Winter   The two major skiing areas in the Auvergne are situated around the two highest mountain massifs. Massif Du Sancy (skiresort Super Besse with link to Le Mont-Dore) and Massif Du Cantal (skiresort Super Lioran). Skiing may not be just around the corner but our house is situated strategically in the middle of these areas. A 40 minutes’ drive brings you to either resort. Leave after breakfast and you can start skiing at ten o’clock. The resorts are not vast so it is well worth skiing in both areas during your stay whether it is for a weekend or a week. And how about skiing with young children? These resorts are most suitable for children and not very crowded. Have you every been to Austria for a skiing holiday in February or April? And those who stay for a longer period may like to alternate skiing with cross country skiing, raquetting and walking!

Ski de fond / Ski Nordic / Cross country skiing (classic and skating) 
All over Auvergne there are hundreds of miles of runs (loipes) for “Ski de fond” the French word for this sport. Near to our house (approximately 15 minutes by car) in Le Claux and at the Col de Serre at the base of the Puy de Mary, you will find beautiful colour labelled routes. Green is for 12 kms blue for 13, red for 15 and black for 31 kms. The loipes are well maintained and looked after and are at the end of a dead end valley. You will be surprised about the peace and tranquillity and the overwhelming scenery!