The Auvergne
Volcanic hills give rise to gently undulating, flowing roads cutting through lush countryside
TO SAY THAT there’s good riding in the Massif Central – the huge range of low mountains, high hills and dormant volcanoes in the heart of France – is to undersell the attraction of the region. For one thing, it’s huge so there are miles of amazing roads to explore; for another, it’s quiet, especially as you get further from the beaten track. We base our riding here around the town of Issoire, just south of Clermont-ferrand; much smaller but equally well placed. To the east are the wooded Livradois hills, to the west Puy de Dôme and the dormant volcanoes. Whichever way you go, there’s fantastic riding. Hotel tip: Le Pariou (www.hotel-pariou.com)