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The extinct volcano, Puy-de-Dôme is the most visited attraction of the Auvergne. Located some 10 km
from the region's lively university city of Clermont-Ferrand, there are magnificent views from the summit that is accessible by footpath or bus. There are some restrictions for private
car access. hang gliders and paragliders frequently fly from the volcano.
There are a number of ski resorts in Auvergne’s mountains the largest Mont Dore, Super-Besse and Alpe d'Huez with smaller resorts including Chastreix-Sancy, Chambon-des-Neiges and Saint-Anthème/Prabouré .
The Auvergne is noted for its thermal spas, Vichy catering for thousands of holiday visitors each year, keen to take the natural
therapeutic waters, Chaudes-Aigues has the hottest natural springs in Europe and the pretty town
of Néris-les-Bains has some interesting history once you can drag yourself away from the pampering of the spa.
Of the innumerable historic buildings of the Auvergne, the 13th Cathedral of Notre Dame at Le Puy, the Parentignat chateau and
(as much for its history as the birthplace of the Bourbon kings), the remains of
l'Archambault chateau, should be included in your sightseeing wherever practical.
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