Auvergne is a region situated in central France, it is made up of the departments Puy-de-Dôme, Cantal, Haute-Loire and Allier. Auvergne has a climate of very cold winters with plenty of snow and hot dry summers.

The Auvergne region is popular with tourists who come to visit its beautiful landscape of dormant volcanoes and skiers' who come for the winter snow.

Between the volcanoes the landscape is dotted with fairy tale style mediaeval castles, lakes, glacial valleys and dense forest. Auvergne is a natural haven for outdoor activities of all kinds and due to the volcanic nature of the landscape there are numerous hot water springs and spa towns.

The Auvergne is also famous for its peasant style of cuisine most notably its cheeses, salted hams and sausages. Regional wines include Côtes d'Auvergne made from the gamay grape and Chanturgue which is traditionally used in recipes for coq au vin. Auvergne also boasts the oldest vineyard in France the Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule which is located in the department of Allier.

Puy de Dôme

This departments sits in the Massif Central a mountainous area that boasts over 80 volcanic craters. Puy de Dôme is one of the most visited areas in the Auvergne region, notable towns include Clermont-Ferrand capital of the region and one of the oldest cities in France it is also a popular ski resort.

Cantal

Famous for its cheese of the same name, it is named after the Plomb du Cantal an ancient volcanic mountain that reaches a height of 1,855.

Haute-Loire

Notable towns include Brioude an old town with narrow streets and pretty fountains which is set 1467 ft above sea level. To the east of the town lies the Parc Naturel Regional Livradois-Forez which is one of the largest national parks in France.

Allier

Allier lies in the north of the Auvergne region, its landscape is diverse with forests to its north and vineyards in its center. Notable towns include Vichy which is famous for its natural spring water and thermal baths.

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