Les Roches |
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| the house | the village | location | the region | activities | getting there | contact |
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One of France’s hidden treasures, a region of hills, mountains, valleys, gorges, forests and rivers. The mountains of the Auvergne which culminate in rocky peaks well over 7,000 ft are the backbone of France's Massif Central. It is the largest volcanic area in western Europe. The volcanoes are dormant, though not extinct. The last eruption took place just 7,000 years ago. There is plenty of volcanic activity going on deep inside the earth, evidenced by the hot springs which rise to the surface some reaching a temperature of 82 degrees C. Traces of the volcanic past can be seen in the form of crater lakes, lava flows, volcanic plugs topped by castles and churches as in Le Puy en Velay. Sparsely populated, the Auvergne boasts a fine natural and cultural heritage. It is a region much appreciated by ramblers, fishermen and nature lovers as well as people in search of a quiet holiday in picturesque, uncrowded surroundings. The region is rich in history also, with numerous castles and chateaux. There are some perfect examples of Romanesque churches. The small city of Le Puy en Velay, famous for lace making, is one of the most unusual cities in the whole of France. The perfectly preserved medieval old town hosts many wonderful festivals throughout the year including the internationally famous Renaissance festival in early September “Roi de l’Oiseau”.
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