Imagine walking with your dog through ancient volcanoes, discovering lakes surrounded by forests and ending the day in a medieval village filled with characterful stone houses and narrow streets. In Auvergne, France, you can combine all these experiences in a trip dedicated to nature, discovery and the joy of exploring new places with your best friend.
Located in the heart of the Massif Central, this region is known for its volcanic landscapes, mountain lakes, high-altitude pastures and traditional villages. You can plan hikes lasting several hours, opt for short walks beside the water or explore the historic centre of a traditional village.
However, travelling with a dog requires some planning. Altitude, trail elevation gain, livestock and access rules vary from one place to another. That’s why this guide focuses on locations and routes whose official tourism information confirms that dogs are allowed, while highlighting the relevant conditions.
Why Visit Auvergne with Your Dog?
Auvergne is an excellent choice if you prefer outdoor holidays away from large cities and overcrowded destinations.
Experiences you can include in your trip range from:
- Volcanic hikes: Follow trails between volcanic cones, forests and pastures.
- Lakeside walks: Discover peaceful landscapes without having to tackle demanding hikes every day.
- Historic villages: Explore medieval streets, stone houses and small squares.
- Mountain scenery: Enjoy panoramic views across the Massif Central and the Massif du Sancy.
- Days at different paces: Alternate between long hikes, short walks and visits to traditional villages.
One of the advantages of travelling around the region with your dog is that you can adapt your itinerary to their pace. You don’t need to tackle a demanding hike every day to enjoy the scenery.
1. Chaîne des Puys: Discover Auvergne’s Volcanic Landscapes
The Chaîne des Puys is one of Auvergne’s most iconic landscapes. This chain of volcanoes, characterised by cones, craters and vegetation-covered slopes, offers plenty of opportunities for hiking.
It’s a particularly interesting area if you enjoy exploring natural trails and seeing how volcanic activity has shaped the landscape.
To explore this area with your dog, consider choosing a marked route around Puy de Dôme. There are shorter alternatives as well as trails that require several hours of walking.
Recommended Route: Tour du Puy de Dôme
Distance: 10 km
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Official difficulty rating: Moderate
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Col de Ceyssat car park
This route circles Puy de Dôme and crosses woodland and high-altitude pastures. Along the way, you’ll enjoy different views of the largest volcano in the chain and Puy du Pariou.
The walk allows you to discover the landscape without limiting yourself to the climb to the summit. It’s an interesting option if you want to spend a few hours in the mountains and explore different sides of this volcanic region.
The route is marked in yellow, and dogs are allowed but must remain on a lead because of the presence of flocks.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 3 hours
- Terrain: ⛰️ Woodland paths, pastures and mountain trails
- Ideal for: 🥾 Hikers accustomed to walks lasting several hours
- Family-friendly: ⚠️ Consider the distance and children’s fitness levels
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead; a reasonable level of stamina is needed for a 10 km hike
- Highlights: 🌋 Puy de Dôme · Puy du Pariou · volcanic landscapes
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Hikes combining nature, panoramic views and geological discovery.
Important notes: Livestock and livestock guardian dogs may be present, so keep your dog under control. Bring enough water, rain protection and clothing suitable for the altitude. Check for temporary trail closures before setting off.
Route details and source: Tour du Puy de Dôme — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme.
2. Puy de Dôme: Climb One of France’s Best-Known Volcanoes
Puy de Dôme is one of the region’s most recognisable landmarks. From the summit, you can admire the Chaîne des Puys and an extensive landscape of volcanic formations.
If you enjoy hikes with panoramic rewards at the end, this is an experience worth considering. However, the ascent requires more effort than a leisurely walk beside a lake.
Recommended Route: Ascent of Puy de Dôme via the Chemin des Muletiers
Distance: Approximately 6 km, return
Duration: Around 1 hour 50 minutes from Col de Ceyssat, according to the tourism information
Official difficulty rating: Moderate
Elevation gain: Approximately 365 m
Route type: Out and back
Starting point: Col de Ceyssat
The Chemin des Muletiers is a historic path that climbs in a series of zigzags to the summit of Puy de Dôme. The ascent is relatively short, but the elevation gain makes it physically demanding.
