Volcans d'Auvergne Natural Regional Park
Located in central France, the Auvergne Regional Park of Volcanoes counts 80 dormant volcanoes, known as the Chaine des Puys. They amount to a one-of-a-kind geological ensemble that’s comparatively youthful (the last eruptions occurred 7,000 years ago) and resembles a lunar landscape. The area is popular with paragliders, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and hikers; more than 2,100 miles of trails offer up amazing panoramas. The Puy de Dome is the highest volcano (4,800 feet), accessible via the Chemin des Muletiers 1.1-mile trail or a small train-shuttle. At the top, you’ll discover the remains of the Roman temple of Mercury.Within this pristine nature preserve also lies a natural spring from which Volvic sources its water. A filtration process through six layers of volcanic rock allows Volvic to gather naturally occurring electrolytes and minerals such as calcium and magnesium that yield a balanced pH of 7. At the Volvic village, you can get insights into the natural filtration system, while a factory visit decodes the bottling system. Consider that the first time Volvic water is in contact with air is when the bottle is unscrewed.
