Auvergne

Auvergne, FR in the very heart of the country lies a nearly untouched world of green mountains, wild gorges, inactive volcanoes, sparkling lakes, and raw nature.

 

This lively region is as varied as its residents. Clermont Ferrand is capital and is the area's main economic epicenter as well as a hub for education. With two universities, this prosperous center contrasts the mainly rural landscape. Outside of the city, you're hard pressed to find any other urban areas as the majority of Auvergne real estate in France is made up of charming acreages and quaint villas in the rolling countryside.

 

Chaine-des-Puys, a famous chain of cinder cones, lava domes, and maars in the Massif Central of France, can be found in Puy-de-Dôme, named after the famous dormant volcano. While the département Puy-de-Dôme boasts over 80 volcanic craters, the dormant volcano Puy-de-Dôme is one of the most visited sites in the Auvergne région. Of all the régions in France, Auvergne is surely one for adventurers and nature lovers.

 

In Allier, you can find the small town of Vichy, which was made famous for its rejuvenating mineral water. This spa destination is very popular with tourists are receives numerous visitors every year. Auvergne properties in Haute Loire have a Mediterranean feel as the presence of roman tiles on the roofs of houses here stem from historic roots in ancient Rome. Cantal in the southern end is famous for its delightful cheeses which lies in the heart of the Monts du Cantal, a volcanic bulge which sits at an altitude of over 800 meters above sea level.

 

Départements: Puy-de-Dôme, Allier, Cantal, and Haute-Loire.

 

Capital: Clermont-Ferrand

 

Regional Specialties: Cantal cheese, Salers cheese.