The official tourism information confirms that dogs are allowed on a lead. This route may be suitable for dogs accustomed to mountain walks, provided they’re fit enough for both the ascent and the descent.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate
- Duration: ⏱️ Around 1 hour 50 minutes from Col de Ceyssat, according to the tourism information
- Terrain: ⛰️ Mountain path with a steep ascent
- Ideal for: 🥾 Hikers with a reasonable level of fitness
- Family-friendly: ⚠️ Best suited to children accustomed to walking
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead; not ideal for dogs with low activity levels or mobility difficulties
- Highlights: 🌄 Puy de Dôme summit · panoramic views across the volcanic chain
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Reaching a summit and admiring the scenery from above.
Important notes: Avoid climbing during the hottest part of the day, and don’t underestimate the descent. Wind and temperatures at the summit may differ from conditions at the starting point. Check the trail status before travelling, as temporary safety closures may affect access.
Source: Le Puy de Dôme — Route from Col de Ceyssat.
3. Lac de Guéry: A Mountain Lake Surrounded by Volcanic Scenery
Lac de Guéry, located at an altitude of around 1,250 metres, is one of Auvergne’s best-known mountain lakes. The surrounding landscape combines pastures, forests, waterfalls and volcanic rock formations.
It’s a good choice for a day in nature with your dog, as you can opt for a short walk beside the lake or a longer route across the plateau.
Recommended Route: Le Sentier du Guéry
Distance: 4.5 km
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Easy
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Col de Guéry, near the Terra Alta chalet
The route allows you to discover the lake, admire waterfalls and walk through woodland and pastures. At various points, you’ll find views of Lac de Guéry, the Massif du Sancy and the Tuillière and Sanadoire rock formations.
At 4.5 km, it’s an interesting alternative if you want to enjoy a walk without dedicating the entire day to the activity.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Terrain: 🌲 Woodland trails, pastures and paths with some uphill sections
- Ideal for: 👥 Those looking for a moderately short hike
- Family-friendly: ✅ An option to consider for families accustomed to walking
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead
- Highlights: 💧 Lac de Guéry · waterfalls · basalt formations · views of the Sancy
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Mountain lakes and hikes with varied scenery.
Important notes: You’re in a high-altitude area where the weather can change quickly. Flocks and livestock guardian dogs may be present, so stay alert. Bring water for your dog and avoid approaching grazing animals.
Parking at Col de Guéry may be subject to a fee during certain periods, including part of the summer season, weekends and public holidays. Check the arrangements before arriving and use the designated car park, as parking along the road beside the lake is prohibited.
Sources: Le Sentier du Guéry — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme · Practical Information for Lac de Guéry.
A Longer Alternative: Le Plateau du Guéry
Distance: 14 km
Duration: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Moderate
Route type: Circular
If you’re looking for a longer hike, the Plateau du Guéry route crosses high-altitude landscapes and passes several scenic viewpoints, including Puy Gros and Banne d’Ordanche.
This is a different experience from a simple walk beside the lake: it requires greater stamina, attention to the terrain and proper preparation.
- Pet-friendly: Dogs allowed on a lead.
- Ideal for: Adult dogs accustomed to hikes lasting several hours.
- Important notes: The route crosses pastures and mountainous terrain. Bring water, suitable food for a long outing, and equipment for rain and cold weather.
4. Lac de Servières: A Short Walk Around an Ancient Volcanic Crater
Lac de Servières is a volcanic lake situated at an altitude of around 1,200 metres. Surrounded by coniferous forest and pastures, it’s an interesting option if you prefer a peaceful walk.
It’s also an alternative for days when you don’t want to tackle a long hike or when your dog needs a more relaxed pace.
