Le Monestier to Clermont-Ferrand via the Tuscany of Auvergne

This day trip from Le Monestier to Clermont-Ferrand crosses the gently rolling country sometimes called the Tuscany of Auvergne, combining historic villages, volcanic landscapes and an afternoon in the regional capital.

Leaving the gîtes, the route leads west through the Livradois-Forez towards Billom. Its medieval streets and warm-toned buildings make it a rewarding first stop, offering a slower and more intimate introduction to the history of this part of the Puy-de-Dôme.

The journey continues towards the Château d’Aulteribe, set within a wooded landscape between the Livradois hills and the Limagne plain. From here, the countryside gradually opens and the volcanic skyline around Clermont-Ferrand begins to come into view.

On reaching the city, Parc de Montjuzet provides a peaceful place to pause and enjoy a picnic above Clermont-Ferrand. The park’s elevated position offers a useful first impression of the city, its surrounding landscape and the chain of volcanic summits beyond.

The afternoon can be shaped around your interests. Explore the dark volcanic-stone architecture of the historic centre and Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral, browse the streets around Place de Jaude, or discover the industrial and social history associated with Michelin.

After dinner, the return route offers one final perspective on the region. A pause near the Plateau de Gergovie can bring wide evening views across the Limagne before the road turns east again, returning through the quieter landscapes of the Livradois-Forez to Le Monestier.