Auvergne, France Main Towns: Aurillac, Clermont-Ferrand, Gergovia, Le Pay en Velay, Moulins, Ravel, Vichy.

The Auvergne region of France is also known as the Massif Central region and is the very centre of France. Its spectacular volcanic terrain possesses a stark beauty on a vast scale. It's four departments, Allier, Cantal, Haute-Loire and Puy-de-Dome, lie in the heart of France only one hour from Lyon or three from Paris.

Auvergne ham, trout or salmon from the river, or cheeses including Bleu d'Auvergne and Saint-Nectaire will greatly enhance the "flavour" of your holiday.

Stroll across the battlefield of Gergovia, follow in the footsteps of Lafayette, find out about the local legends. Visit some of the Auvergne's castles where medieval knights one jousted, or go along the Route of the spa towns. Those who are keen on Romanesque art will admire the many churches which suggest inspiration from the School of the Auvergne.

Of its ten Spa towns, the most famous is Vichy, on the Banks of the Allier, with its parks, restaurants, opera house, horse racing and vast lake. It has retained the charm, elegance and atmosphere of the Twenties when it was first fashionable, with architecture from Art Nouveau to Neo-Gothic .  Le Puy's 13th Century Cathedral was a starting point for pilgrims to Compostela, and is the capital of the Haute Loire, where hand made lace is still made.

The four departments which constitute Auvergne - Haute-Loire, Cantal, Puy-de-Dôme, Allier - form a striking province of sharp-peaked extinct volcanic mountains and sparkling crater lakes. A land of amazing geological diversity, webbed with little-travelled roads, Auvergne is dotted with castles, historic ruins and walled villages. Clermont-Ferrand, Auvergne's capital, is topped by the sacred mountain of Puy-de-Dôme, and once housed a vast Roman temple dedicated to Mercury. From its peak, the view encompasses an impressive 20-mile long procession of 60 volcanic peaks. Parentignat, called the "Versailles" of Auvergne, boasts superb antiques, paintings and tapestries. Nearby Ravel is a classic manor within the walls of a fortress.

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