Recommended Route: Circuit Around Lac de Servières
Distance: 2 km
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Easy
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Car park on the D983, beside the lake
The trail circles the lake, allowing you to appreciate the shoreline and surrounding forest. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Monts Dore.
Its short distance makes this route particularly appealing for an outing without major physical demands, although you should still consider the ground conditions and your dog’s abilities.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 50 minutes
- Terrain: 🌲 Lakeside path and woodland areas
- Ideal for: 👥 Those looking for a short walk
- Family-friendly: ✅ A simple option for a family outing, depending on ground conditions
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead
- Highlights: 💧 Volcanic lake · forest · views of the Monts Dore
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Short walks in peaceful natural surroundings.
Important notes: Swimming and lighting fires are prohibited. Stay on marked paths and prevent your dog from disturbing wildlife or entering sensitive vegetation. As the lake is at altitude, bring suitable clothing even if the weather seems pleasant where you’re staying.
Source: Le Lac de Servières — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme.
5. Massif du Sancy: Mountains, Plateaus and More Demanding Hikes
The Massif du Sancy offers some of Auvergne’s most impressive mountain scenery. Here, you’ll find valleys, high-altitude pastures, forests and panoramic views across the Massif Central.
To explore this area with your dog, prioritise routes whose official tourism information explicitly confirms that pets are allowed. The presence of protected natural areas nearby doesn’t mean that every mountain path has the same access rules.
For a more complete mountain hike, the Plateau du Guéry route described above is a good alternative. It combines altitude, pastures and panoramic views without requiring a visit to an area where dogs are restricted.
What to Keep in Mind
- Choose the distance carefully: 14 km can mean several hours of effort for a dog.
- Consider the elevation gain: Ascents and descents can be more demanding than the distance suggests.
- Watch out for flocks: Keep your dog on a lead and don’t approach livestock.
- Check the weather forecast: Wind, rain, fog and snow can make a trail more difficult.
- Bring enough water: Don’t assume you’ll find water sources along the route.
If your dog isn’t accustomed to mountain hikes, start with a short trail, such as the circuit around Lac de Servières, before choosing a walk lasting several hours.
6. Lac Chambon: A Walk Between the Lake, Forest and Murol
Lac Chambon is an excellent option if you want to combine nature with cultural discovery. The landscape includes the lake, wetland areas and views of the Massif du Sancy. Nearby, the village of Murol adds a historical dimension to your outing.
If you want to enjoy the region without climbing a summit, this route is an interesting alternative.
Recommended Route: Le Lac Chambon
Distance: 7.5 km
Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Easy
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Eastern beach of Lac Chambon, near the pedestrian crossing
The trail starts by the lake and heads towards Murol. Along the way, it passes the area around the basalt hill associated with the medieval castle and Dent du Marais, a volcanic rock formation offering views of the lake and mountains.
It’s a varied walk, with sections beside the water, through the village and along mountain paths.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
- Terrain: 🌿 Lakeside paths, steps and uphill sections
- Ideal for: 👥 Those who want to combine nature and heritage
- Family-friendly: ⚠️ Consider the steps and the total distance
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead
- Highlights: 💧 Lac Chambon · Murol · Dent du Marais · views of the Sancy
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Varied walks combining natural scenery with a little cultural exploration.
Important notes: Despite its official easy rating, the route includes steps and uphill sections. Assess your dog’s abilities before setting off and bring enough water. Permission to walk beside the lake doesn’t mean swimming is allowed in every area.
Source: Le Lac Chambon — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme.
7. Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise: Explore a Medieval Village on Foot
Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise is one of the most interesting places to include in an itinerary around the Sancy region. Its historic centre preserves narrow streets, stone houses and traditional buildings that reveal a different side of Auvergne.
After a mountain hike, you can slow down and explore the village with your dog, wandering through the streets and admiring the architecture.
The village is also the starting point for a hike combining heritage, woodland, streams and volcanic scenery.
