10 good reasons to visit Cantal this year

A prestigious castle here, an iconic peak there… The Salers region is brimming with ideas for a getaway rich in greenery and heritage. So lace up your best hiking boots: here are our 10 top reasons to visit Cantal this year!

The Pays de Salers Tourist Office

1. To climb Puy Mary, the must-see of Cantal!

The first thing to do when visiting the Cantal region is to plan a trip to Puy Mary. Why? Because it's a designated "Grand Site de France," of course!

Located on one of the oldest volcanoes in the Auvergne and the largest stratovolcano in Europe (yes, really!), it's an absolute must-do during your vacation in the region. As a bonus, at 1,787 meters high, it also offers a 360° view of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park. Getting there is very simple: leave your car at the Pas de Peyrol pass and then it's up to you to climb the 239 steps.

2. To explore Salers, the 100% Auvergne village

What would a visit to the Cantal region be without a stop in Salers? Classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, this small medieval town has plenty of surprises in store. Start by strolling through the Place Tyssandier d’Escous, named after the man who revived the Salers breed of cattle, then wander through the narrow streets to admire its Renaissance facades. Finally, end your exploration with a break on the Esplanade de Barrouze: a 360° view of the Puy Violent and the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park… It looks like you've found the most beautiful spot in town!

3. To meet the Salers cow, the star of Auvergne

You're bound to see her during your vacation: a beautiful mahogany-red coat, lyre-shaped horns, and long, curly hair… The Salers cow is the undisputed star of the Auvergne! Known for its cheese and meat, it's loved for its hardiness, which makes it easy to raise on the rugged slopes of the Cantal mountains. Don't forget to say hello!

Want to learn more about the Salers breed? Here are a few places to visit:

4. To challenge yourself on the Puy Violent and the Puy Chavaroche

There's more to Cantal than just the Puy Mary! Barely back down, head off again for the Puy Violent and its 1,594 meters of altitude. At its summit, its pyramidal cone promises a real calf workout and a panoramic view of the Puy Mary, the Roc des Ombres, and even the Sancy massif. Not far from there, the more challenging Puy de Chavaroche surprises hikers with its "stone man" perched atop the mountain. Intrigued? Then why not climb it?

5. To explore the other charming villages of Cantal

Salers is certainly a village worth a visit. But what about the other towns in the Cantal region? To continue your journey through history, head to the charming village of Pleaux. Nestled on the plateau of the Cantal mountains, between the Maronne and Dordogne gorges, this former bastide town in the Haute-Auvergne region invites you to explore its cobbled streets. Along the way, don't forget to stop in Tournemire, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France. In addition to the gem that is the Château d'Anjony (more on that below 👇), the village boasts some beautiful houses typical of the 14th and 15th centuries. A special mention goes to the Church of Saint John the Baptist, which is also well worth a visit!

6. To collect nature activities made in Cantal

Sports enthusiast? In the Cantal region, you won't need to postpone your training until after your vacation. The Puy Mary - Volcan du Cantal, a designated Grand Site de France, along with the countless trails of the Pays de Salers, cater to all sports enthusiasts, from casual weekend warriors to elite athletes. Canyoning, climbing, horseback riding, hot air ballooning or paragliding, canoeing and kayaking… there's something for everyone!

7. To taste all the specialties of Auvergne

All that activity works up an appetite! Luckily, the Cantal region is a haven for sports enthusiasts, but also for food lovers. After a day exploring villages or hiking the trails, a break is essential, preferably at a good restaurant. A Salers steak, renowned for its bright red flesh, even marbling, and juicy flavor, will delight all meat lovers. Those with a hearty appetite will undoubtedly fall for the truffade. And for the cheese lovers, the choice is yours: Cantal, Salers, or Salers Tradition? That is the question…

Did you know?

Salers cheese and Salers beef are so exceptional that they've been awarded the "Site Remarquable de Goût" (Remarkable Taste Site) label, which recognizes the link between a specialty and its region… Curious to know which one to try first?

→ Take our quiz and discover which Auvergne specialty is right for you!

8. To cool off at Lake Enchanet

For a truly relaxing holiday, you can also count on the Auvergne region! The best spot to cool off and unwind? Lake Enchanet, the most beautiful and wildest lake in the Cantal. This reservoir, created between 1946 and 1950, is the ideal place to combine relaxation with stunning Auvergne views. Try out the water sports offered at Longayroux, take the plunge, learn to fish for pike, or go hiking to admire the Maronne gorges and the panoramic views of the volcanoes… That's what holidays are all about!

9. To experience the castle life in Auvergne

Who said volcanoes and history don't go together? Certainly not the Auvergne! Long a stronghold in central France, the region is brimming with castles to explore. Begin your journey at the Château d'Anjony (the famous one) to admire the panoramic view of Tournemire from its ramparts. Then, venture into the contemporary, medieval-inspired gardens of the Château de la Trémolière and admire its magnificent collection of Aubusson tapestries. To extend the pleasure, head to the Château de Saint-Chamant, also known for its tapestries and woodwork, before concluding with the Château de la Vigne and its 15th-century fortress. A truly unique historical journey!

10. For hiking among the volcanoes in the Cirque de Récusset

Looking for the very best of Cantal? Then it's time to plan a hike in the Cirque de Récusset! Volcanic landscapes, traditional mountain huts (burons), a wide valley carved by glaciers, and a protected natural area... this place has it all! To make sure you don't miss a thing, try a hike on one of its interpretive trails. Pastoralism or biodiversity: which will you choose to explore Cantal today?

Bonus: other visit in Cantal

Of course, Auvergne is a vast region that can be explored over several visits! Here are a few more must-see sites to add to your next vacation to-do list:

• The town of Aurillac and its street theater;
• The Le Lioran ski resort and the Plomb du Cantal mountain;
• The Garabit-Eiffel Viaduct and the Chaudes-Aigues thermal spa;