Le Lioran transforms volcanoes into enchanted slopes
Le Lioran stands out as the jewel in the crown of ski resorts near Aurillac. Located just 40 minutes away by car, this 150-hectare ski area lies within the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park.
Skiers will find 43 slopes here, suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts. The runs offer exceptional views of the Cantaliens mountains, with altitudes ranging from 1,160 to 1,850 meters.
Beyond downhill skiing, the Lioran ski area offers snowshoe walks that wind through snow-covered forests. Children love sledding or electric snowmobile rides. An ice rink adds a fun touch to the evenings. The cable car makes it easy to reach the summits, avoiding unnecessary effort. This variety makes Le Lioran a reliable choice for action-packed days, where every member of the family will find something to enjoy.
Col de Légal offers an authentic northern haven
35 minutes from Aurillac, the Col de Légal peaks at 1,231 meters and charms visitors with its intimate atmosphere. This 150-hectare area excels in Nordic skiing, with trails marked out for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Hikes follow the GR4 and GR400 trails, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The absence of crowds allows for total immersion in the Cantalian countryside, where the silence is broken only by the crunch of snow. Activities such as ski touring attract adventurers looking for moderate challenges.
The Col de Légal ski resort also offers cultural outings, combining sports with discovering local heritage. Perfect for a relaxing day out, this spot is ideal for families looking for a quiet alternative to downhill skiing.
Access by road from Aurillac remains direct, with free parking available.
Prat de Bouc reveals the secrets of Cantal lead
Prat de Bouc, the northern gateway to Cantal, is located 55 minutes from Aurillac. At an altitude of 1,392 meters, this iconic pass borders Plomb du Cantal, the highest peak in the massif. The Nordic ski area boasts excellent cross-country trails, perfect for exploring unspoiled landscapes. Snowshoe walks lead to breathtaking viewpoints, such as the buron (shepherd's hut) at Meije Coste. Connected to Le Lioran via a ski lift, it allows you to combine alpine and Nordic skiing in a single outing.
Activities include introductory biathlon sessions for a competitive edge. La Maison du Col sells passes and provides practical information on routes.
This site is ideal for lovers of unspoiled nature, where winter reveals the volcanic majesty of the Cantal. Access from Aurillac is via well-maintained roads, even when snow-covered.
Laguiole completes the offering with its Aubrac charm.
An hour and a half south of Aurillac, the Laguiole resort has slopes on two sides, La Source and Le Bouyssou. Fifteen downhill ski runs, equipped with snow cannons, guarantee great skiing from the first snowfall. Ten ski lifts make it easy to get to the top, while four cross-country trails attract Nordic skiing enthusiasts.
A dedicated toboggan run delights younger visitors, and 30 km of snowshoe trails explore the snow-covered Aubrac. Dog sled rides add a magical dimension.
Although further away, this family resort is worth the detour for its authenticity. The road from Aurillac passes through varied landscapes, offering a scenic drive before the winter sports begin.
Prepare for your winter stay in Aurillac
To make the most of Aurillac in winter, book your flights in advance via Chalair.
- Check the opening dates of the resorts, which are often from December to March depending on snow conditions.
- Bring clothing suitable for the cold weather in Cantal, including thermal layers.
- Rent equipment on site to avoid congestion.
- Sample local specialties such as truffade in mountain huts to recharge your batteries.
- Follow the safety rules on the slopes, especially when with your family.
Aurillac also offers cozy accommodations, from hotels to cottages, to extend the experience. This preparation guarantees a wonderful vacation.
Easy access from Aurillac for a stress-free arrival
Reaching these ski resorts from Aurillac is a breeze. Aurillac-Tronquières Airport offers daily direct flights from Paris Orly. The flight takes just 1 hour and 20 minutes, which is ideal for avoiding long car journeys.
Once you land, rent a vehicle on site for complete freedom. Regular shuttles connect Aurillac to Le Lioran, with schedules tailored to flight arrivals. Allow about 40 minutes to reach the foot of the slopes. For those who prefer public transportation, seasonal buses provide service.
This accessibility transforms Aurillac into a winter hub, where you can go from the tarmac to the peaks in the blink of an eye. Remember to check the weather conditions in advance for a smooth journey.
Aurillac in winter reveals a world of accessible ski resorts, combining adrenaline and serenity. Whether it's Lioran for action or Col de Légal for peace, every visitor leaves captivated. Plan your getaway now with Chalair to capture the snowy magic of Cantal.
Related: 7 must-see experiences near Aurillac ; What to do in Aurillac? Top 5 best things to discover
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