The Banne d'Ordanche is a summit of volcanic origin culminating at 1515 meters above sea level. Enjoy a 360° view of the 3 volcanic massifs of the Parc National Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne.

The origin of the name Banne comes from the patois horn in the image of its slender silhouette. A circular 360° view of the 3 volcanic massifs of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park: the chain of Dômes, Monts-Dore and the Cantalien massif. Mecca of mountain pastures where herds of sheep graze.

A crater erected in the middle of the chain of volcanoes

Belonging to the Monts Dore and culminating at 1515 meters above sea level, the Banne d'Ordanche appeared about 2 million years ago. Its name comes from the word “banne” which means “horn” in patois, referring to the slender silhouette of the site. This summit then froze before undergoing the effects of the glaciers which flattened it. At its summit, an orientation table allows you to enjoy a superb 360° landscape including the Cantal massif, the chain of Dômes and that of the Monts Dore. The Banne d'Ordanche is mainly made up of a basaltic magmatic rock, to which it gave its name, ordanchite.

A thousand and one ways to reach this unique peak

La Banne d'Ordanche is accessible on foot, by hiking trails, such as that of the "Borne des 4 seigneurs" starting from the village of Laqueuille, or by bike, via mountain bike trails starting in particular at the lake of Servières. These routes cross beech forests and mountain pastures, pastures which are traveled by many flocks of sheep in summer. It is also possible to park near the site, in a car park located 6 kilometers from the village of Murat-le-Quaire, then follow the markings to access the summit (2 hours round trip).

The GR30 passes through the Banne d'Ordanche and offers a magnificent view of the chain of puys.


Access

By car, follow the D 922 then the D 30 to Murat-le-Quaire, then follow the signs for Banne d'Ordanche to the car park located 6 km from the village of Murat-le-Quaire. The ascent will then be done on foot following the markings, about 2 hours there and back.

Was this content useful to you?