9 bed villa for sale

Bassignac, Cantal, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Unknown to all but the French, Haute-Loire, Correze, Cantal and Puy-de-Dôme are hidden gems in the middle of France, with fresh mountain air and unspoilt scenery. In the mountains of the Massif Central, Cantal's volcanic landscape has created a place for adventurous year-round activities, from winter skiing to mountain hiking, cycling and climbing. Water sports include sailing, swimming, paddle-boarding and fishing in the many lakes and rivers, including the Dordogne and Loire. Cycling, whether on- or off-road, you can choose between the famous Tour routes over mountain passes such as Puy Mary, or forest trails and mountain descents such as Le Lioran. Cantal is a great place for adventure, or for a more relaxing stroll around a local lake or park. Among the extinct volcanoes of the Auvergne countryside, peaceful villages, medieval towns and large cities are all opportunities to sample local cuisine, where food comes directly from local farmers and the surrounding land.Cantal, Bleu d'Auvergne and Salers are just a selection of the fantastic cheeses available, which can be followed along the Cheese Route.Local historic sites to visit include Saint Flour, with its Gothic cathedral, and, to the south, Gustave Eiffel's magnificent Garabit viaduct, which crosses the steep Truyère valley.The old village of Salers, one of the most beautiful villages in Frances, offers hands-on demonstrations of the countryside, from milking cows to creating bespoke the south of the Cantal lies the capital of the Cantal, with its festivals and is also famous for the production of umbrellas, which adorn the streets.