Located in central France, this city is known for its extinct volcanoes and Gothic cathedral. It hosts a fascinating Michelin museum and serves as a gateway to the Auvergne region.
Clermont-Ferrand, nestled in France's Auvergne region, is home to a striking black lava stone cathedral and sits near the dormant Puy de Dôme volcano. The city center showcases Gothic architecture, while the surrounding landscape bears the marks of ancient volcanic activity. You can explore the Musée d'Art Roger-Quilliot, stroll through the Jardin Lecoq, and savor local dishes like truffade. Clermont-Ferrand also hosts one of the world's major short film festivals annually.
Exploring Place de Jaude
Place de Jaude is the main square of Clermont-Ferrand. Cafes, shops, and restaurants line this large open space. In the center stands a statue of Vercingetorix, the Gallic chieftain who defeated Julius Caesar's legions nearby in 52 BC. The square is a good starting point for exploring the city. You can sit at a cafe terrace or observe the different architectural styles of the surrounding buildings.
The Distinctive Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Cathedral
The Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Cathedral is visible from many parts of Clermont-Ferrand. Built entirely from black lava stone, this Gothic cathedral took over 140 years to complete. Inside, stained glass windows create colorful light patterns. You can climb the Bayette tower for views over the city and surrounding volcanoes. The cathedral's dark exterior creates a strong contrast with the lighter buildings around it.
Ascending Puy de Dôme
Puy de Dôme, the highest volcano in the Chaîne des Puys range, is a short drive from the city center. You can reach the summit by hiking or taking a train ride. At the top, the ruins of a Roman temple stand next to modern facilities including a visitor center and restaurant. On clear days, the view extends for miles across the volcanic landscape. Paragliders often launch from the summit, gliding over the surrounding peaks.
Discovering L'Aventure Michelin
L'Aventure Michelin tells the story of the tire company that started in Clermont-Ferrand. The museum covers over a century of tire innovation and Michelin's impact on transportation. Exhibits include vintage vehicles, such as the Michelin railcar from the 1930s and early aircraft. Interactive displays demonstrate the evolution of road travel. The museum illustrates how this local company grew into a global brand.
Relaxing in Jardin Lecoq
Jardin Lecoq is a green space in the city center. This English-style garden covers 5 hectares. You can walk along winding paths, past flowerbeds and uncommon tree species. The garden includes a pond, sculptures, and benches. It's a good spot for a picnic or reading. The garden's appearance changes with the seasons, from spring flowers to autumn leaves.
Attending the International Short Film Festival
The Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival takes place in late January or early February. Filmmakers and cinema fans from many countries come to this event. The festival screens hundreds of short films in various categories, including animation, documentary, and experimental works. Outside the festival dates, you can visit the La Jetée Resource Centre to explore their archive of over 42,000 short films. This event has made Clermont-Ferrand an important location for short film.
Tasting Local Specialties
Clermont-Ferrand's cuisine is shaped by its mountainous location. Truffade is a local dish made of potatoes and cheese, often served with cured ham. Another regional food is pounti, a savory cake containing prunes, herbs, and sometimes meat. The area produces several cheese types, including Saint-Nectaire and Bleu d'Auvergne. You can pair your meal with Côtes d'Auvergne wine, grown on nearby volcanic soils. Many restaurants in the old town serve traditional Auvergnat dishes, allowing you to taste regional flavors.
