Best Attractions in the Massif Central  The Massif Central is best explored by those who love the great outdoors with excellent walking in the summer months and the closest skiing to Paris in the winter months.  All the major attractions in the area take advantage of the geology of the area, for example with many canoeing centres, underground caves to explore and centres such as Vulcania which are built around the theme of the volcanic past of the region.

Chaos de Monpellier-le-Vieux

Location: On the Causse Noir, the site is easily accessible from the new A75. Situated on D991 east of  the Viaduc de Millau.
General Info: www.montpellierlevieux.com. Open from mid March to mid Nov without interruption. Adults €5.20 Aged 5-15 €3.70 Aged 15-20 €4.10. Land train to the site is extra.
Description: A huge 300 acre natural site with a host of unusual rock formations created by water, wind and time of which any modern day sculptor would be proud. This is a fascinating place to wonder around especially in springtime when there is the added attraction of seeing the flora and fauna typical of the landscape, like wild orchids and anemones.
Our recommendations: This is an exposed site so time your visit carefully. Use the train if you have small or those who would rather not walk too far. Perhaps combine with a visit to Aven Armand, a short car ride to the east (a combined ticket is available).
For the children: Great for running around and trying to think up names for the various rock formations.

     - Aven Armand caves
     - Chaos de Monpellier-le-Vieux
     - Mont-Dore Aventures
     - Parc Ecureuil
     - Roquefort Société
     - Saint-Nectaire Aventures
     - Site Troglodyte de Jonas
     - Volcan de Lemptegy
     - Vulcania
 

Something the children will love - try canoeing in the Tarn.