Vulcania

Volcano Park

Useful Information

Location:	350 km south of Paris, in the Clermont-Ferrand area.
Open:
Fee:	Adults EUR 18, Children (5-16) 12. Groups (20+): Adults EUR 14, Children (5-16) 10.
Classification:	Artificial volcanic cave, Museum
Light:	Incandescent Electric Light System
Dimension:
Guided tours:
Photography:
Accessibility:
Bibliography:
Address:	Vulcania, S.E.M. Volcans, Route de Mazayes, 63230 St-Ours-Les-Roches, Tel: +33-473-197000, +33-820-827828 (bookings), Fax: +33-473-197099 E-mail:
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

Description

The whole complex is built on four levels, with displays too numerous to mention.

Numerous cinemas from normal to enormous, many with 3D films. Another huge screen show eruptions from all over the world with a loud mind shattering sound track. One display is devoted to Maurice and Katia Krafft and shows some fine pictures of there exploration, together with items from their collection.

There is short but spectacular trip on a bed of molten lava as it rushes through a lava cave. Another display called the lava tunnel and represents a lava cave with sound effects and a video display. There is a display showing mud pools, silica rims and dams. A huge crater with rumbling noises in the depths emits smoke. You might consider the site expensive, but as it will take most of the day to see everything I think it represents value for money. Take a packed lunch and an umbrella, or enjoy one the many restaurnts.

There is a similar park virtually next door called "Volcan á ciel ouvert". This is actually an abandoned open air quarry which has been converted into an open air museum. All kinds of volcanic features are displayed.

Text by Tony Oldham (2002). With kind permission.