Montjuzet Park rises out of Clermont-Ferrand to a height of 12,000 feet (486 meters), offering beautiful views of the city and the Puy de Dôme. Explore the trails through the woods of this 64-acre (26-hectare) park, or relax in the sun on the lush grass. For the young and energetic, there are play parks to be found. And the best thing about it: the park is completely free.
The botanical gardens contain all the heady scents of the Mediterranean. Olive and cypress trees and umbrella pines are complemented by more exotic plants such as eucalyptus, monkey puzzle and Chinese palm. Close your eyes and breathe in the fragrant air.
Clermont-Ferrand is one of the few cities in France to have an APIcité label. This prestigious designation is given to cities that have taken steps to encourage bees and other pollinators. Montjuzet Park is home to four of Clermont-Ferrand’s eight beehives. It is also a Refuge LPO, a title given to parks that have a wealth of plant, insect and animal life. See how many different species you can spot.
Wander in the shade, keeping a look out for the park’s modern sculptures. View the city through the window in Takashi Naraha’s “La Boule Erratique,” and watch water spilling along and out of Carlos Cruz-Diez’s chromatic induction fountain.
The clean air and leafy paths make the park a popular jogging spot, so put on your trainers and join in. Keep in mind that running here isn’t for the faint-hearted, though, as the paths that climb up the hill can be pretty steep.
If you get hungry while in the park and didn’t bring a picnic, find the snack van. The churros are a particular delight.
Montjuzet Park is entered from Rue du Parc Montjuzet, a 30-minute walk north from the Place de Jaude. It opens early in the morning, 7 days a week. Out of season it closes before dinner time, but in the summer it has extended hours. Venture up at dusk to watch the sun set over the fabulous Puy de Dôme.
