Summary
Auvergne’s capital is characterized by volcanic peaks to the north, west, and south, creating a breathtaking backdrop.
Upon arriving by car, the first prominent landmark you will notice is the cathedral, constructed from jet black igneous rock, which stands uniquely compared to other churches in the nation.
Clermont-Ferrand possesses a rich historical tapestry and is a vibrant university city, with an educational legacy tracing back to Blaise Pascal.
The city also serves as the headquarters of Michelin, which is renowned for much more than just tires, as you will discover at L’Aventure Michelin, a museum showcasing the evolution of this iconic French brand.
Let us examine the top attractions in Clermont-Ferrand:
1. Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port
Regarded as the most esteemed of the Romanesque churches in Auvergne, this basilica originated in the 6th century but was reconstructed approximately 500 years later.
It is advisable to observe the geometric mosaics adorning the exterior walls of the apse and radiating chapels, crafted from sandstone and volcanic rock.
Although you may require some form of explanation, taking your time to appreciate the capitals situated between the chancel and ambulatory is worthwhile, as each is rich in symbolism and narrates its own story.
These carvings represent the most well-preserved Romanesque artistry in the region, depicting biblical narratives such as the assumption and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from paradise, alongside medieval allegorical imagery.
2. Puy-de-Dôme
Located just a few kilometers west of Clermont-Ferrand, this magnificent 1,465-meter volcano is an essential addition to your itinerary.
Fortunately, you do not need to be an outdoor enthusiast to fully enjoy Puy-de-Dôme: vehicular traffic is restricted, yet an electric rack railway operates to the summit year-round, taking only 20 minutes to reach, with departures every 40 minutes off-season and every 20 minutes during the summer.
At the grassy summit, you may choose to be captivated by the views, dine at the restaurant, or explore the remnants of the Roman Temple of Mercury, located along a Roman road still frequented by hikers.
3. L’Aventure Michelin
This remarkable museum delves into the history, current status, and future of Michelin, revealing much about contemporary Clermont-Ferrand.
Michelin is the city’s largest employer and has developed entire neighborhoods for its workforce.
The museum narrates the tale of Bibendum (the Michelin Man) and guides visitors through the various innovations introduced by the company, including the first removable tire and the famous Michelin guides.
While the focus is primarily on technology and transport, the museum avoids being overly technical, featuring numerous interactive displays and archival films.
4. Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral
Clermont-Ferrand’s cathedral cannot be overlooked, especially due to its distinctive black volcanic stone, which makes it easily recognizable from the steep slopes surrounding the city.
This gothic cathedral, constructed in the 13th century, was inspired by the gothic cathedrals of northern France, but it took centuries to complete.
In the 19th century, master restorer Viollet-Le-Duc outlined plans for the finishing touches, including the western spires that rise to an impressive 108 meters.
The building showcases numerous medieval-era features, including 13th-century red and blue stained glass windows, as well as stunning frescoes in the crypt, sacristy, and ambulatory from the 12th to the 15th centuries.
5. Old Montferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, composed of two medieval cities, features two distinct historic districts.
Montferrand, located a couple of kilometers northeast of the cathedral, is best explored on foot; here, you will encounter churches, arcades, an ancient apothecary, merchants’ mansions constructed from Volvic lava, and numerous timber-framed houses from the medieval period and beyond.
During your visit, do not miss the Romanesque Maison de l’Elephant, dating back to the 13th century on Rue Kléber.
Montferrand was purposefully built as a bastide town in the 12th century and was historically antagonistic towards its neighbor, Clermont, until they were compelled to merge in the 17th century.
This union did not always foster harmony, as Montferrand sought independence four times, with the last petition occurring as recently as 1911!
6. Old Clermont
As you wander the streets surrounding the cathedral, remain attentive because numerous intriguing buildings and historical surprises abound.
One noteworthy site is located on Rue des Chaussetiers: Hôtell Savaron, a 16th-century Renaissance mansion featuring a courtyard embellished with an exquisite carving of the Savoron crest in the entrance lintel, along with three stories of covered passageways, each exhibiting cross-vaulting.
Adjacent to the cathedral is Place de la Victoire, a lively area with cafes and restaurants, where locals gather in the evenings.
During December, a Christmas market is held here, and a statue of Pope Urban II, who initiated the First Crusade from Clermont in 1095, stands prominently.
7. Musée d’Art Roger-Quilliot (MARQ)
This fine arts museum, partially situated within the former Ursuline Convent in Montferrand, is named after a former mayor.
The museum was inaugurated in 1992, and features a modern atrium spanning three stories, illuminated by a glass roof.
Among the medieval gallery lies a variety of fascinating artifacts, including a Romanesque wooden sculpture of the Virgin and Child, known as “Notre Dame d’Usson,” and capitals sourced from local churches.
The Renaissance section is home to furniture, sculptures, and a retable by the early Dutch artist Cornelis Engebrechtsz.