Recommended Route: La Couze et Lac Pavin
Distance: 12.5 km
Duration: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Moderate
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Pré-Chabrat car park, in Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise
This route combines a visit to the medieval village with natural landscapes. The trail follows the Couze Pavin, passes waterfalls and climbs through woodland to areas with views of Lac Pavin and the Massif du Sancy.
Along the way, you’ll also discover the Goyon ferruginous spring and views of Besse’s historic centre.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
- Terrain: 🌲 Woodland, rural paths, waterside sections and uphill stretches
- Ideal for: 🥾 Hikers accustomed to walks lasting several hours
- Family-friendly: ⚠️ Best suited to children accustomed to walking
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead
- Highlights: 🏘️ Besse · Couze Pavin · waterfalls · Lac Pavin · views of the Sancy
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Combining a historic village with a full day of outdoor exploration.
Important notes: The route crosses pastures and mountainous terrain. Keep your dog on a lead and respect livestock. Bring water and check the weather forecast before setting off.
If you prefer to explore the village alone, you can leave the longer hike for another day and wander through the historic centre at a more relaxed pace.
Source: La Couze et Lac Pavin — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme.
8. Saint-Nectaire: Heritage, Walks and Regional Flavours
Saint-Nectaire is known for its heritage and for the cheese of the same name, one of the region’s most famous local specialities.
It’s a good stop for a more relaxed day, especially if you want to alternate hiking with visits to traditional villages. You can explore the centre, admire historic buildings and look for a dog-friendly establishment where you can take a break with your companion.
If you plan to visit monuments, shops or restaurants, check their pet policies in advance. Being allowed to walk through the streets doesn’t mean every indoor venue accepts dogs.
Tip: Combine your visit to Saint-Nectaire with a hike suited to your dog’s abilities at another point during the day. Avoid packing in several demanding activities if your companion has already completed a long route.
Another Trail for Dog Owners: Walk Around Lac d’Aydat
If you’d like to add another lake to your itinerary, Lac d’Aydat is worth considering. This volcanic lake is surrounded by green landscapes and features a wetland area rich in wildlife and plant life.
Recommended Route: Autour du Lac d’Aydat
Distance: 6.5 km
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Official difficulty rating: Easy
Route type: Circular
Starting point: Sauteyras, beside the lake
The route lets you admire the lake, observe the volcanic landscape and cross boardwalks through the Aydat wetland. It’s a good option if you want a longer walk than the circuit around Lac de Servières but don’t fancy a demanding mountain hike.
At a Glance
- Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
- Duration: ⏱️ Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
- Terrain: 🌿 Lakeside paths and boardwalks through the wetland
- Ideal for: 👥 Those looking for a walk of moderate length
- Family-friendly: ✅ An option to consider for families accustomed to walking
- Pet-friendly: 🐾 Dogs allowed on a lead
- Highlights: 💧 Lac d’Aydat · wetland · views of the volcanoes
- You’ll love it if you enjoy: Lakeside walks with varied natural scenery.
Important notes: Keep your dog on a lead, respect wildlife and stay on marked paths. Bring water and check the trail conditions if it has been raining.
Source: Autour du Lac d’Aydat — Puy-de-Dôme Tourisme.
How to Choose the Best Trail for Your Dog
Your choice shouldn’t depend on distance alone. A dog accustomed to hiking may cover several kilometres comfortably, while another may need frequent breaks, less elevation gain and more even ground.
Before choosing a route, consider:
- Distance: Start with shorter walks if your dog isn’t used to walking for several hours.
- Elevation gain: Ascents and descents require more effort than flat walks.
- Terrain: Rocks, steps and uneven paths can make progress more difficult.
- Temperature: Avoid strenuous hikes during the hottest part of the day.
- Water and shade: Don’t assume you’ll find drinking water or cool spots along the route.
- Age and fitness: Adapt the distance to your companion’s abilities.
- Local rules: Always confirm that dogs are allowed on your chosen route and whether they must remain on a lead.
Don’t forget to consider the descent. Even if your dog manages the climb without any apparent difficulty, they may experience discomfort in their paws or joints on the way back.
