Are you ready to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Auvergne Volcanoes Park? One of the highlights of this park is the Puy Mary, a majestic volcano that rises over 1,783 meters above sea level. With its seven glacial valleys, this massif offers an extraordinary landscape shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion.
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Most Beautiful Hikes in Puy Mary
To fully enjoy this unique natural wonder, we recommend exploring the area through one of the four most spectacular hikes around Puy Mary. From the Gorges de la Jordanne to the Col de la Serre, each trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. So put on your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Parc des Volcans d’Auvergne!
1. Le Puy-Mary from Pas de Peyrol
- Duration: about 1h
- Distance: 1.3 km
- Height difference: 133 m
- Difficulty: Easy
The Puy-Mary circuit from Pas de Peyrol is an easy and accessible hike suitable for everyone, offering one of the most stunning landscapes of Cantal. At the top, you can enjoy a panoramic 360° view of the twelve valleys. Due to the exceptional nature of the site, it is essential to follow the marked trail to preserve it.
Although this trail is beautiful, it is also very popular, so it’s best to plan your ascent early. Starting early will also provide you with better visibility. Keep in mind that you are hiking on a volcano located at over 1,700 meters above sea level, which means that the weather can change rapidly.
When planning a hike in the Puy-Mary circuit, it’s important to come prepared with the right gear, especially since the weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear, even if it seems sunny outside, to avoid getting soaked if the weather changes unexpectedly.
Despite the potential for changing weather, the hike is still well worth it, even on cloudy days. This trail is easy enough for families to enjoy and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Cantal region.
2. The Col d’Eylac-Puy de Peyre-Arse – Puy-Mary
- Duration: about 2h30
- Distance: 9.2 km
- Height difference: 599 m
- Difficulty: Medium
This variant of the Puy-Mary circuit is more challenging than the initial route, but it is definitely worth the effort. From the Col d’Eylac-Puy de Peyre Arse, you will follow a narrow and steep path to reach the ridge line, also known as “Les Fours de Peyre Arse”. This part of the trail is more technical, and you will need to be careful, especially in wet or icy conditions.
However, the views from the ridge line are simply breathtaking, and you will be able to see the Puy Mary, the Puy Griou, and many other peaks of the Cantal. The highlight of the route is the Brèche Rolland, a natural breach in the ridge line that offers a stunning view over the valley and the surrounding mountains.
This variant is longer than the initial route, and it will take you around 4 to 5 hours to complete it. You should bring enough water and food, as there are no facilities along the way. Additionally, it is essential to wear appropriate hiking shoes and clothing, as the weather can change quickly at this altitude.
It is also important to bring adequate equipment such as good hiking shoes, warm and comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and enough water and food for the hike. It is also recommended to bring a map or a GPS device to avoid getting lost on the trail. Finally, it is important to respect the environment and not leave any waste on the trail.
3. Puy Mary from the Col de Serre
- Duration: about 3h
- Distance: 10 km
- Height difference: 473 m
- Difficulty: Medium
This hike through the Col de Serre to Puy Mary is an amazing way to escape the crowded high season at Pas de Peyrol. You can still enjoy spectacular landscapes and reach the same destination – the breathtaking panorama from Puy Mary. Plus, this route has the added bonus of discovering Col de Serre and Col d’Eylac. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!
4. The Pas de Peyrol in Claux by the Puy Mary
- Duration: about 3h
- Distance: 19.6 km
- Height difference: 797 m
- Difficulty: Difficult
Looking for a unique hiking experience in the Cantal region? Why not try the Puy Mary round trip via the ridges overlooking the Falgoux and Cheylade valleys? This alternative hike will take you to the summit of Puy Mary, with the added bonus of discovering the Puy de la Tourte, a lesser-known but equally breathtaking massif.
At over 850 meters in altitude, the Puy de la Tourte offers stunning views of Puy de Sancy and the rest of the Cantal region. In addition, archaeological excavations have revealed an ancient Gallo-Roman site on this massif, adding an extra layer of history and culture to your hike.
Don’t miss out on this unique hiking opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Cantal.
This last hiking option to reach the summit of Puy Mary takes you on a round trip through the ridges overlooking the valleys of Falgoux and Cheylade. After reaching the top of Puy Mary, you will continue to climb the Puy de la Tourte, which at over 850 meters high offers a breathtaking panorama of the Puy de Sancy and the rest of Cantal.
The trail will take you through the undergrowth and alpine pastures, and you will have the opportunity to explore the stunning forest of Bragouse and admire the picturesque Lascourt Pond. Throughout the hike, you will be treated to a variety of breathtaking panoramas, offering a glimpse of the diverse landscapes that can be found in Cantal.
This trail takes approximately 7 hours to complete, and since there are no refreshment points on the way, it is essential to bring enough water for the entire hike. However, the stunning views of the region make this hike truly worth it.
Wrap Up
So, grab your hiking boots, pack your water, and get ready to embark on a grand adventure in the heart of the Cantal! I hope you find the article “Most Beautiful Hikes in Puy Mary” helpful.