The Puy de la Vache and Puy de Lassolas Loop Trail is a popular moderate route that takes you through the unique reddish, ash-covered slopes of these two volcanoes, offering a distinctive running experience.

The running trails in Volcans D'Auvergne offer incredible panoramic views. From the Chaîne des Puys, you'll see alignments of dormant volcanoes. Higher peaks like Puy de Sancy and Puy de Dôme Summit provide sweeping vistas of the entire volcanic landscape, surrounding mountains, and valleys. Many routes also feature scenic lakes and dense forests.

Yes, several running routes are easily accessible from local towns. For instance, the Loop 1: around Volvic – Trail du Vulcain is a 22.1 km trail that starts and ends near Volvic. Similarly, The gorges of l'Artière – trail circuit starting from Ceyrat is a moderate 6.9 km route beginning directly from Ceyrat.

Definitely. The region is rich with mountain passes and summits that offer fantastic running opportunities. For example, the The loop of the Domes - trail route from the Ceyssat pass provides panoramic views from the Ceyssat Pass. Other notable passes include Pas de Peyrol Pass and Route du col de la Croix Saint-Robert, which are often incorporated into longer trail runs.

Yes, the popularity of running in the Volcans D'Auvergne is highlighted by several dedicated events. The 'Course des Volcans d'Auvergne' in Clermont-Ferrand has been organized for over 35 years, and trail races like the Sancy Mont-Dore attract thousands of athletes, often held in January and September.