The dignified region of Massif Central is home to the Parc Naturel Regional des Volcans d'Auvergne, the largest national park in France. Glacier lakes are filled at the feet of four volcanic mountains, whose molten insides warm several thermal springs. Vichy's mineral-rich waters are used for a number of different therapies, and are said to cure everything from rheumatism to arthritis.

Capital city Clermont-Ferrand's 108 m (354 ft) tall Gothic Cathedral is named after its host, and its exterior choir is decorated with a mosaic of black and white stones. Sometimes referred to as the Ville Noir, several of Clermont-Ferrand's older buildings are made of black volcanic rock. Michelin was founded here, and once employed most of the city. The French say a house in medieval Uzerche would be a castle anywhere else, and its steep hills and dripping gardens provide the perfect setting for the many stunning chateaus. Renaissance Salers' homes have wonderful turrets, carved from local lava, and churches and cathedrals teeter atop steep lava peaks in Le Puy en Velay.