1. Tournemire and Anjony Castle
In the Cantal, numerous very well-preserved castles offer you a journey through history. This is certainly true of Anjony Castle, situated in the village of Tournemire, halfway between Aurillac and Salers.
This 15th-century fortress is a relic of the age of kings. Built in 1430 by Louis d’Anjony, a companion of Joan of Arc, the castle has been inhabited by the same family, generation after generation.
Open to the public for almost a century, the building is listed as a ‘Historic Monument’. As you approach the rocky outcrop, you’ll find yourself facing four round towers, each about 40 metres high.
As you step inside the castle, you’ll discover 16th-century religious frescoes, followed by a collection of beautifully preserved secular frescoes. Next, a visit to the armoury is a must before heading out onto the rampart walk. At the top of the keep, a breathtaking view of the Doire Valley awaits you.
2. The medieval village of Salers
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, it has lent its name to a breed of cattle as well as to the famous cheese made from raw milk from the high mountains. But Salers is also a fortified village that is full of charm.
Remains of the medieval ramparts can be seen here, particularly at the Porte du Beffroi and the Porte de la Martille. You’ll also see beautiful 15th-century mansions with turrets, unusual houses featuring corbelled towers, and even a turret with cut-off corners. Don’t miss this distinctive architecture, with its black volcanic stone buildings and slate roofs – book a flight to Aurillac Tronquières Airport.
3. The Jordanne Gorges
About twenty minutes from Aurillac, in the rural commune of Saint-Cirgues-de-Jordanne, immerse yourself in a 4-kilometre trail offering a complete change of scenery. On the volcanic terrain of the Cantal, follow the trail through this wild landscape as it winds through gorges 20 to 60 metres deep, carved out by water in the volcanic breccias.
The route takes you from the bottom of the gorges up to the ledges, passing by streams, wooden footbridges and even zip lines for the more adventurous.
Throughout this route, which takes several hours to complete, interactive information boards will enhance your knowledge of the local flora and fauna. Taking a break in the countryside is an excellent way to recharge your batteries before returning to city life and its work commitments.
4. Le Puy Mary
At the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, Puy Mary is a true icon of the Cantal. The climb to the summit of this protected site is made easier by the footpath leading from the highest road pass in the Massif Central.
Designated a ‘Grand Site de France’ since 2012, the summit of Puy Mary offers an exceptional view of Europe’s largest stratovolcano and its seven glacial valleys. This highest point can be reached after a walk of around forty minutes from the Pas de Peyrol starting point.
A 360° view from the orientation table allows you to take in this Auvergne giant, which has a diameter of 70 kilometres and covers an area of 2,700 km². These features make it the largest extinct volcano in Europe.
The visitor centre, situated at the foot of the summit, welcomes you to learn more about the volcano’s history, its formation and its landscapes. A range of other activities are also on offer, such as cycle touring, horse riding and paragliding during the summer months. In winter, the site offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
5. The Garabit Viaduct
The Garabit Viaduct is a structure listed as a Historic Monument and part of the network of Remarkable Bridges of the South of France. This railway viaduct was built by Gustave Eiffel in the 1880s with his engineering firm.
Measuring 565 metres in length, this metal structure – an extraordinary architectural feat – spans the Truyère Gorges to connect the two banks. Situated 122 metres above the river, the Garabit Viaduct stands out by day with its red colour and is illuminated at nightfall.
6. The thermal waters of Chaudes-Aigues
The reputation of the waters at Chaudes-Aigues is well established. The town boasts around thirty springs, the best known of which is the Source du Par, whose water emerges at 82°. This unique feature bears witness to the volcanic activity of the Cantal massif.
The Caleden complex offers spa treatments on the very site of the ancient thermal baths. But whilst you’re staying near Aurillac, be sure to visit Géothermia too. This museum traces the history of thermal bathing through an interactive tour.
As for the town’s architectural heritage, it is characterised by its 15th-century church, its cobbled streets, its slate roofs and its hot-water washhouse…
7. The Lioran resort
In the heart of the Cantal mountains, less than an hour from Aurillac, the Lioran resort is a vast ski area offering a wide range of activities, both in winter and summer.
An unmissable getaway for lovers of outdoor sports. Le Lioran welcomes you with its 75 kilometres of cross-country ski trails, 44 downhill ski runs, dog-sled rides and snowshoe walks…
In summer, walking takes centre stage, inviting you to discover the local flora and fauna. Thanks to its cable car, you can reach the Plomb du Cantal in 10 minutes to enjoy a breathtaking view of the peaks of the Massif Central.