Things to do in Auvergne in summer
The peak season. Swimmable lakes (Aydat, Chambon, the Allier beaches), festivals in every village, night markets on Wednesdays in Murol and Salers. Book 2 to 3 months ahead for the centre of the tourist towns.
Weather: Mild to hot (25-30°C in the lowlands, 18-22°C at altitude). Late-afternoon storms in July-August.
⚠️ Good to know: Avoid hikes with no shade between 11am and 4pm in high summer (heatwave). Head for altitude (Mont-Dore, Cézallier) if Clermont forecasts > 35°C.
The essentials
Things not to miss in Auvergne in summer
- Europavox in Clermont-Ferrand (late June)
- Aurillac Festival, street theatre (late August)
- La Chaise-Dieu Festival, classical music (second half of August)
- Lifeguarded swimming at Lac d'Aydat or Lac Chambon (Blue Flag)
- Night market in Murol on Wednesdays, Besse on Mondays
- Sunset on the Puy de Dôme or the Puy Mary
- Walk round Lac Pavin (one hour, flat path, emerald water)
- Sleep in a treehouse, a bubble or a yurt (book 2-3 months ahead)
Guides for the season
Our guides to Auvergne in summer
By mood
Things to do in Auvergne in summer
By département
Auvergne summer in 4 moods
Reading
Reading to help you plan
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Les plus beaux villages du Cantal : 7 arrêts qui valent le détour
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Top 10 hikes in the Sancy: from easy to challenging
Want to go hiking in the Sancy but don't know where to start? Here are the 10 routes we recommend to our friends, from a family stroll to a summit climb.
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