La Durande, Volcanic summit in Devès, Haute-Loire, France
La Durande is a volcanic peak in the Devès mountain range that rises to 1299 meters with a distinctive lava dome shape. From the summit, you can see across the surrounding landscape and identify neighboring peaks like Les Estables on clear days.
For centuries, a wooden oak cross marked the summit until a storm destroyed it and locals replaced it with a stone structure. This change shows how the community adapted to preserve a landmark on the peak.
Local residents maintain the paths and markers of the summit, continuing the regional tradition of natural site preservation.
A marker at the top helps you identify the surrounding geographical features and distant peaks. It is best visited on clear days when visibility allows you to see the full landscape.
The nearby Peyra-Taillade pass at 1190 meters was used during the 2017 Tour de France cycling race. This mountain crossing is a known point for cyclists exploring the region.
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