It is the largest natural lake of the Auvergne (65 hectares). The volume of water, 15m deep, is due to the dam of the valley of La Veyre, mainly brought about by the flow of lava emanating from the wells of Lavache some 7000 years ago. It's site and amenities contribute to making it one of the most attractive resorts in the Puys district.

It has the same origin as Lake Aydat, but very little is known about its supply of water from streams and underground springs. This is the cause for some spectacular variations in the level of the water. Surrounded by a forest, it is a haven of coolness and relaxation in the middle of the summer for the fishermen who come to its banks.

The Plateau of La Serre is the site of one of eleven largest migratory passages in France. Each year, between August and October, 250 000 to 400 000 birds coming from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, fly over the site (storks, kites, swallows…) Bird watching, nature walks, entertainment of children and games at the chalet of the League for the Protection of birds (L.O.P). Tel.: 04 73 36 39 79.

They present the aspect of a steep, wild and chaotic landscape. The bridge and the ruins of the Riberolles village, however, point to the existence of an ancient community. A paradise for trout fishers it is easily found thanks to recently installed signposts.

Splendid twin strombolian type volcanoes, their glowing red craters contrast with the blackish and puffy lava flow, which lies at their base. These 17 km long volcanic flows (called "cheires" in Auvergne dialect) extend up to Saint-Amande-Tallende and are covered with beautiful moors of broom, juniper, heather, birch, pines and hazelnut bushes. Free guided outings organized by the Regional Natural Parks of the Auvergne Volcanoes.

The Castle of La Batisse at Chanonat is a scheduled historic monument. This ancient building of the XVth century was changed into a manor house (country seat) in the XVIIIth century. It features some lovely French style gardens designed by Le Notre and water displays: fountains, ornamental lakes, jets, rockery grottos, a topiary maze, and waterfalls. The apartments, decorated with frescoes and tapestries contain furniture of the XVIth to the XVIIIth c. as well as the studio of the Auvergnat painter Jean de Chateauneuf. Visit with illuminations in the summer, by appointment. Tours for children. Phone 04 73 79 41 04.

The church of St Sidoine (Roman style) has been restored in the XIIIth c.and has on one of the capitals in the choir an inscription on which appears the name of Sidoine Appollinaire, writer and bishop of Clermont in the Vth c. who owned a villa in Aydat.

This Bénédictine Abbey was founded in 1971 in the wild site of the Gorges or La Monne. Masses in Gregorian chant and vespers. Tel.: 04 73 39 31 00.

Olloix was, a long time ago, the seat of an important command post of soldier monks (XVIIIth c.). In the church there is the recumbent figure of Odon de Montaigu, prior of the hospitallers of Auvergne. Enquiries at the Town Hall Tel.:04 73 39 32 13.

It is the only remaining part of an ancient covered alley, which originally measured 11m. long. The megalith is made up of 7 blocks of which 3 support the only remaining slab.

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