• Tranquil Auvergne Trail

• Everyday (depending on availability) from 15 May to 15 October

• From £895
• From €995
• Prices per person based on 2 sharing a room
• Please contact us concerning single supplements
• Loyalty scheme reduction applies for returning customers (see terms and conditions)

• 7 nights: 6 days independent walking in a circuit moving between guest houses

• The world heritage town of Puy en Velay with its volcanic spires topped by religious monuments
• Unique circuit through open, wild and remote upland countryside punctuated by volcanic hills, secluded valleys and historic settlements
• Gently undulating terrain giving easy and moderate walking
• Historic villages and hamlets with a specific rural architecture and chateaux lining the upper Loire Valley
• A rich upland flora and fauna
• Friendly, authentic guest houses full of local character

• "I found the walk thoroughly enjoyable, even inspiring. The variety of lodging was a particular pleasure as well as the individual places themselves. And I could go on about the landscape etc interminably." G. Barron, UK
• "We enjoyed the flora at this time of year (June.) Such a delightfully quiet region." S & P Bloomfield, UK
• "Very quiet and peaceful. Beautiful countryside: wild flowers, birds. Very 'French.' Made to feel welcome. Thanks - we had a brilliant time." J. Goddard, UK More testimonials from the Auvergne

• Each night you'll be staying in a different guest house; either B&B or Auberge. They are 2 and 3 star equivalent in quality, offering authentic and comfortable accommodation. They are historic properties that have been lovingly restored where you'll be reserved a warm and generous welcome and enjoy home cooked fresh cuisine.

1. Transfer between the train station at Puy en Velay and first and last accommodation, transfer on day 2 to start of walk, 7 night's accommodation. B&B in Puy en Velay, full board whilst on trek. Full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage between guest houses

1. Travel to Puy en Velay, France. Lunches on arrival and departure days, plus lunches and evening meals in Puy en Velay. Drinks in some guest houses. Any excursions and entrance fees.

1. Return to all self-guided walking holidays

Walks

The walks average 15 to 22 km over gently undulating terrain. Individual ascents and descents are generally no more than 250m at a time. Mixture of paths, tracks and minor roads. The paths are generally good, although they can be rough and stony in places. The holiday is suitable for the occasional walker as well as those who walk more regularly. The walk is relatively long for the grade, although the ascents and descents are relatively gentle. Mont Mezenc reaches a height of 1753m.

Day 1: Arrival

Welcome in Puy en Velay and transfer to guest house

Day 2: Puy en Velay to St Julien Chapteuil

Transfer to Laussone. A gentle afternoon’s walk crossing a pretty countryside of volcanic summits that pepper the rolling farmland. You'll finish your day at the pretty village of St Julien Chapteuil with its beautiful Romanesque church. Option of longer walk via St Pierre Eynac. 12-19km, +290m - +410m.

Day 3: St Julien Chapteuil - Bigorre

Today starts with a climb onto a pretty ridge before descending to the pretty historic village of Montusclat with its dark stone buildings. Your trail winds around valleys and ridges to reach the tiny hamlet of Bigorre, made up of traditional thatch properties, where you’ll find your guest house. 19km, +570m

Day 4: Bigorre - Moudeyres

Climb onto the plateau where the views reach for miles. Visit the pretty village of St Front clinging to the hillside before heading north watched by grazing cattle munching on rich grassland. You’ll then climb to the historic village of Moudeyres with its wonderful stone and thatch buildings dating back centuries. A short walk brings you to your beautiful guest house in a magnificent stone property, immaculately restored. 18km, +320m

Day 5: Moudeyres - Les Estables

Today is a shorter day giving you the chance to ascend Mont Mezenc and take in exceptional views that, on a clear day, stretch to much of southern France. Gaze in wonder upon the Alps and much of the Massif Central. Descend to the pretty village of Les Estables and your auberge in a traditional stone building. 11 - 15km, +380m - +630m

Day 6: Les Estables- Le Monastier sur Gazeille

A long but gentle day’s walking across open undulating farmland heading away from the heights to the historic village of Monastier sur Gazeille. A great days walking with marvellous views all the way. 22km, +230m

Transfer to Puy en Velay at the end of your walk.

Day 7: Puy en Velay

Explore the amazing town of Puy en Velay, a World Heritage site with its amazing volcanic and religious heritage.

Day 8: Departure

Holiday ends after breakfast.

Please note that the exact location of some night's accommodation may change according to availability.