Orcival & Clermont Ferrand

We were still not quite up for another walk, so we decided to head towards the little village of Orcival, just southwest of Clermont Ferrand.

It was a pretty little village, with a number of bistros and bars serving plat de jour. However, we just wanted a coffee before having a wander along the road; discovering the sweet shop, and cooling off in the church.

We then drove into the main city of the Auvergne, Clermont Ferrand. We parked easily enough, in the main underground car park in the centre, then ventured out to find somewhere for a little light snack. We found a crêperie, always a good option, in a pretty little shaded square.

Our next stop was the Cathedral. A huge gothic structure made of black basalt. It makes for quite an austere building from the outside, but inside it is quite beautiful.

I’m not a religious person, but I do love the space a church or cathedral provides — space to think, and have those quiet moments of reflection and contemplation.

The city itself, around the cathedral, is made up of cobbled streets and leafy squares, with little boutique shops and tiny restaurants. Perfect for wandering.

The new part of the city is a stone’s throw away, centred around a huge open plaza, where all the main French chains can be found. It’s good if you want a little retail therapy.