The Grande Galerie impresses visitors with the rich offerings of 19th-century French art, including works by Delacroix, Gustave Doré, and Camille Claudel.
8. Place de Jaude
Place de Jaude, Clermont-Ferrand’s central square, underwent a significant revitalization approximately ten years ago, coinciding with the introduction of the city’s new tram system.
The square is predominantly car-free, bordered by fountains, laurel, tulip, and American sweetgum trees, and features numerous seating areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a coffee.
Capture a photo of the bronze equestrian statue of the Gaulish leader Vercingetorix, crafted by Bartholdi, who also designed the Statue of Liberty.
Additionally, observe the northern section of the square, composed of basalt and adorned with 250 red and yellow diodes that symbolize the flow of lava.
9. Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle Henri-Lecoq
Although you may be unfamiliar with the French botanist Henri Lecoq, he is mentioned in Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species,” and throughout his life, he assembled a collection of 80,000 specimens from various global sources, including all groups of mollusks.
Lecoq served in Clermont-Ferrand as the dean of the Faculty of Sciences.
The natural history museum is located in his former mansion and now houses hundreds of thousands of minerals, insects, fossils, and plant specimens.
The original mollusks remain, but if you are intrigued by volcanic activity in Auvergne, you will find an impressive array of igneous rocks to explore.
10. Jardin Lecoq
This tranquil public garden, dedicated to Henri Lecoq, is designed in the English style, featuring winding paths, shrubs, and gentle lawns.
Additionally, it serves as a botanical garden, showcasing 25,000 varieties of seasonal plants, creating a vibrant display of color and fragrance during spring and summer.
The garden is home to 300 distinct trees, all diligently maintained by a dedicated team of gardeners.
The tranquil pond is adorned with a bridge and includes a pavilion housing a café; families with young children can also enjoy the playground located nearby.
11. Parc de Montjuzet
Situated on an elevated rise a short distance northwest of the city center, this expansive park spans 20 hectares.
The park features a fragrant Mediterranean garden replete with lavender, rosemary, olive trees, cypresses, and pines, alongside designated playground areas for younger visitors.
However, the primary reason to visit is the stunning panoramic views it offers.
You can enjoy a picnic, with the entirety of Clermont-Ferrand serving as a backdrop, while Puy-de-Dôme and other volcanic formations enhance the dramatic scenery.
12. Fontaine d’Amboise
A brief stroll from the city hall located at Place de la Poterne leads you to a historic fountain that warrants a few moments of your time.
The Fontaine d’Amboise was crafted between 1511 and 1515, adding to its historic significance, and features intriguing transitional elements.
The supporting buttresses and traceries clearly exhibit gothic influences, while the sculptures reflect Renaissance artistry.
The crowning sculpture depicts a wild man supporting the coat of arms of Jacques d’Amboise, the Bishop of Clermont who commissioned the work, wielding a club and partially clad in fleece.
Similar to the cathedral, this fountain also utilizes Volvic lava in its construction.
13. Hiking
Residing at the foot of volcanic formations, it is only natural to desire to explore the scenic trails surrounding the city that offer spectacular vistas.
Along “Les Côtes” to the north of Clermont-Ferrand, more than 40 kilometers of trails meander through the natural bowl encircling the city, ensuring you remain close to home.
The Puy-de-Dôme can indeed be ascended on foot within a few hours, while the nearby Puy de Pariou is equally marvelous and accessible via the same trail.
This extinct volcano features a pleasingly rounded crater, richly adorned with lush vegetation.
14. Mozac Abbey
If you have not yet quenched your thirst for Romanesque sculpture, the charming town of Mozac is conveniently located adjacent to Clermont-Ferrand, essentially serving as a suburb.
Mozac Abbey, originally a Romanesque edifice, suffered devastation from earthquakes in the 15th century and was subsequently reconstructed in the Gothic style using the local black Volvic stone.
Thirty remarkable sculpted capitals survived the calamity and were later rediscovered for display at the adjacent lapidary museum.
These artifacts can be traced back to the 1100s, with an additional 47 capitals located within the abbey on the church’s side.
15. Food
The culinary offerings in Auvergne are characterized by simplicity, intended to withstand the challenges of harsh winters.
This sentiment is epitomized in Truffade, which can be described as a loose pancake prepared with thinly sliced potatoes and tomme fraiche cheese.
The dish is rich, gooey, and satisfying, perfect for enjoying during snowfall.
When ordering in a restaurant, it is recommended to pair it with regional red wines such as Gaillac or Cahors.
For cheese aficionados, the Auvergne region is a veritable treasure trove, home to national favorites such as Cantal, Salers, Bleu d’Auvergne, and Saint-Nectaire.
For the best selection, visit the Marché Saint-Pierre in Clermont-Ferrand or embark on the Auvergne Cheese Trail to explore dairy farms directly.
