The Cantal volcanoes, also known as the Cantal massif, represent a remarkable mountain range located in the heart of the Massif Central, in the Auvergne volcanoes regional natural park.
This massif, which constitutes an emblematic natural region of Auvergne, is formed from the remains of the largest stratovolcano visible in Europe. It was formed around 13 million years ago. Over time, it has been largely shaped by erosion phenomena caused by rivers and glaciers.
The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park
The Cantal Volcanoes occupy a central place among the five natural regions that make up the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park. They extend largely over the department of Cantal, hence their name, within the Auvergne region.
One and only Statovolcano
The Cantal massif is a stratovolcano of remarkable magnitude in Europe, with a generally circular shape and a diameter oscillating between 50 and 70 km. Its highest point is at Plomb du Cantal, at 1,855 meters above sea level. Glaciers have largely contributed to shaping the landscape by digging valleys, thus creating exceptional areas.
The summits of the Cantal Volcanoes
Today, the Cantal mountains have several emblematic peaks, including:
- Puy Mary 1,783 meters, classified as a Grand National Site;
- Plomb du Cantal 1,855 meters, the highest point in the department;
- Puy Griou, altitude 1,690 meters;
- Puy Chavaroche, culminating at 1,736 meters;
- the Puy de Peyre-Arse, 1,806 meters above sea level;
- the Puy de Seycheuse 1,647 meters.
The Cantal volcanoes, witnesses to a fascinating geological history, continue to attract nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, offering spectacular landscapes and remarkable biodiversity to discover.
