Highlight • Summit
Puy de Montoncel
Hiking
5.0
(26)
Mountain biking
5.0
(5)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Puy de Montoncel is a prominent summit located in the heart of France's Massif Central, reaching an elevation of 1,287 meters. This geographically significant peak marks the intersection of three French departments—Loire, Puy-de-Dôme, and Allier—and stands as the highest point in the Allier department. It forms an integral part of the Monts du Forez, the Bois Noirs forest massif, and the broader Montagne Bourbonnaise, also defining the northern boundary of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park.
Visitors are consistently drawn to Puy de Montoncel for its expansive panoramic views and tranquil natural setting. After significant clearing work in 2019, the summit now offers breathtaking vistas that stretch across the Chaîne des Puys and the Monts Dore to the west, and on clear days, even reveal the distant Mont-Blanc massif to the east. The serene atmosphere, combined with the unique landscape of an extinct volcano, creates a memorable experience for those who make the ascent.
Before embarking on your journey, it's helpful to know that the terrain involves forested slopes leading up to a cleared, grassy plateau at the summit. Accessing Puy de Montoncel is possible from several points, including the Col de la Charme, Col des Planchettes, or nearby villages like La Lizolle and Les Cros. Hikers should prepare for a moderately strenuous climb, often described as a "sweaty ascent," so appropriate footwear and water are recommended.
Puy de Montoncel offers compelling reasons for a visit, particularly for those interested in outdoor activities. It provides excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. A section of the GR3 long-distance hiking trail leads to the summit, offering various Puy de Montoncel hiking routes suitable for different fitness levels. The surrounding Bois Noirs forest is a renowned mountain biking area, boasting 1,500 km of marked trails, making it one of France's largest domains.
Reaching the summit reveals an "empty plateau of trees as if blown by the wind," covered with thick, soft grass, where a huge iron cross stands sentinel. Hikers often describe the feeling of "floating on an ocean of nature" as they traverse the "majestic thorn forest" with its "archaic, sometimes primal beauty." From this vantage point, you can observe the distinct shapes of the Auvergne volcanoes, including Puy-de-Dôme, Monts Dore, and Puy-de-Sancy, creating a truly immersive experience.
Whether you're seeking challenging Puy de Montoncel hiking routes or a leisurely stroll through nature, the area provides a diverse range of options. Many trails cater to various abilities, allowing everyone to discover the natural features of this extinct volcano. To explore the best walks and plan your adventure, you can find numerous routes for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling on komoot, helping you make the most of your visit to this remarkable summit.
Tips
August 31, 2023
Hiking
“Its slopes are covered with a majestic thorn …
•March 26, 2025
Mountain biking
"Its slopes are covered with a majestic thorn forest, with an archaic, sometimes primal beauty. The rare paths that cut through the woods wind along the slopes, in the shade of the green giants. These paths are the veins of the forest. They are tunnels of abundant oxygen. From meadows to groves, I feel as if I'm floating on an ocean of nature.
•
June 8, 2025
Cycling
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Puy de Montoncel
4.8
(6)
32
hikers
13.5km
04:19
540m
540m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(8)
28
hikers
6.67km
02:00
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
6
hikers
8.73km
02:51
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,280 m
Weather
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Tuesday 9 June
15°C
6°C
42 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the geological significance of Puy de Montoncel?
Puy de Montoncel is an extinct volcano, a key geological feature of the Massif Central. Its formation contributes to the unique landscape of the Monts du Forez and the Bois Noirs forest massif. The area is also important for water collection, being the source of several rivers like the Besbre, and contributing to the Durolle and Credogne river systems.
What are the main natural features and landmarks to look out for at Puy de Montoncel?
Beyond its volcanic origins, Puy de Montoncel is characterized by its dense conifer forest, often referred to as the Bois Noirs. At the summit, you'll find a cleared, grassy plateau where a huge iron cross stands. This clearing, completed in 2019, offers expansive panoramic views. The area is also home to diverse birdlife, particularly in the Credogne's wooded ravine.
What kind of terrain can hikers expect on the trails leading to Puy de Montoncel?
Hikers can expect a varied terrain. The lower and mid-slopes are predominantly covered by a majestic thorn forest, with paths winding through dense woods. As you approach the summit, the landscape opens up to a cleared, grassy plateau. The ascent is often described as moderately strenuous, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Are there any specific long-distance hiking trails that pass through Puy de Montoncel?
Yes, a section of the GR3 long-distance hiking trail leads to the summit of Puy de Montoncel. This provides a well-marked route for those undertaking longer treks or looking for a clearly defined path to the peak.
Is Puy de Montoncel suitable for a winter hike, and what should I pack?
While the intro mentions the best time to visit generally, winter hiking is possible but requires extra preparation. The summit's altitude of 1,287 meters means it can experience significant snow and colder temperatures. For winter hikes, it's crucial to pack warm, layered clothing, waterproof gear, appropriate winter footwear, and potentially snowshoes or microspikes depending on conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any family-friendly or dog-friendly routes available at Puy de Montoncel?
The area offers a range of paths suitable for various fitness levels, making it possible to find routes that are family-friendly. For those hiking with dogs, the natural environment of the Bois Noirs forest and the summit trails are generally welcoming. However, always keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife, and ensure you carry water for them.
Where can visitors find parking and trailheads for accessing Puy de Montoncel?
Access to Puy de Montoncel is possible from several points. Common access points and potential parking areas include the Col de la Charme, Col des Planchettes, or nearby villages such as La Lizolle and Les Cros. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient trailhead parking for your chosen path.
What kind of panoramic views can be expected from the summit of Puy de Montoncel?
From the summit, visitors can enjoy extensive panoramic views. To the west, you can see the Chaîne des Puys and the Monts Dore. On exceptionally clear days, the vista extends as far as the Mont-Blanc massif to the east. You can also observe the distinct shapes of other Auvergne volcanoes, including Puy-de-Dôme and Puy-de-Sancy.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Puy de Montoncel?
While Puy de Montoncel itself is a natural, tranquil area, nearby villages and towns in the Montagne Bourbonnaise and Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park would offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's recommended to research specific towns like Thiers or Ambert for services closest to your chosen access point.
What are the mountain biking opportunities like around Puy de Montoncel?
The surrounding Bois Noirs forest is a renowned mountain biking area, boasting an extensive network of 1,500 km of marked trails. This network expanded in 2020 to include the Ambert region, making it one of the largest mountain biking domains in France. Cyclists should ensure their e-bike batteries are charged for longer rides.