This guidebook explores an ancient volcanic landscape formed over 70,000 years ago. The Auvergne offers a wealth of accessible walking against a backdrop of spectacular mountain scenery, which is nevertheless suitable for most walkers, with the 42 routes in thsi guidebook ranging from 5km strolls to more challenging 20km adventures. The Auvergne region rises out of the Massif Central and spans the area from the spa towns of Vichy and Clermont-Ferrand to the historic Le Puy-en-Velay. The landscape bears witness to the seismic volcanic eruptions of bygone ages, the result of which is that the area boasts mountainous terrain set alongside a wealth of more gentle ground, all of which is open to exploration and discovery. The Auvergne area is both accessible and provides a wide range of cultural and historical (and geological) interest. The guidebook also provides a wide range of practical information for visiting the Auvergne, with accommodation transport, and preparation advice, as well as providing a wealth of detail on the many places of interest along the walks. The walks are grouped around five areas, as follows: The Cantal offers steep and dramatic peaks, but these are relatively easy to achieve a circular route to the summit and back can take just a little under three hours. The Chane des Puys (Monts Dmes) is home to the very distinctive dome-shaped mountains, the highest of which (Puy de Dme) is just 1,465m.

For a city base, Clermont-Ferrand is an ideal choice, while the village of Orcival offers a quieter option. The Monts Dore has topography that favours multi-peak ridge crest link-ups, and its location means that it can be explored from the same bases as suggested for the Chane des Puys. The Haute-Loire offers gentle hiking options, with many cultural and historical sites to visit en route. The Montagne Bourbonnaise is likewise an area for mild strolls of only a couple of hours and with little ascent a perfect destination to escape from a hectic 21st-century lifestyle. 42 day walks in five areas of rural France illustrated with clear sketch maps and colour photographs with all the background information you need to plan your trip, including a useful walkers glossary.