Le Puy Ferrand: A Majestic Summit of the Massif du Sancy

Culminating at 1,854 meters, the Puy Ferrand is one of the most remarkable volcanoes of the Massif du Sancy. A legacy of the intense volcanic activity that marked this region, it fascinates with its grandiose landscapes and its strategic location, near the Puy de Sancy, the highest point of the Massif Central.

A Testimony to the Volcanic History of Sancy

Puy Ferrand is part of a massif shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity. Its imposing relief and geological characteristics bear witness to the powerful eruptions that gave birth to this spectacular landscape. Today, it stands out as an essential summit for lovers of nature, mountaineering and hiking.

A Privileged Position in the Massif du Sancy

Located between Mont-Dore and Super Besse, Puy Ferrand offers incomparable viewpoints. To the west, it overlooks the Dordogne valley and reveals an impressive view of the Pic du Capucin and the Roc de Cuzeau. These landscapes extend to Artense, the Monts du Cantal and the Cezallier plateau.

To the east, Puy Ferrand dominates the Chaudefour glacial valley, renowned for its natural wealth and exceptional biodiversity. The panorama from the summit encompasses this protected valley, where nature unfolds in all its splendor, offering a grandiose spectacle in all seasons.

A Destination Popular with Mountaineers and Hikers

The eastern face of Puy Ferrand is a real adventure playground for mountaineering enthusiasts. With its snow and ice corridors in winter, it is a challenge for seasoned climbers. Its rock faces, dotted with sharp dykes, offer demanding routes, such as the famous Dent de la Rancune, the Crête de Coq and the Aiguille du Moine.

Hikers are not left out: the trails that wind around Puy Ferrand allow you to discover varied landscapes, mixing forests, clearings and breathtaking panoramas. The diversity of the routes makes it a destination suitable for all levels, from occasional walkers to the most experienced.

The South Face: View of Super Besse and the Cirque de la Biche

The south face of Puy Ferrand overlooks the Super Besse resort, one of the main winter sports resorts in the Massif Central. From the summit, you can admire the Puy de la Perdrix, where the cable car arrival station is located, as well as the Cirque de la Biche, which offers a breathtaking view of the resort's infrastructure and its snow-covered slopes.

Exceptional 360° Panoramas

From the summit of Puy Ferrand, the view is breathtaking. On a clear day, the view extends from the Massif du Sancy to the Cantal mountains, via Artense and the surrounding valleys. Visitors can also see other iconic peaks such as the Puy de Montchal, the Puy de Paillaret and the Puy Gros.

Puy Ferrand is particularly popular for admiring sunsets. In winter, when the massif is covered in snow, the warm hues of the setting sun contrast with the immaculate whiteness, creating a spectacular natural tableau.

Nearby Places of Interest

Puy Ferrand is located in a region rich in natural and heritage sites. Nearby, Puy de Sancy stands out as the highest peak in the Massif Central. Lac Pavin, with its deep and mysterious waters, Puy de Montchal and Puy de Chambourguet complete this fascinating natural tableau.

Visitors can also explore the medieval village of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, known for its picturesque architecture and warm atmosphere, or explore the many hiking trails that crisscross the region.

How to Get to Puy Ferrand?

From Super Besse: Head towards Puy de la Perdrix and follow the marked trail to the summit of Puy Ferrand. Allow about 1h30 round trip.
From the Sancy cable car: Go around the Puy de Sancy towards the Col de la Cabane, then follow the path that leads to the arrival of the Ferrand Nord lift before continuing to the summit.

Puy Ferrand, a Natural Jewel to Discover

Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a mountaineering enthusiast or simply looking for magnificent landscapes, Puy Ferrand is a destination not to be missed. With its 360° panorama, its sporting challenges and its proximity to must-see sites, it promises a memorable experience in the heart of the Massif du Sancy.