An afternoon in Puy Mary

immersion in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes

If you’re looking to spend an afternoon in the heart of the Cantal: head for Puy Mary! Classified as a Grand Site de France, this emblematic summit of the Monts du Cantal offers a unique experience combining nature, discovery and relaxation.

Here’s our guide to a successful getaway!

1 Arrival at Pas de Peyrol pass

The starting point is the Col du Pas de Peyrol, the highest road pass in the Auvergne, at an altitude of 1,589 meters.

Here you’ll find a parking lot and a site house offering information on Puy Mary and the département.

Discover

For safety reasons, the access roads to the pass are closed every winter – generally from the first snowfall in November to April, depending on weather conditions.

Parking at the pass is not free in summer. However, shuttle buses are available from mid-July to the end of August.

2. Climb to the top

To reach the summit, you’ll have to follow the 1.8 km marked trail. The climb takes around 40 minutes, depending on your physical condition. The path is well-maintained and equipped with steps. Keep your eyes peeled for emblematic species such as gentian.

At the 1,783-metre summit, you’ll find an orientation table with a panoramic view of the various valleys. Because of the altitude, the weather changes very quickly, so cover up.

3. Gourmet break at the pass

After the effort, the comfort! At the bottom of Puy Mary, you can stop for a moment at the restaurant. Auvergne specialities based on local produce – truffade, charcuterie, blueberry tart, etc. Opposite the restaurant, you’ll find the site house store.

This is your chance to take home a souvenir – books, maps, local products.

4. Explore the surrounding area

If you want to extend your outing, other hiking trails are available at the foot of Puy Mary. You’ll discover even more new landscapes…

Marked trails

An unforgettable moment

To climb Puy Mary is to embrace the soul of the Cantal, with its grandiose landscapes and breathtaking emotions – an unmissable experience for lovers of nature and altitude.