Hike at Lac de Guery

The weather last Sunday was perfect.  The forecast was calling for a high of only about 79 degrees, so Matthew and I decided to take advantage of the break in the heat and go hiking.  Last winter we went snow shoeing with Bertrand and Claire on a trail that went around Lac de Guery, up past a waterfall, through a field, and along a ridge that had amazing views of the area.  I had been waiting for a free weekend where Matthew and I could go back and do the same hike (minus the snow).  After consulting all the different trails, we decided to follow the 'green' trail.  We were in the mountains, and even though it was mid-July, I was actually cold when the trail was shaded. 

Very quickly though, there was a steep incline that took us past a waterfall, and that was enough to warm me up! 

After the waterfall, we continued to climb for just a short distance and then started walking on a path that ran parallel to a stream.  In the distance you could see grazing cows in pastures, and further out were the outlines of the volcanic mountains. 

Our Picnic Spot beside the stream:

 After lunch, we continued our hike.  This involved climbing over a fence (I have never been on a trail that included one of these!).

More breathtaking views!

  
We continued along a ridge.  In the distance we could see Puy-de-Dome, as well as the rest of the chain of volcanoes that make up the backdrop of Clermont.

We started the hike down.  Much too quickly our hike was over, so we decided to drive to the other end of the lake.  There was a little hotel and restaurant overlooking the lake.  We drank coffee and hot chocolate and continued to enjoy the beautiful day.  It was a perfect way to spend a Sunday in France.