Tourism and sightseeing in Royat

• Discover the Puy de Dôme and the Chaîne des Volcans, the European Park of Volcanism, ski resorts and a golf course set in stunning surroundings - a whole world of outdoor pursuits, just minutes from our hotel.
• The Chaîne des Puys: a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Auvergne's breathtaking string of volcanoes that have been ‘dormant’ for at least 8,000 years - the iconic Chaîne des Puys - was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site on Monday 2 July 2018. This landmark decision was finalised during the 42nd session of the World Heritage Committee held in Manama, Bahrain.

Beyond its 80 volcanic structures - ranging from 8,400 to 95,000 years old - the prestigious classification also honours the Limagne Fault, a 35-million-year-old geological wonder plunging to depths of up to 3,000 metres. According to UNESCO, "The site exceptionally illustrates the phenomenon of continental breakup - or rifting - which represents one of the five principal stages of plate tectonics.” Situated just west of Clermont-Ferrand within the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, this ‘tectonic hotspot’ brings together an exceptionally well-preserved collection of pure-shaped, minimally eroded summits spanning a north-south axis roughly 32 kilometres long and 4 kilometres wide.

Whether shaped as cones, domes or craters, these young volcanoes are considered ‘dormant’. Among these iconic natural marvels are the Puy de Dôme - the highest peak at 1,465 metres, which proudly gives its name to the department - and the Puy de Pariou, renowned for its textbook Strombolian-type crater.

Renowned for the sheer beauty and diversity of its landscapes, the Auvergne region offers an infinite playground of outdoor experiences. Auvergne was also named a Top 10 Destination by Lonely Planet!

Lonely Planet’s acclaimed Best in Travel Guide officially declared: "Ranked sixth, Auvergne is a hidden gem boasting glacial valleys and volcanic peaks. It is masterfully reinventing itself to welcome travellers with enhanced outdoor activities and ambitious art projects, while preserving every ounce of its authentic rural charm." This glowing accolade stands as testament to the dedication of everyone working to establish Auvergne as a world-class travel destination.

Discover the Land of the Volcanoes!

Just 35 Minutes from the Hotel… The Holy Grail for hikers and nature enthusiasts!

Nestled at the very heart of the Massif du Sancy, this magnificent glacial valley protects a rare haven of preserved flora and fauna, offering landscapes that will truly take your breath away.

• A valley born from ice and fire
• An abundance of natural springs and pristine streams
• A botanist's paradise
• Remarkable wildlife, featuring species of great conservation value

Just 15 Minutes from the Hotel… A Certified ‘Grand Site de France’

The Puy de Dôme is a magnificent natural reserve certified as a ‘Grand Site de France’. Located just a few kilometres from Clermont-Ferrand at the very heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, the Puy de Dôme stands as the highest peak of the entire Chaîne des Puys.

Rising 1,465 metres above sea level between the Limagne Plain and the Combrailles Plateau, it offers an unparalleled panoramic vantage point over Europe’s most beautiful volcanic landscape.

Treat yourself to a spectacular journey to the summit of the Chaîne des Puys, and immerse yourself in a landscape blessed with ever-changing colours and shifting natural lights.

Explore this majestic, Grand Site de France natural sanctuary and its rich variety of experiences:

• An exceptional 360-degree panoramic view over the volcanic chain
• Immersive visitor spaces
• The historical ruins of the Temple of Mercury
• Three scenic walking trails stretching across the summit
• Two gift shops
• Educational landscape information panels

A serene getaway in the very heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park.

Just 10 Minutes from the Hotel… A serene sanctuary nestled among pines, birches and vibrant wild heather.

An exceptional 18-hole, world-class championship course: ‘Les Bruyères’ (Par 72, spanning 6,495 metres from the black tees).

• Two 9-hole courses of an equally high standard add to the playing possibilities.
• 40 driving range bays, 15 of which are covered, along with 4 putting greens and bunkers, allow you to warm up or practise in a wide variety of situations, with all the usual facilities, including a high-quality pro shop.

Just 15 Minutes from the Hotel… Explore & Discover!

An extraordinary park designed for the whole family. Uncover the mysteries of our planet with a captivating full-day itinerary featuring dynamic attractions, immersive 5D films, interactive exhibits and unconventional hands-on scientific experiences.

The Vulcania Theme Park invites you to experience a thrilling journey of emotion, sensory wonder and discovery. Come face-to-face with the inner workings of the Earth, majestic volcanoes and the raw forces of nature, while celebrating the fragile beauty of our planet.

Nestled at the very heart of the Chaîne des Puys within the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, Vulcania offers a breath of fresh air in stunning natural surroundings. A truly one-of-a-kind theme park carved straight out of the volcanic bedrock with three-quarters of its structure cleverly integrated underground. Its sleek, minimalist design blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape of dormant volcanoes.

Attractions: Sacred Volcanoes/ City of Children / First Flight / Earth Machine / The Planet Unveiled / The Magic Odysee / The Angry Earth / Dragon Ride / The Great Geyser / The Awakening of the Auvergne Giants / Magma Explorer / The VolcanBul / The Tunnel of the Fiery Swarms / The Experiment Corner.

Everything comes together at Vulcania for a unique day out in a theme park unlike any other!