Le Puy-en-Velay and the Auvergne volcanoes: a van adventure in the heart of Auvergne

Between medieval towns and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, Auvergne is the perfect playground for van-lifers. Discover five must-see spots between Le Puy-en-Velay and the volcanoes.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 15 July 2026

Auvergne is a region where the earth still rumbles beneath your feet, where hilltop villages whisper centuries of history, and where every twist in the road brings a new surprise. From Le Puy-en-Velay, the starting point of the Camino to Santiago de Compostela, to the sleeping giants of the Massif Central, we’re taking you on winding roads past volcanic rock and crater lakes. Ready to fill your travel journal?

Notre-Dame Cathedral of Le Puy-en-Velay

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Romanesque cathedral towers over the city from its volcanic rock. As the starting point of the Via Podiensis pilgrimage route to Compostela, it’s a place steeped in spirituality and history.

Where to sleep nearby

Cathedral parking Le Puy-en-Velay Parking ★ 3.8 In the city centre, 2 minutes’ walk from the cathedral. Free, public toilets, quiet at night. › Parking at aquatic center Le Puy-en-Velay Parking ★ 4.3 Large, quiet car park near the aquatic centre. Free, ideal for a peaceful night, 17 minutes’ walk away. › Route de Champ Rouet, Polignac Motorhome area ★ 4.6 Free aire at the foot of Polignac Castle. 30 grass pitches, services available, 44 minutes’ walk away. › Camping d'Audinet Campsite ★ 4.4 Shaded campsite by the Loire, 5 km from Le Puy. Large pitches (100 m²) and greenway access. › Camping-Car Park Le Puy-en-Velay Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Paid aire in the city centre with cathedral views. Stabilised pitches, 10 minutes’ walk, €15 per night. ›

Rocher Corneille and the Statue of Notre-Dame de France

A symbol of Le Puy, this volcanic rock offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings. The golden iron statue of the Virgin has watched over travellers since 1860.

Where to sleep nearby

Cathedral parking Le Puy-en-Velay Parking ★ 3.8 Free central car park at the foot of the cathedral, public toilets. 3 minutes’ walk, quiet at night. › Route de Champ Rouet, Polignac Motorhome area ★ 4.6 Free aire with services, 30 grass pitches. 42 minutes’ walk away, fortress views. › Camping d'Audinet Campsite ★ 4.4 5-hectare shaded campsite by the Loire, large pitches. 45 minutes’ walk away, absolute peace. › Parking at aquatic center Le Puy-en-Velay Parking ★ 4.3 Large aquatic centre car park, quiet night. 18 minutes’ walk away, no services. › Camping-Car Park Le Puy-en-Velay Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Paid aire with panoramic cathedral views. 10 minutes’ walk, asphalt pitches. ›

Puy de Dôme

This iconic volcano, accessible on foot or by rack railway, stands at 1,465 metres. From its summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama over the Chaîne des Puys.

Where to sleep nearby

Forest parking Ceyssat Parking ★ 4.5 Forest clearing at the foot of Puy de Dôme, 26 minutes’ walk. Absolute peace, 6-8 spaced pitches. › Maison Lassalas Campsite ★ 4.6 Family-friendly 3-star campsite, heated pool. 8 minutes’ drive, warm welcome. › Camping-Car Park Saint-Ours Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Motorhome aire 5 minutes from Vulcania. €16 per night, large, quiet pitches. › Spacious motorhome area Orcines Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Tarmac aire 5 minutes from Puy de Dôme. €7 per night, full services (water, electricity). › Parking near the chapel with view of Puy de Dôme Saint-Gènes-Champanelle Parking ★ 4.4 Car park with stunning Puy de Dôme views. 45 minutes’ walk, overnight stay permitted under conditions. ›

Puy de Sancy

The highest point in the Massif Central, this dormant volcano is a hiker’s paradise. Its lunar landscapes and high-altitude lakes make it a must-visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Aire de bivouac de Chastreix-Sancy Motorhome area ★ 4.6 360-degree views at the foot of Puy de Sancy, full services. €12 per night, 38 minutes’ walk away. › Camping de la Grande Cascade Campsite ★ 4.6 Family campsite at 1,200 m, stunning views. Spacious pitches, absolute peace, 5 minutes’ drive. › Alpine parking Chambon-sur-Lac Parking ★ 4.6 Free alpine car park, Lac Chambon views. Large tarmac area, 5 minutes’ drive. › Quiet forest edge parking La Tour-d'Auvergne Parking ★ 4.7 Isolated forest, max 2-3 pitches. Flat, shaded ground, 7 minutes’ drive. › Aire de la Biche Motorhome area ★ 3.8 €20 per night, at the foot of Super-Besse slopes. Near lake and town centre, 5 minutes’ drive. ›

Lac Pavin

This crater lake, with its deep blue waters, is one of France’s youngest volcanoes. A walk around its shores is a must for nature lovers.

Where to sleep nearby

Forest nature parking Le Verdier Parking ★ 4.6 Shaded, spacious forest, 5 minutes’ drive. Absolute peace, drivable track. › Aire de la Biche Motorhome area ★ 3.8 700 m from the lake and Super-Besse, €20 per night. Shaded areas, electricity available. › Breathtaking view parking Picherande Parking ★ 4.7 Panoramic mountain views, 6 minutes’ drive. Isolated at altitude, rough track. › Camping Bois de Gravière Campsite ★ 3.5 Wooded campsite 5 km away, pool and activities. Heated toilets, ideal for families. › Lake Bourdouze motorhome parking Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise Parking ★ 4.5 360-degree views at 1,200 m altitude, 46 minutes’ walk. 8 gravel pitches, bin on site. ›

Vulcania

This volcanic exploration park combines education and entertainment with immersive experiences. Perfect for learning about the formation of Auvergne’s volcanoes as a family.

Where to sleep nearby

Motorhome area under video surveillance Mazaye Motorhome area ★ 5 New aire in nature, 5 stabilised pitches. €12 per night, 6 minutes’ drive (5 km). › Forest parking Ceyssat Parking ★ 4.5 Remote forest clearing, 6-8 motorhomes. Free, 5 minutes’ drive (4 km). › Camping-Car Park Saint-Ours Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Close to Vulcania, spacious and quiet. €16 per night, 9 minutes’ walk. › Parking by Lempteguy volcano Saint-Ours Parking ★ 4.4 Shaded car park near Lemptégy volcano. Free, 6 minutes’ walk. › Camping Bel Air Campsite ★ 4 Wooded family campsite, heated pool. 7 minutes’ drive (6 km), lively atmosphere. ›

See all spots on the map