Volvic / Laschamps

This stage takes you along highly enjoyable stretches, through a series of charming villages and landscapes, leading you into the Chaîne des Puys volcanic range. Leaving Volvic, you enter volcano territory, the route taking you towards the Puy de Chopine along very good cycling tracks. Admire the magnificent, rare natural setting in the heart of the Chaîne des Puys - the views are absolutely splendid.

The route

The ascent after Volvic is steep but short. Past the village of Beauregard, you head into the Chaîne des Puys along well-maintained tracks. After the pass of the Col de Ceyssat, you need to ride down a fairly rough path to Laschamps; take care, as the first part of the descent is fast and dangerous, with stones along the way. Consider taking the first path to the left, which is less rocky and a lot more enjoyable; it allows you to rejoin the main path further down.