Auvergne’s Lakes: What to Know Before Your Visit
Volcanic lakes are among the region’s main attractions, but each location has its own rules.
On the routes described in this guide, dogs are permitted under the conditions specified in the relevant tourism information. However, permission to walk beside a lake doesn’t necessarily mean your dog can swim or roam freely along the shoreline.
Before visiting a lake:
- Check the rules regarding dogs.
- Keep your companion on a lead where required.
- Respect areas with sensitive vegetation.
- Don’t let your dog chase birds or other animals.
- Prevent your dog from drinking lake water, especially if there are warnings about water quality.
- Bring fresh drinking water for your dog.
At Lac de Guéry, swimming, diving and boating are prohibited. Swimming is also prohibited at Lac de Servières. Plan your visit around enjoying the scenery and walking rather than water-based activities.
What to Pack When Travelling with Your Dog
A well-prepared backpack helps you avoid unexpected problems and makes walks more comfortable.
Essential equipment:
- A sturdy lead and a well-fitting harness.
- Enough water for you and your dog.
- A portable drinking bowl.
- Suitable food and treats.
- Waste bags.
- A towel to clean muddy paws and fur.
- A basic pet first-aid kit.
- Up-to-date identification and your vet’s contact details.
- A blanket or bed for resting.
- Rain and cold-weather protection, if needed.
- A torch or headlamp for walks that may finish later than expected.
For longer hikes: Carry extra water, plan regular breaks and check your dog’s paws frequently. If you notice excessive tiredness, pain, difficulty walking or signs of overheating, stop the activity and find a safe place to rest.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Auvergne with Your Dog?
Spring, summer and early autumn can all be good times to explore the trails, but each season has its advantages and limitations.
Spring: The landscape turns green, and temperatures can be pleasant for walking. However, some paths may be muddy, and weather conditions can be unpredictable.
Summer: A good time to explore the lakes and mountains, provided you avoid the hottest hours. Expect more visitors in popular areas, and check parking arrangements in advance.
Autumn: Forests take on rich colours, making walks particularly beautiful. Days are shorter, and temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.
Winter: Snow, ice, fog and wind can make trails more difficult. Some routes may be temporarily closed or not recommended. Check conditions before setting off and avoid mountain hikes if it’s not safe to proceed.
For most of the walks described here, choose a day with stable weather, bring clothing suitable for the altitude and keep your itinerary flexible.
Respect Nature and Local Wildlife
Auvergne’s natural landscapes deserve to be protected. During your walks, collect your dog’s waste, stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
In grazing areas, keep your dog on a lead and don’t approach flocks. If you encounter livestock guardian dogs, give them space and follow local safety recommendations.
It’s also important to respect fences, take all rubbish with you and prevent your dog from entering sensitive vegetation. Access rules can vary between nearby routes, so always check the official information for the specific trail you intend to follow.
How to Plan Your Trip Around Auvergne
To make the most of the region, organise your days by area and avoid unnecessary long journeys between activities.
One option is to plan your trip as follows:
- Day 1 — Chaîne des Puys: Choose a hike around Puy de Dôme.
- Day 2 — Puy de Dôme: Climb on foot if your dog is accustomed to elevation gain.
- Day 3 — Lac de Guéry: Choose the short circuit or the longer plateau hike.
- Day 4 — Lac de Servières: Set aside time for a peaceful walk around the lake.
- Day 5 — Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise and Lac Pavin: Combine the medieval village with the La Couze et Lac Pavin route if you’re prepared for the 12.5 km distance.
- Day 6 — Lac Chambon and Murol: Explore the lake scenery and the village.
- Day 7 — Lac d’Aydat or Saint-Nectaire: Finish your trip with a more relaxed outing.
You don’t have to follow the entire itinerary. Choose the places that best suit your dog’s fitness, the time you have available and the location of your accommodation.
Before setting off, check access rules, the weather forecast, trail conditions and your accommodation’s pet policy. Always have a shorter alternative in mind for days when the weather deteriorates or your dog needs a rest.
