Puy de Bassierou

Puy de Bassierou is a summit in the Monts du Cantal, part of the Massif Central, rising on the border between the communes of Saint-Projet-de-Salers and Saint-Cirgues-de-Jordanne at an elevation of roughly 1,441–1,444 metres. It sits between the Col de Légal pass and the neighbouring peak of Cabrespine, together forming a rocky ridge that overlooks the Jordanne valley. It's a rewarding stop for hikers who want sweeping mountain views away from the crowds while exploring the volcanic heart of Auvergne.

How do you get to Puy de Bassierou?

The usual starting point is the village of Saint-Projet-de-Salers, roughly halfway between Aurillac and Mauriac. Local roads lead from the village toward the Col de Légal, where the walking trails onto the ridge begin. The most popular route is the "Légal – Puy de Bassierou – Fontaine de Levers" loop, about 13.5 km long with roughly 800 metres of elevation gain. It takes a little over 5 hours on average and is rated as a hard hike, so plan for a full day out and bring proper trekking footwear. The long-distance GR 400 trail, which circles the entire Cantal volcanic massif, also passes close to Puy de Bassierou on its way to the Cabrespine refuge.

What will you see along the way?

The route follows the ridge separating the Jordanne valley from the Bertrande valley, opening up wide views over the gentle, grass-covered hills typical of the Monts du Cantal. The Doire river has its source on the south-western slope of Puy de Bassierou. Along the way you'll pass the Buron de Cabrespine, a former shepherd's shelter at about 1,500 metres that has been restored into a mountain refuge — a good spot to rest while taking in views of both the Jordanne and Bertrande valleys. Saint-Projet-de-Salers itself sits framed by other notable summits: Puy Chavaroche (1,739 m) dominates on one side, while the rocky Cabrespine ridge and the Col de Légal pass (1,231 m) rise on the other.

When is the best time to visit?

April through October is the best window for hiking around Puy de Bassierou, when trails are clear and mountain weather is at its most stable. Summer days are long enough to complete the full loop without rushing. Spring and autumn add extra colour to the landscape, though mornings run cooler and weather can shift quickly, as is typical for mid-altitude volcanic terrain.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Puy de Bassierou? The summit reaches around 1,441–1,444 metres, depending on the source.

How long does the hike to the summit take? The popular loop through Col de Légal, Puy de Bassierou and Fontaine de Levers takes about 5 hours on average and is considered a hard trail.

Is the trail suitable for beginners? With roughly 800 metres of elevation gain over 13+ km, it's a demanding route better suited to hikers with some mountain experience.

What's worth seeing along the way? The restored Buron de Cabrespine shelter, panoramic views over the Jordanne and Bertrande valleys, and the source of the Doire river on the mountain's slope.