Fournols: Heritage Landmark and Walking Routes

Fournols combines a medieval heritage landmark with two walking routes that differ in distance, duration and stated difficulty. The Croix grecque gives the village a clear historical connection; one route leads to the Les Pierres Folles site, while the other passes through the high forests of Haut-Livradois.

The Croix grecque

The Croix grecque is a former cemetery cross dating from the 13th century. One side depicts Christ on the cross, while the other shows the Virgin Mary with the Child. The work thus brings together two different religious depictions on opposite sides. It has been listed as a Monument historique since 22 July 1963. The date of origin and the listing refer to two different things: the 13th century dates the cross, while 1963 marks the beginning of its protected status as a monument.

Two routes, two time frames

The Les Pierres Folles route leads to the site of the same name and both starts and ends in Fournols. This circular walk is 5.5 km long, marked in blue and rated very easy. It is estimated to take about one hour and 45 minutes. Parking is available at the holiday village; local conditions may affect access. The route is also designated for families and mountain bikes (VTT).

Le puy du Sapt starts at Place de la Mairie, 63980 Fournols. The 8 km walking route is marked in yellow, rated moderate and takes about three hours. It passes through the high forests of Haut-Livradois and offers views of the Forestier ponds, the Croix des Sucs and La Colombière. The high forests are considered an ideal habitat for the boreal owl and the black woodpecker. When planning your walk to Puy du Sapt, take the weather into account, as it may affect walkability.

You can compare the routes directly when choosing your walk: Les Pierres Folles is 2.5 km shorter and is estimated to take about 1 hour and 15 minutes less than Le puy du Sapt. Their ratings also differ, from very easy to moderate. Les Pierres Folles is described as a circular route starting and ending in Fournols; Le puy du Sapt starts at Place de la Mairie. This lets you consider the time required, difficulty level and starting point together.

A dated event offering

In summer 2026, the Marché Guinguette des Initiatives Locales took place every Tuesday from 14 July to 18 August in the town hall square in Fournols, from 6 to 9 pm. The programme included local producers, crafts, food, drinks, concerts and entertainment. Each evening event lasted three hours and combined the market with food, drinks and a cultural programme.

Discover more destinations: Chaumont-Le-Bourg, Naves, Cunlhat, Issoire, Antoingt, Vernet-La-Varenne, Saint-Pierre-Le-Chastel, Lezoux

For the wider travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.