The Puy de Dôme: exceptional panoramic view of the Chaîne des Puys
It takes just a few minutes to reach one of Auvergne’s most spectacular landscapes from our hotel in Orcines.
Rising to an altitude of 1,465 meters, the Puy de Dôme offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Chaîne des Puys volcanoes, the Limagne Plain, and the surrounding Auvergne terrain.
Once at the summit, take the time to explore the various viewing points.
Stretching out before you is the distinctive alignment of the Chaîne des Puys, a chain comprising some 80 volcanic formations.
Together with the Limagne Fault, this exceptional area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2018.
On a clear day, your gaze can travel far across the Auvergne landscape.
Craters, domes, and volcanic cones stretch as far as the eye can see a spectacular setting that allows you to fully appreciate a landscape shaped by volcanic activity.
To reach the summit with ease, hop aboard the Panoramique des Dômes.
This electric rack-and-pinion train travels 5.6 km, reaching an altitude of 1,465 meters in just 15 minutes.
As you ascend, the landscape gradually unfolds outside the windows.
Prefer to walk? The "Chemin des Muletiers" (Muleteers' Path) offers a wonderful alternative.
Starting from the Col de Ceyssat, the route covers 1.9 km with an elevation gain of 350 meters; allow about 45 minutes to an hour for the climb.
The Puy de Dôme also offers a journey back in time. In the 2nd century, the Gallo-Romans built the Temple of Mercury here, considered the largest mountain sanctuary in Roman Gaul.
Its remains can be seen at the summit today, complemented by a museum area that offers insight into the role of this ancient pilgrimage site.
After taking in the heights, return to the peaceful atmosphere of the Hotel Les Hirondelles*** in Orcines.
And if the fresh volcanic air has worked up your appetite, you can choose from a selection of local dishes served in jars to enjoy in our dining room or conservatory.
A simple, friendly way to wind down after a day in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes.
Book one of our 30 warmly decorated rooms today.
Rising to an altitude of 1,465 meters, the Puy de Dôme offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Chaîne des Puys volcanoes, the Limagne Plain, and the surrounding Auvergne terrain.
A 360° view of the Chaîne des Puys
Once at the summit, take the time to explore the various viewing points.
Stretching out before you is the distinctive alignment of the Chaîne des Puys, a chain comprising some 80 volcanic formations.
Together with the Limagne Fault, this exceptional area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2018.
On a clear day, your gaze can travel far across the Auvergne landscape.
Craters, domes, and volcanic cones stretch as far as the eye can see a spectacular setting that allows you to fully appreciate a landscape shaped by volcanic activity.
Ascending the Puy de Dôme via the Panoramique des Dômes
To reach the summit with ease, hop aboard the Panoramique des Dômes.
This electric rack-and-pinion train travels 5.6 km, reaching an altitude of 1,465 meters in just 15 minutes.
As you ascend, the landscape gradually unfolds outside the windows.
Prefer to walk? The "Chemin des Muletiers" (Muleteers' Path) offers a wonderful alternative.
Starting from the Col de Ceyssat, the route covers 1.9 km with an elevation gain of 350 meters; allow about 45 minutes to an hour for the climb.
In the footsteps of the Gallo-Romans at the Temple of Mercury
The Puy de Dôme also offers a journey back in time. In the 2nd century, the Gallo-Romans built the Temple of Mercury here, considered the largest mountain sanctuary in Roman Gaul.
Its remains can be seen at the summit today, complemented by a museum area that offers insight into the role of this ancient pilgrimage site.
Staying at the foot of the Puy de Dôme in Orcines
After taking in the heights, return to the peaceful atmosphere of the Hotel Les Hirondelles*** in Orcines.
And if the fresh volcanic air has worked up your appetite, you can choose from a selection of local dishes served in jars to enjoy in our dining room or conservatory.
A simple, friendly way to wind down after a day in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes.
Book one of our 30 warmly decorated rooms today.
