Thrill-seeking in the Puy-de-Dôme: our ideas on land, in the air and on the water

Picture it… The wind whistling past your ears high above the volcanoes, your teenagers bursting out laughing at the end of a zip line, then a big splash to cool off at the end of the day. The Puy-de-Dôme isn’t just a land of peaceful walks: it’s also a fantastic playground for adrenaline lovers.

From Camping de la Croze in Châtel-Guyon, most of these activities are less than 45 minutes away. Here are our ideas for a holiday packed with thrills, in the air, on land and on the water.

In the air: soaring over the Chaîne des Puys

Paragliding from the puy de Dôme (35 min)

Taking off from the summit of the puy de Dôme, with the Chaîne des Puys beneath your feet… it’s the most spectacular experience in the region. Flying tandem with an instructor, no experience is needed: you simply enjoy the view.

We recommend Absolu Parapente, which offers first flights from the puy de Dôme. Flights depend on the weather, so it’s best to book early in your stay to keep some leeway.

Zip lines, tree-top adventures and via ferrata

Parc Écureuil in Châtel-Guyon (5 min)

It’s our favourite for families. Deep in the forest, your children move from tree to tree on courses suited to every age. Just 5 minutes from the campsite, it’s the ideal activity for an action-packed afternoon.

Crapa’hutte, the giant zip line park (45 min)

South of Clermont-Ferrand, Crapa’hutte combines huge zip lines with a via ferrata. The boldest will find plenty to push their limits, with superb views over the volcanoes.

In the Sancy: Saint-Nectaire Aventures and Super-Besse

For a day trip to the south, Saint-Nectaire Aventures (50 min) offers tree-top courses, and Super-Besse (1 h 10) outdoor thrill activities. Make the most of it and taste Saint-Nectaire cheese where it’s made!

Speed and challenges, a stone’s throw from the campsite

Karting Sarron in Riom (10 min)

Helmet on, foot down: the Sarron circuit in Riom is the perfect place for a challenge with family or friends. An easy outing to fit in, even late in the day.

La Synapserie escape game in Riom (10 min)

Fancy some thrills… for the brain? At La Synapserie, you have one hour to solve the puzzles and escape as a team. It’s also a great idea for a rainy day: discover our other indoor activities in the Puy-de-Dôme.

On the water: canoeing, inflatables and descents

Canoeing on the Sioule (40 min)

Paddling between the cliffs of the Sioule gorges is a real family adventure. Routes range from a gentle paddle to a sportier descent.

The inflatables at Auvergne Loisirs (45 min)

At the Confolant leisure centre, large inflatable water structures float on the lake in summer. Jumps, slides and splashes guaranteed: your children won’t want to get out!

The Vélorail des Fades (30 min)

Less adrenaline, but a unique memory: you pedal along a former railway line, with the Fades viaduct as the highlight. Also discover our ideas for keeping cool in hot weather and the most beautiful lakes for swimming.

Water parks and aquatic centres in the Puy-de-Dôme

The Puy-de-Dôme has no large outdoor water park, but there are several aquatic centres with water slides and fun pools:

• Centre aquatique Béatrice Hess in Riom (10 min): indoor, ideal in bad weather;
• Stade nautique Pierre-de-Coubertin in Clermont-Ferrand (30 min): fun pool and water slide;
• Centre aquatique Les Hautes-Roches in Chamalières (35 min): lazy river, bubble baths and water slide;
• Centre aqualudique d’Issoire (40 min) and Sancy’O in La Bourboule (55 min): for a day out to the south.

Fancy some relaxation after all that effort? The Aïga Resort in Châtel-Guyon (5 min) welcomes you to its thermal water pools, with a 10% discount thanks to the voucher available at the campsite reception.

Family thrills: Vulcania and Le Pal

At Vulcania (30 min), the dynamic rides plunge you into the heart of eruptions: shakes, blasts and special effects guaranteed. For a big day out, Le Pal (1 h 20) combines roller coasters with an animal park, a treat for young and old. And for more ideas by age, discover our family activities in the Puy-de-Dôme.

And at the campsite?

Back at La Croze, the adventure continues: your children let off steam on the trampoline, then everyone meets up at the heated swimming pool. To explore the area by bike, rent one from Volcanic Cycles or join a guided ride with Le Vélodrome. Find all the details on our campsite services and activities.

Camping de la Croze means:

• thrilling activities less than 45 minutes away;
• Parc Écureuil, karting and the escape game 5–10 minutes away;
• a heated pool and a trampoline to let off steam when you get back;
• a quiet family campsite at the foot of the volcanoes.

Don’t wait any longer and book your stay in Châtel-Guyon today!