The Grande Cascade from the summit of Sancy

Start from the top station of the Sancy cable cars (use Sancy 1 or Sancy 2, whichever is most convenient for you).

(S) Climb the wooden staircase to reach the summit of Sancy (a very busy route).

(1) Descend on the other side via a winding path down a very steep slope. This will take you to the Col de la Cabanne.

(2) Follow a wide track to the left and downhill towards the Pan de la Grange (red and white^GR®4markings). Pass under a chairlift line and immediately reach a crossroads.

(3) Take a path on the right and continue along the^GR® to the next junction.

(4) Turn right onto the GR^®. Walk along the ridge, then go round the Puy de Cacadogne on the left. Climb slightly to reach the Puy des Crebasses.

(5) Descend on the other side, still following the^GR®4(ignore the track on the right heading towards the Chaudefour Valley). Reach the Col de Cuzeau.

(6) Continue north-north-west and, via a steep climb, reach the Roc de Cuzeau.

(7) Turn right and descend. After a few hairpin bends, the path turns west-north-west and joins the ridge. Continue on the^GR® towards the Tête de Flon.

(8) At a three-way junction, turn left (let the^GR®4head off to the right). Continue along the ridge (views of the town of Mont Dore to the left and the Col de la Croix St Robert and Col de Morand to the right). Descend until you reach a metal staircase.

(9) Descend the stairs (take care as they can be slippery in wet weather). Cross the footbridge over the stream beneath the Grande Cascade.

(10) Follow a path on the left that descends into the forest and joins the D36.

(11) Cross it carefully and take the Melchi Roze path opposite. Continue down until you find a staircase on the left.

(12) Go down the steps (be careful, as these steps have suffered a great deal from erosion and the planks marking the steps have often disappeared). This will take you to the Thermes du Mont Dore (E).

To reach the cable car from Mont Dore, take the shuttle bus (timetables and stops available at the tourist office).

Wear suitable footwear. Hiking poles will be useful on the steep slopes.

There are no water sources between the start and the waterfall. Bring plenty of food and drink.

In summer, the mountain pastures are grazed by cows or sheep: do not disturb these animals. If you encounter Patou dogs, do not approach them, do not stare at them, and make it clear to them that you are moving away from the herd.

Magnificent views all along the route along the ridges.

You may spot black vultures above the Col de Cuzeau.