Lead the clan as it rides South chasing the sun and uncover wild territories, rugged mountainous landscapes, and pure motorcycle freedom.
With an average of 125 miles and around 4,5 hours on the bike per day, the Grand Volcanic Tour goes at an intermediate pace. In the morning, the start time is rarely scheduled before 9 am. The roads of the itinerary are paved all the way and can be quite sinuous and somewhat narrow at times in the mountainous areas.
In terms of accommodations, we only select premium 3* or 4* boutique hotels & authentic, comfortable Bed & Breakfasts. For the best riding experience possible, our support vehicle will carry your luggage, which will be available to you at every break during the day.
The Grand Volcanic Tour has a clear focus on gorgeous landscapes and motorcycle-perfect scenic drives, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get acquainted with the locals during the different visits and activities included in the tour.
Be ready to ride through some of the most majestic and preserved natural areas of France. Gorges? Canyons? Volcanoes? All of the above, and then some. Don’t forget to pack a bunch of spare memory cards for your camera — or rolls of film, for the purists.
Price for one rider, including motorcycle rental, accommodation, fuel, activities, and everything specified in the What's included tab. Prices include tax.
Price for one rider, including motorcycle rental, accommodation, fuel, activities, and everything specified in the What's included tab. Prices include tax.
Price for one pillion passenger, including accommodation, activities, and everything specified in the What's included tab. Prices include tax.
Price for one pillion passenger, including accommodation, activities, and everything specified in the What's included tab. Prices include tax.
The Grand Volcanic Tour is a hunt for the perfect scenery, a wild ride across the natural beauties of central France.
Riding across one of France’s largest natural parks, slalom between the green lava domes of the Chaîne des Puys and the steep volcanic ranges of the Massif du Sancy and the Monts du Cantal.
Let your mount slide along the rim of the spectacular Gorges de l’Ardèche and contemplate the plunging canyons of the Tarn Valley Gorges, with its small, picture-perfect villages clinging to the cliffside.
Climb the steep medieval streets of Le Puy-en-Velay to its 12th-century Cathedral perched on a volcanic hill, and savor local cheeses and cured meats in a traditional bouchon restaurant in Lyon’s hidden backstreets.
Canyons, gorges & mountain passes
Rivers, lakes and caves
Scenic roads and villages
Volcanoes of central France
Totem Moto Tours Signature Activities
Grand Volcanic Tour day-per-day
Arrival in Angoulême
Hop in the TGV (high-speed train) and travel from Paris, where you landed, to the city of Angoulême, one of the gateways to southern France. Take some time to settle in, go for a stroll in the Ville Haute, the city's oldest district, and meet the rest of the clan at the welcome dinner.
The Perigord run
Get familiar with your bike heading south towards Aubeterre-sur-Dronne and visit the impressive subterranean church of St Jean. Follow the Dronne river and explore the many stunning villages along its valley. Get to Limoges at the end of the day and take the time to admire the many historic buildings of the medieval Cité quarter before the apéritif.
The Limousine uplands
Get some lean angle on the twisty roads of Corrèze and head towards the ghost town of Clédat, lost in the middle of the Larfeuil forest, for its otherworldly atmosphere. Climb to the top of Mont Bessou, the peak of the Plateau de Millevaches, for a unique panorama over the Auvergne mountain ranges, and finish off the day relaxing in Mont-Dore, an elegant winter sports base and spa resort.
Climbing volcanoes
If you feel like it, explore the area at your own pace. Climb the Puy de Dôme volcano, a 4,777-feet high lava dome, and at its summit, gaze at one of France’s prettiest panoramas. Take a cable car to the top of Puy de Sancy, the highest point of the Massif Central mountain range. Or just relax in Mont-Dore and enjoy the many shops and restaurants the city has to offer.
Lakes, passes, and gorges
Warm up your tires on your way to the remarkable Pavin lake, a hidden crater enclosed by a crown of pine trees. From the highest road pass in Massif Central, a short hike to the top of Puy Mary will whet your appetite and reward you with a stunning view of the Cantal area. After lunch, follow the beautiful Lot gorges and discover its secluded villages and best-kept secrets.
Landmarks and hidden gems of Aveyron
Take a leap of faith and ride on the breathtaking 1,104-feet high Millau Viaduct, the highest bridge in the world. Explore the narrow flower-lined cobblestone streets of a troglodyte village and contemplate the many imaginary skylines of the Cité de Pierre, a geological formation overlooking the Dourbie gorges.
The Tarn valley gorges
The clan needs a rest. You can either take part in the Totem Poker Run, our exclusive scavenger hunt, scouting the area and discovering the local landmarks at your own pace. Or take it easy and enjoy the wonderful landscapes and scenic viewpoints of the Tarn valley gorges at your convenience.
The 1,000-turns stage
Leave the Tarn behind you and reach the preserved region of Ardèche in the morning. Observe the griffon vultures circling above you as you enter the Chassezac gorges and stop for lunch in the shade of chestnut trees in lively Les Vans. Gaze at the large natural Pont d’Arc bridge and, if you’re up for it, hurtle down the Ardèche gorges all the way to the Rhône river.
The hidden charms of Ardèche & Haute-Loire
From Valence, take on the Massif Central once more on the winding valley road crossing the Vivarais mountains. In Le Puy-en-Velay, spend some time strolling through the steep, narrow streets leading to the cathedral. You will arrive in the dynamic and thriving city of Lyon in the afternoon, just in time to share the apéritif and a lively dinner in a traditional bouchon lyonnais.
Back to Paris
It’s time for the clan to split and for every brave to pursue his own quest. A comfortable TGV takes you back to Paris or straight to the airport, depending on your travel plans.
Activities included
in this tour
Grand Volcanic Tour
in pictures
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