Auvergne, the region that has been settled by humans probably longer
than any lies in the very centre of France in mountainous region of the Massif
Central. One of the towns that worth attention is Bourbon-l'Archambault, which
was a ritzy spa during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Weathered buildings
and the ruined 14th-century Château still have an appealing faded glory.
Clermont-Ferrand is a regional centre and can be of interest as a centre of
French rubber industry. Moulins, once the capital of the dukes of Bourbon, with
Gothic-style Cathédrale Notre-Dame, deserves special attention.
Vichy, most elegant city of the region is worth a visit as it was attracting
Romans and later Paris haute society with its mineral waters for years.
Auvergne, which encompasses much of the Massif Central, is perhaps the least
known and most remote région of France. With two large spectacular
national parks - the dramatic Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans
d'Auvergne and its tamer neighbour the Parc Naturel Regional des Livradois-Forez
- it is almost entirely unspoiled and is the largest environmentally protected
area of France. There are also spectacular gorges, and geezers, lakes,
streams, rivers and thick vast forests. Hot springs and mineral cold springs
attract many curistes who come seeking relief from rheumatism, arthritis and
digestive ailments. Auvergne's beauty wasn't, of course, enough to stem an
exodus from the region and it is now heavily depopulated and poor. Its ageing
population proves there could be some truth in its reputation for being rustic
and backwards.
Auvergne region is paradise for those that enjoy active holidays in beautiful
countryside of lakes, volcanoes and plateaux. It is outstanding riding,
hiking and mountain climbing country and there are lakes where you can swim,
sail, windsurf, and fish. You can also white water raft and kayak through the
gorges of the Allier and Sioule rivers. Other outdoor opportunities include
paragliding and ballooning. There are several ski resorts so, for the energetic,
the Auvergne is an ideal place to visit at all times of year. Summers in
Auvergne are long and warm, with temperatures often reaching 30 degrees
punctuated by short sharp thunderstorms. The uplands are cooler and at altitudes
of over 1000m, snow frequently lies until May. Summer time region offers
trails for cycling, hiking, horse riding and plenty of space for golf. And in
winter you will find perfect conditions for downhill and cross-country skiing as
well as snowboarding. And if your idea of nice holidays does not include much of
activities, you are likely to enjoy more peaceful parts of the region, where you
can spend your time fishing or watching birds, sun tanning on the board of the
boat and going for excursions around the famous castles La Pilisse, Murol, Val,
cathedral of Puy-en-Velay and basilica Notre Dame d'Orchival.Some of the
villages of the region are of interest too, as for example Tournemire, Salers,
Moustiers Sainte Marie, where the atmosphere of the old Auvergne lives.
The region of Auvergne is well known for its spa towns, many of which
combine old traditions with the modern techniques. The art of hydrotherapy is
long practiced in the region, and therefore visiting any of the spa towns you
can be sure of professional treatment, whether you are looking for a chance to
take care of your health, or combat signs of ageing or stress of modern life.
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