Loop - Alagnon Valley
(2 days / 45 km)
- Murat / Le Lioran : 19.5 km - 07 hours 15 minutes
- Le Lioran / Murat : 25.5 km - 07 hours 50 minutes
A long-distance hiking trail in a volcanic setting
The GR®400 is a long-distance hiking route that crosses the Cantal volcano, the largest volcano in Europe. A trail totalling 140 km of paths between ridges and valleys at altitudes of 750 to 1855 metres. The route can be broken down into loops lasting from 2 to 8 days. From the iconic Puy Mary pyramid to the highest point of the Plomb du Cantal, between mountain passes, ridges, green pastures, remote cirques and traditional villages, the GR400 invites you on a journey into the kingdom of volcanoes.
With a diameter of approximately 70 km, the Cantal volcano offers breathtaking scenery. Here, you’ll discover unspoilt nature, punctuated by glacial valleys, peaks and ridges shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
You may also be lucky enough to spot mouflon sheep, chamois and marmots, so keep your eyes peeled!
GR400, at Puy Mary
Along the GR®400 trail, you’ll come across herds of Salers and Aubrac cows in their summer residence. They roam the mountains throughout the summer, forming an integral part of the landscape alongside the traditional mountain “buron” huts.
We recommend that you do not take a dog with you into these mountain pastures, even if it is on a lead, to avoid disturbing the herds.
GR400, cattle-breeding country
Murat, at the crossroads of the GR®400, is the ideal starting point towards the route. The town can be reached by train or by car, so you can park your car for several days close to the station, and it has all the shops and services you need to prepare for your assault on the Cantal volcano!
Town of Murat
km: 140 km
Duration: 8 days
Departure / Arrival: Murat
May to October.
Pets not recommended
GR400, Tour of the Cantalien Volcano
Voyager léger [Cantal Taxis] in Murat - Fabrice Charbonnel
voyagerleger@tva63.fr - 07 48 86 38 65
To help you prepare your route and give you peace of mind once you’re there, take a map and a climbing guidebook (topoguide) with you.
Check the weather conditions (the weather can change very quickly in the mountains!)
Take advantage of the month of June to enjoy the flowers at altitude and the period from mid-September to the end of October for the autumnal colours and the beautiful, sunny days.
Stay informed and connected to the news and tips from the Cantal Volcano !
