Things To Do
in Cournon-d’Auvergne

Cournon-d’Auvergne is a charming commune located in the Auvergne region of France, nestled near the city of Clermont-Ferrand. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant community, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The town boasts a rich history, evident in its architecture and local culture.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities, gastronomy, and local events throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Cournon-d’Auvergne
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Fraternité, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll among beautiful gardens and sculptures.

afternoon
:

Head to the Cournon-d’Auvergne market to sample local delicacies and shop for fresh produce, cheese, and artisanal products.

evening
:

Dine at La Table de Pierre, a local restaurant known for its regional cuisine, and enjoy a glass of local wine while soaking in the atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a hike in the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of dormant volcanoes.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history of Cournon-d’Auvergne and its significance in the Auvergne region.

evening
:

Explore the nightlife scene by visiting a local bar, such as Le Café de la Gare, which often features live music and a friendly ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🍕Pizza$10-15
🚇Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🏨Night at a Hotel$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may require travel to nearby towns.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...? " - Where is...?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Cournon-d’Auvergne

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Fraternité

A beautiful park featuring landscaped gardens and sculptures, ideal for capturing serene moments.

The Volcanic Landscapes

Stunning views of the nearby volcanoes, especially at sunset, offering dramatic landscapes for photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant market scenes filled with colorful produce and local crafts provide excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cournon-d’Auvergne

Cournon-d’Auvergne offers a delightful culinary experience with its emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Cournon-d’Auvergne Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Truffade

A hearty dish made from potatoes, cheese (usually Cantal), and lardons, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.

Must-Try!

Pounti

A savory cake made from a mix of meat, prunes, and herbs, showcasing the local flavors of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cournon Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cournon-d’Auvergne experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants; it is a sign of respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit down at a table and keep hands on the table but not elbows during meals.

Punctuality

Arriving on time for meals and appointments is considered courteous; being late can be seen as disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cournon-d’Auvergne is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in busy areas. It's also advisable to familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Cournon-d’Auvergne

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common practice.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it’s advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring local gardens.

Summer

Warm temperatures are perfect for hiking and outdoor festivals; however, it can get crowded at popular tourist spots.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, especially in the parks; this season also features local harvest festivals.

Winter

Chilly weather may bring snow, creating a picturesque landscape; winter sports enthusiasts will find opportunities nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Cournon-d’Auvergne at Night

Cournon-d’Auvergne offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, cafés, and live music venues. Local bars like Le Café de la Gare attract a young crowd, often featuring live performances. During weekends, the atmosphere livens up with various events and social gatherings, making it a great place for both locals and visitors to enjoy a night out.

Hiking in Cournon-d’Auvergne

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Puy de Dôme Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Puy de Dôme, offering panoramic views and a well-marked path.

Gorges de la Sioule

This trail offers a scenic hike along the Sioule River, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and picturesque landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Cournon-d’Auvergne by plane.

Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Cournon-d’Auvergne, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cournon-d’Auvergne is relatively walkable, with many amenities within walking distance. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets and parks, making it easy to explore on foot. However, certain attractions may require a short drive or public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Cournon-d’Auvergne, attracted by its safe environment and local amenities.

Retirees

The town is also home to a significant number of retirees who appreciate the calm lifestyle and proximity to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a beloved sport in the Auvergne region, with many local teams and a passionate following among residents.

Cycling

Cycling is popular, especially with the scenic routes available, attracting both recreational and competitive cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cournon-d’Auvergne is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Clermont-Ferrand and other surrounding areas, but service frequency may vary, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cournon-d’Auvergne.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications to traditional meat-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it’s best to inform your server about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cournon-d’Auvergne is accessible with several local clinics and a nearby hospital. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 15, and most medical professionals speak English. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide