Auvergne is a historical region and former department in central France, and is now part of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. The mostly rural, mountainous area is popular for hiking and skiing, with vast forests and dormant volcanoes such as Puy de Dôme. An abundance of natural hot springs has spawned spa towns such as Vichy, known for its mineral water. Clermont-Ferrand is a university city with a stately Romanesque church, Notre-Dame du Port.

Wines: Côtes d’Auvergne AOC.