Discover Auvergne’s Romanesque villages, spa towns and volcanic panoramas on a relaxed rail-based escape based in charming Issoire.
  • Explore Montpeyroux’s hilltop lanes and 12th-century St Pierre church.
  • Ride the Panoramique des Dômes to Puy-de-Dôme’s sweeping views.
  • Discover Clermont-Ferrand’s café culture amid wooded volcanoes.
  • Admire Le Puy-en-Velay’s cathedral and chapel atop volcanic pillars.
  • Taste Saint-Nectaire cheese and see 12th-century works in its Romanesque church.
  • Explore Issoire’s market in the medieval core and St-Aistremoine Abbey.
  • Wander Vichy’s turn-of-the-century spa buildings and parks.
  • Explore Thiers’ half-timbered old quarter and cutlery-making heritage.
Stay at the charming three-star Le Pariou Hotel in Issoire, 20 minutes south of Clermont-Ferrand. Air-conditioned rooms feature private bath/shower, TV, telephone, minibar and hairdryer. Facilities include a bar, lounge, sun terrace, garden and a seasonally heated outdoor swimming pool. Friendly, family-run atmosphere, close to town.