The Puy Mary… an absolute must while on holiday in the area with your family!

The Puy Mary is one of the most famous peaks in the Auvergne volcanoes range. Whatever the age of your children, a walk to the top of the Puy Mary must not be missed!

The Puy Mary, Grand Site de France

It goes without saying that the Puy Mary is a truly magnificent peak and Cantal’s most iconic summit. Shaped like a huge pyramid and located in the heart of the largest volcano in Europe,the Puy Mary is a site that mustn’t be missed. When at its foot, it isn’t difficult to understand why. The panoramic view from is absolutely breath-taking.

Although the summit culminating at an altitude of 1,787 metres is not the highest in Cantal, it does however offer one of the most spectacular views in the area. No fewer than seven glacial valleys radiate from the Puy Mary like a star: Jordanne, Impradine, Santoire, Maronne, Petite Rhue, Mars, Aspre and Bertrande. There isn’t a single crater in sight, and yet remember, the Cantal volcano is the largest stratovolcano in Europe and part of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park. You are at the very heart of a landscape that is the result of millions of years of volcanic activity, erosion and more recently, farming.

The Puy Mary, a must for all the family!

 The climb may seem quite difficult, especially if you’re with young children, but the view from the top is breath-taking! A well-deserved reward after the steady climb up the steps on the footpath. It would be wrong to say it’s an easy walk, but there are several stop-off points along the way where you can catch your breath and enjoy the view. If you’re with young children, we strongly recommend that you take a children carrier backpack with you.

The 360° panoramic view from the top makes the effort all worth it! The peaks of the great Cantal volcano stand proud before you and the seven magnificent  glacial valleys stretch out below. Use the viewpoint table at the top to identify them all and get your bearings. You can also take the time to enjoy a well-deserved break or a picnic. Young and old alike will savour this unique moment Whatever the age, You can set up for a snack break or a picnic break. Young and old alike will appreciate this unique moment on top of the world in the heart of the mountains.

par Virginie
le 05 November 2019