This family-friendly theme park dedicated to the history and science of volcanoes is set in the heart of Auvergne’s Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO-listed chain of dormant volcanoes in central France. Visit Vulcania to learn how volcanoes are formed, erupt, and eventually go extinct via interactive and multimedia exhibits and activities.
Albeit dormant, the volcanoes of Parc des Volcans d’Auvergne (their official name) are nonetheless fascinating formations. Vulcania is a compelling stop both for its scenic setting and for the striking way the park’s installations are integrated into their surroundings—with most of the buildings set underground beneath the volcano-shaped cone. One of the main attractions at Vulcania is the 4D film The Awakening of the Auvergne Giants, which posits the question of what would happen if these dormant volcanoes were to wake from their long slumber.
Another popular park attraction is the Magma Explorer, where you can experience an erupting volcano from the inside via a multimedia journey. Vulcania is also an ideal jumping-off spot to explore the Chaîne des Puys by taking a short hike through the surrounding park or by exploring with VolcanBul, an eco-friendly robot guide.
Vulcania is located 9 miles (15 kilometers) northeast of Clermont-Ferrand in Saint-Ours-les-Roches, accessible via highway D941. In the summer months, shuttle buses leave from Clermont-Ferrand’s Place de Jaude twice daily for Vulcania.
The complex is mostly underground, so can be visited comfortably all year round. Many visitors choose to explore the surrounding Parc des Volcans d’Auvergne, so choose a clear day with mild temperatures to enjoy exploring the trails.
The scenic Chaîne des Puys consists of a 25-mile (40-kilometer) chain of cinder cones, lava domes, and maars that run north to south through central France. The volcanoes became dormant around 10,000 years ago, and the youngest and highest of the surviving lava domes is Puy de Dôme at 4,806 feet (1,465 meters).
