What to do in Clermont-Ferrand?
Have you just moved to Clermont-Ferrand, capital of the Puy-de-Dôme, in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region? Many activities of all kinds await you! The city is dynamic, vibrant and full of resources. It is not for nothing that it was built in the heart of the volcanoes!
The city
Built in lava stone, the main buildings of the city are anthracite and this is what creates the special atmosphere of the metropolis! So go and discover Clermont-Ferrand! First, take the time to admire the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption cathedral over a good coffee or a good beer at the Café Pascal, on the Place de la Victoire.
Then set off to discover the historic centre. If you are attentive during your stroll, you will be able to see, at the bend of a street, the traces of the house where the famous Blaise PASCAL was born. For street art enthusiasts, you will see a large wall covered in coloured graphics on the impasse des chaussetiers. You can also see mosaics on the walls of the city. In the summer, stop for lunch on the rooftop of “La maison du gaucher” and have an incredible time on the hidden roofs of Clermont.
Finally, end your journey in the heart of the city, on the Place de Jaude. Take the opportunity to do some shopping in the Galeries Lafayette or in the Jaude 1 and 2 centres. Shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas, everything is grouped together on the square to please you!
Feeling peckish? The city is full of gourmet addresses where you can discover or rediscover regional specialities, delight your taste buds and share convivial moments with your friends! So go and taste in a Clermont restaurant such as L’Oustagou, cheese boards and typical local dishes such as Saint-Nectaire cheese or a good Auvergne truffle!
Of course, Clermont is synonymous with Michelin. Learn more about one of the most important French companies and the history of the famous “Bibendum” by visiting the Michelin Adventure Museum! Put yourself in the shoes of two great entrepreneurs and immerse yourself in the history they created.
The ASM
The electric atmosphere you feel is also due to the rugby culture. Waves of yellow and blue invade the whole of Clermont during the home games played by the Top 14 team. So get organised to go and see one of the ASM Rugby matches! Feel the fervour of the “jaunards”, the unconditional public of the Clermont team and their unwavering chants!
Legend has it that when the thousands of fans pound the ground in unison during the finals, small earthquakes are recorded in nearby volcanoes! Maybe they will eventually wake them up…
Outdoor activities
Speaking of volcanoes, enjoy many outdoor adventures in the Parc naturel régional des Volcans d’Auvergne. Discover the Puys chain. Then climb to the top of the Puy de Dôme to enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the 80 volcanoes of the Auvergne.
Go for a hike, for example, opt for the Sancy ridge hike. A route that is as spectacular as it is breathtaking! In addition to the grandiose and breathtaking landscapes of the Chaudefour valley, you will also be able to observe animal life. If you are lucky you will see mouflons, chamois, roe deer and marmots! Any good hiker living in Clermont-Ferrand must have done this climb!
Among the multitude of landscapes that the region offers, you can also admire splendid lakes. The best known of these, Lake Pavin, is one of the many exceptional natural sites in the Clermont area. Lake Chambon, Lake Guéry and Lake Chauvet, to name but a few, are places not to be missed! Let yourself be charmed by their splendour. Swimming, water sports, fishing, walking or mountain biking, there is something for everyone! Take advantage of the majestic natural surroundings to bivouac with friends or flatmates and share magical and unforgettable moments!
Finally you can also discover the region in a more original way. By dog sled in winter, skiing, canyoning, hot air ballooning, or even paragliding, the Auvergne and its landscapes will never stop surprising you!
