Best mountain peaks around Ceyssat are situated within the Chaîne des Puys-Limagne fault, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region is characterized by its volcanic landscape, offering diverse natural features. Ceyssat serves as a starting point for exploring several notable peaks. The area provides opportunities to experience the unique geology and panoramic views of the Auvergne region.
Last updated: October 16, 2026
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It's better to go up via Ceyssat and come back down via Orcines. The climb still hurts but there's less traffic and the descent is worth it 😉
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Temple construction in the 2nd century on the summit of the Puy de Dôme. The Temple of Mercury, built on the summit of the Puy de Dôme, was one of the largest mountain sanctuaries in Roman Gaul. It could be seen from a great distance, including from the city of Augustonemetum, present-day Clermont-Ferrand. The Via Agrippa, a highway from Lyon, the capital of Gaul, to Saintes on the Atlantic, allowed travelers to reach the shrine via the pilgrimage center at the Col de Ceyssat.
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Possibility of having a drink and/or something to eat just opposite the pass sign
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The Temple of Mercury on the Puy de Dôme is a Gallo-Roman temple built in the 2nd century on the summit of the Puy de Dôme to replace a 1st century temple. Excavations in 1875 and the early 20th century uncovered the ruins. In the 1st century, the Arverni decided to build a temple to Mercury in their city of Augustonemetum (now Clermont-Ferrand). In the following century, this temple in arkose, which had undoubtedly become too small to accommodate the many pilgrims who visited it, was replaced by a larger and more majestic temple in trachyte. Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_de_Mercure_(puy_de_D%C3%B4me)
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Currently under construction Phase 2, can be visited from 2024, the museum is free of charge
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During this hiking highlight we come across the remains of a temple in honor of MERKUR (in Latin: MERCURIUS) at the height of the mountain plateau, an archaeological excavation site. Dating back to ancient pre-Christian times, the deities of Roman and Greek legends in particular have been preserved in the collective memory of people in Europe to this day. MERCURY is the “messenger of the gods” in Roman mythology, and HERMES corresponds to him in Greek mythology. The following applies to both: They have the interesting combination of being the god of trade and merchants, but also of thieves.
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The region around Ceyssat is known for its volcanic peaks. Among the most popular are Puy de Dôme Summit, which is the highest peak in the Chaîne des Puys offering unparalleled panoramic views, and Puy Pariou summit and crater, famous for its distinctive crater and views of the surrounding chain.
Yes, the Puy de Dôme Summit is home to the remains of a 2nd-century Roman Temple of Mercury. This significant mountain sanctuary in Roman Gaul adds a rich historical dimension to your visit, complementing the natural beauty of the peak.
You can ascend the Puy de Dôme Summit by hiking the "Chemin des Muletiers" from the Col de Ceyssat, which features many steps. For a less strenuous option, a panoramic cable car is also available, providing access to the summit for a wider range of visitors.
While many trails offer varying difficulties, the Puy Pariou summit and crater is noted as family-friendly. The ascent to Puy de Dôme via the panoramic cable car also makes the summit accessible for families with younger children or those preferring an easier journey.
The mountain peaks around Ceyssat, particularly Puy de Dôme Summit, offer unparalleled panoramic views of the entire Chaîne des Puys, including its nearly 80 volcanoes, and the city of Clermont-Ferrand. From peaks like Puy de Côme, you can also enjoy expansive views of nearby villages and the iconic Puy de Dôme itself.
Many hiking trails are available. For instance, you can find routes like "Puy de Dôme - loop from the col de Ceyssat" or "Chemin des Muletiers – Puy de Dôme Summit loop" which start from the Col de Ceyssat or near the Puy de Dôme. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Ceyssat guide.
Beyond hiking, the area around Ceyssat offers various outdoor activities. You can find mountain biking trails, such as "Plaine des Boulies – Vulcania loop," or running routes like "The loop of the Domes - trail route from the Ceyssat pass." For more details, check out the MTB Trails around Ceyssat and Running Trails around Ceyssat guides.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the start of many trails, particularly for the ascent of Puy de Dôme Summit. It is advisable to arrive early on weekends or during peak season as parking areas can become crowded.
The Col de Ceyssat is a significant mountain pass that serves as a crucial starting point for various hiking and cycling routes, especially for the ascent of Puy de Dôme. Historically, it was part of an ancient Roman road and a pilgrim route to the Temple of Mercury.
Access to the interior of the crater of Puy Pariou summit and crater is prohibited to protect its natural environment. However, you can still enjoy magnificent views of the crater and the Chaîne des Puys from its summit.
The Chaîne des Puys-Limagne fault, where Ceyssat is located, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique volcanic landscape. It features a chain of lava domes, craters, and maar volcanoes, offering diverse natural features and a distinctive geological environment.
The highest peak in the Chaîne des Puys is Puy de Dôme Summit, reaching an altitude of 1465 meters above sea level. It provides extensive views over the entire volcanic chain.
While Puy de Dôme Summit can be busy, especially with the cable car, exploring areas around Puy de Côme might offer a quieter experience. Although its summit isn't directly accessible, the surrounding hiking paths provide remarkable views and a chance to admire its unique morphology away from the main crowds.


See even more amazing summits around Ceyssat with these guides: