Puy de Chalard

Puy de Chalard is a volcanic formation in Manzat that stands 840 meters high and forms part of the Chaîne des Puys in the Massif Central. The volcano displays a distinctive horseshoe-shaped crater caused by an explosion on one side during its formation.

The volcano formed through strombolian volcanic activity in the region's distant geological past. This type of explosive eruption shaped the peak's distinctive features and reflects the Massif Central's volcanic history.

The name comes from Occitan language roots, blending 'Puei' for elevated ground and 'Chaslar' referring to a medieval stronghold. This linguistic blend shows how the region's past connects different cultural worlds.

Located less than 40 kilometers northwest of Clermont-Ferrand, this volcano is reached via marked trails in the Combrailles region. The hike is manageable for visitors with average fitness, and the terrain offers good navigation markers for walkers.

Before a reforestation project in the 1970s, the summit offered direct views down into the volcanic crater. The tree planting changed what visitors could see, though it gave the peak a different character with denser forest coverage today.