La Bourboule and the Auvergne volcanoes: a nature escape by van

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Auvergne volcanoes and the thermal charm of La Bourboule, an ideal adventure for van-loving road-trippers.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 12 October 2026

With crater lakes, majestic peaks and thermal spas, Auvergne is an endless playground for campervan travellers. In La Bourboule, the pure air and healing waters welcome you before you set off to conquer the sleeping giants. Ready to hit the winding roads of the volcanoes? Here are five must-see spots you can’t miss.

Le Puy de Dôme

A symbol of Auvergne, this iconic volcano offers a 360-degree view over the Puys chain. Climb on foot or take the rack railway for a breathtaking panorama.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping-Car Park Saint-Ours Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Quiet area 5 km from Puy de Dôme, full services (water, electricity) for €14/night. Easy car access. › Forest parking Ceyssat Parking ★ 4.5 Isolated forest clearing at the foot of the volcano, free. 26-minute walk via a gravel track. › Camping Campsite ★ 4 Family-friendly 3-star campsite with heated pool, 8 km away. Warm welcome and full services. › Spacious motorhome area Orcines Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Spacious tarmac area 4 km away, €7/night. Secure barrier, services included. › Parking near the chapel with view of Puy de Dôme Saint-Gènes-Champanelle Parking ★ 4.4 Parking with stunning views of Puy de Dôme, free. Overnight stay permitted, 45-minute walk. ›

Le lac Pavin

This deep, mysterious crater lake is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a refreshing swim. Its wild surroundings make it an unforgettable photo spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Aire de la Biche Motorhome area ★ 3.8 Lively area 700 m from the centre, general electricity. €20/night, rating 3.8 (432 reviews), 35-minute walk. › Camping Bois de Gravière Campsite ★ 3.5 Wooded campsite near the medieval centre, pool and activities. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Puy de Sancy trail parking Picherande Parking ★ 4.7 Free parking at the foot of Puy de Sancy, panoramic views. Rating 4.7 (12 reviews), 6-minute drive (5 km). › Forest nature parking Le Verdier Parking ★ 4.6 Shaded, very quiet forest pitch. Rating 4.6 (38 reviews), 5-minute drive (5 km). › Lake Bourdouze motorhome parking Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking at 1200 m altitude, 360° views. Rating 4.5 (24 reviews), 46-minute walk. ›

La Bourboule

A renowned thermal spa town, La Bourboule blends Belle Époque architecture with wellness thanks to its hot springs. Wander its lively streets and sample the local spring water.

Where to sleep nearby

Cross-country ski station parking La Bourboule Parking ★ 4.4 Large natural parking area with pine forest, free picnic shelter. 16-minute walk, rating 4.4. › Camping Campsite ★ 4.8 4-star campsite with panoramic volcano views. Heated toilets, pool, 14-minute walk. › Quiet parking scenic view La Tour-d'Auvergne Parking ★ 4.5 Isolated forest spot with exceptional views, total peace. 6-minute drive (5 km). › Ferme de Lavaux Manry Hubert Campsite ★ 4.8 Farm campsite with grassy pitches and Sancy views. Warm welcome, 5-minute drive. › Camping Les Coux Campsite ★ 4.6 Quiet family campsite, 34 pitches, near the centre. Clean toilets, 15-minute walk. ›

Le Puy de Sancy

The highest point in the Massif Central, this volcano offers lunar landscapes and hikes for all levels. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort.

Where to sleep nearby

Lake view parking Chambon-sur-Lac Parking ★ 4.9 Stunning views over Lac Chambon and Murol Castle. Easy access, spacious flat parking. › Camping de la Grande Cascade Campsite ★ 4.6 Family campsite at 1200 m altitude, Sancy views. Quiet pitches bordered by hedges. › Aire de bivouac de Chastreix-Sancy Motorhome area ★ 4.6 Area at 1400 m, starting point for Puy de Sancy hikes. Full services for €12/night, 360° views. › Quiet forest edge parking La Tour-d'Auvergne Parking ★ 4.7 Isolated on the edge of the forest, absolute peace. Max 2-3 campervans, flat and shaded ground. › Aire de la Biche Motorhome area ★ 3.8 Close to Super-Besse slopes and lake, €20/night. 5 zones with electricity, town centre 700 m away. ›

Les gorges de la Truyère

Carved by the river, these spectacular gorges are ideal for canoeing or hiking along the cliffs. A wild and untouched setting.

Where to sleep nearby

Bès viewpoint parking Fridefont Parking ★ 4.8 360° belvedere over the gorges, free and very quiet. 5-minute drive (4 km), rating 4.8. › Camping municipal Campsite ★ 4.7 Municipal campsite in nature, spacious and peaceful. 29-minute walk, rating 4.7. › Lakeside dam view parking Fridefont Parking ★ 4.6 Exceptional views over Lac de Grandval, flat ground. 30-minute walk, on-site restaurant. › Parking surrounded by trees Alleuze Parking ★ 4.7 Isolated forest spot above the lakes, track access. 34-minute walk, rating 4.7. › Camping à La Ferme Les Deux Vallées Campsite ★ 4.6 Farm campsite, warm welcome and pasture. 31-minute walk, rating 4.6. ›

Le Puy de Lassolas

Less crowded but just as impressive, this gently shaped volcano is perfect for a quiet hike. From its summit, you can admire the Puys chain.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les volcans Campsite ★ 4.6 Eco-friendly 3-star campsite, volcano views. Access to Lac d'Aydat in 6 minutes (5 km). › Parking with view of Lake Aydat Aydat Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking with stunning views of Sancy and the lake. Flat ground, 6-minute drive (6 km). › Parking near the chapel with view of Puy de Dôme Saint-Gènes-Champanelle Parking ★ 4.4 Paved parking near a chapel, Puy de Dôme views. Overnight stay permitted, 5-minute drive (5 km). › Lakeside parking Aydat Parking ★ 4.3 Lakeside parking, access to jetty and picnic area. 6-minute drive (5 km), passing traffic. › Maison Lassalas Campsite ★ 4.6 Countryside picnic area, local produce at the farm. 5-minute drive (5 km), quiet. ›

See all spots on the map