High Point Holidays Walking Holidays Brochure 2016 High Point Holidays Walking Holidays Brochure 2017 | Page 50

Guided & Independent

CANTAL MOUNTAINS: The Rugged Heart of France

I

n the southern Auvergne, the Cantal massif is the
extinct remains of one of the largest volcanoes in
Europe. Erosion by ice and water has since created a series
of ridges, peaks and valleys of stunning beauty that you'll
simply never tire of. Beautiful U-shaped valleys radiate outwards defined by rugged and airy ridges that emanate from
rocky summits. The rich green mountains have a wild untamed feel.
The Cantal has a rich historical legacy through its rural
settlements and farms. The local architecture is simple yet
easy on the eye; the sturdy cottages blending seamlessly into
the mountainous backdrop. The area is also a haven for
wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, marmots, mouflon,
chamois and a host of wild flowers.

Walks: day-by-day
Day 1: Arrival – Welcome & transfer from Murat train station or agreed pick up on
guided holiday.

Day 2: Puy de Niermont
A fairly easy ascent to ease you into the week. Once you’ve climbed out of the glaciated
valley you’ll follow a picturesque ridge to the summit for fabulous 360° views, providing a
good overview of the Cantal Mountains. Afterwards, explore the unique landscape of the
Limon plateau with moors and pastures, punctuated by small hills and valleys. 6hrs, +630m

Day 3: Puy Griou
The Puy Griou is a beautiful isolated volcanic peak. Those who have a good head for heights
can go to its top for great views. Explore the beautiful Jordanne Valley and also summit Puy
Usclade for unique panoramas. 5hrs 30, +810m

Day 4: Puy Mary
A great walk that takes in the summit of the Puy Mary, the emblematic mountain of the
Cantal range. You'll climb to the Col de Cabre from your B&B before following an amazing
and dramatic ridge (pictured above) with a small section of scrambling. You’ll then ascend
the Puy Mary. The summit and descent ridge provides some of the finest views in the
Cantal. You’ll then descend an isolated glaciated valley back to your B&B. 6hrs 30, +820m

Day 5: Rest day, visit Murat or optional small walks
A chance to relax at your guest house or visit the local historic market town of Murat.

♦ Sumptuous landscape of wild and rugged
ridges, elegant peaks & glaciated valleys

♦ Exciting and dramatic walks which take

you off the well trodden paths onto rocky
ridges and airy summits

♦ A rich upland flora and fauna
♦ An important rural heritage with

picturesque well preserved villages

♦ A unique holiday, created to experience
the finest Cantal walks and landscapes

Day 6: Puy de Peyre Arse
A great day for those who enjoy aesthetic mountain routes away from the main paths. You’ll
ascend the superb, rocky north east ridge of the Puy de Peyre Arse. This is a beautiful ridge
ascending 700m, leading almost directly from the B&B to its lofty summit. After a
moderate descent you’ll scale the various summits of the Puy Bataillouse to complete this
fabulous horseshoe. 6hrs, +1050m

At a Glance
GUIDED / INDEPENDENT

Day 7: Cirque du Falgoux & Puy Tourte
A beautiful and wild ridge which follows one side of the cirque du Falgoux all the way to Puy
de Tourte opposite Puy de Mary. Great panoramic views throughout. 7hrs, +850m

Price:

Other walks: On self-guided holiday