Saint-Cirgues-de-Jordanne

Saint-Cirgues lies halfway between Aurillac, the capital of the Cantal, and Puy Mary, the heart of the Monts du Cantal.

This charming and picturesque village is characterized by its houses built with the local dark volcanic stone, adorned with lime mortar joints.

The Roman-style church Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Juliette, dating back to the 12th century, boasts a modest exterior that hides a beautifully decorated and colorful interior.

The village is also home to three circular, signed walking routes, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape, all starting from the heart of the village.

Gorges de la Jordanne

(300 m - 2 min. walk)

Enjoy a mysterious and magnificent walk along these gorges, carved over thousands of years from the valley's volcanic rocks, reaching depths of up to 60 metres.

Carved between lush, vegetated rocks and the clear waters of the river, the 4km walk takes you from one riverbank to the other, along the old fisherman's path, crossing various wooden bridges and footbridges.

On a hot summer's day, enjoy a picnic in this unspoiled natural setting, where the sound of waterfalls and birds provides a refreshing breath of air.

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Lac des Graves

(3 km - 3 min. by car)

Just a stone's throw from the house, Lac des Graves offers a variety of water sports and outdoor activities in a magnificent setting:

  • Fishing

  • Canoeing

  • Via ferrata

  • Paddleboarding

  • Tree-top adventure

  • Horse or pony riding

  • Introduction to scuba diving

Puy Mary

(18 km - 30 min. by car)

Puy Mary, the majestic remnant of Europe's largest strato-volcano, is a true wonder of nature. Long extinct, its summit now rises to 1787 m.

Situated at the heart of the GR400 trail, whose loops wind through the Cantal mountain range, its raw beauty never fails to impress hikers.

From the Pas de Peyrol, a path leads to the summit, where a spectacular 360° view reveals the full splendour of the Cantal and Auvergne regions.

So don't wait any longer to explore it!

Aurillac

(20 km - 20 min. by car)

Although often cited as one of the coldest towns in France, don’t be fooled by preconceived ideas. Aurillac may experience harsh winters, but it also enjoys sunny summers.

Once famous for its umbrella production, the town now combines the timeless charm of a small village with the energy of a bustling metropolis.

Proud of its relaxed atmosphere, farmers' market, and numerous concerts, festivals, and sporting events, it’s sure to win you over.

Don’t miss its international street theatre festival, held throughout the city every summer.

Salers

(31 km - 45 min. by car)

Salers is a charming medieval village perched on a rocky promontory in the heart of the Monts du Cantal.

Listed as one of the "Plus beaux villages de France", it is famous for its narrow cobbled streets, lava stone houses, and beautifully carved doors.

It also gives its name to the region’s emblematic breed of cow and the pressed, raw cheese made in the surrounding mountain pastures.

The many craft shops, artists' studios, and summer events are sure to entice you to extend your stay in this picturesque village.

Le Route des Cretes

(70 km circuit starting from Saint-Cirgues)

The Route des Crêtes is a must-see in the valley. Whether by car, motorbike or bicycle, it offers breathtaking panoramas while passing through some of the region's most emblematic tourist sites.

From Saint-Cirgues, head towards the Col de Légal and Salers. As you approach the Col du Bruel, take a detour towards Tournemire to visit the Château d'Anjony. Then retrace your steps, crossing the Col du Légal and then the Col de Saint-Georges.

Don't miss the monolithic chapel at Fontanges,before continuing on to Salers. Wander through the picturesque streets of the village before leaving it on the ridge towards the Col de Néronne and then the climb up to the Pas de Peyrol.

Finally, Puy Mary, the real highlight of the route, awaits your final exploration. Return quietly to the valley, passing through Mandailles-Saint-Julien and following the Jordanne until you reach Saint-Cirgues.

Other emblematic sites

And there's more! Other emblematic sites of Cantal await you:

  • Castle of Tournemire (16 km - 25 min.)

  • Fontanges Chapel (26 km - 40 min.)

  • Castle of Pesteils (32 km - 40 min.)

  • Garabit Viaduct (72 km - 1h15)

It is advisable to check the opening and visiting hours of the castles in advance.