| The Massif du Sancy in the Auvergne region of | | | | arduous unless there is a purpose built path |
| France receives many thousands of visitors | | | | available. Most of the authorised footpaths |
| each year. 90% of them are cyclists, walkers | | | | in the Massif du Sancy are marked with yellow |
| and hikers, here to enjoy the spectacular | | | | signposts indicating the destination and |
| volcanic scenery and experience the big skies | | | | distance. |
| and fresh air. The other 10% love the peace | | | | |
| and quiet of the mountains, the relaxation of | | | | 3. Make sure that you have plenty of water |
| the thermal spas and the hearty food. | | | | with you - old people and children can |
| | | | dehydrate very quickly and this can happen |
| It is of paramount importance, however, that | | | | even more rapidly at altitude. Most of the |
| visitors remember the sudden and dramatic | | | | peaks in the Sancy range are at least 1000m |
| climatic changes which can occur in the | | | | (3,000 feet) high which means you need to |
| mountain environment - it is, therefore, | | | | drink even more water than the usual |
| essential to follow a few basic rules to | | | | recommended daily amount. |
| ensure the safety of everyone. | | | | |
| | | | 4. Be aware of the weather forecast for the |
| It may seem like common sense to think about | | | | day and plan your route accordingly - if it |
| being properly equipped in a mountain climate | | | | is going to be stormy or rainy or foggy, |
| but many people are lulled into a false | | | | avoid climbing too high and avoid the high |
| sense of security by the high summer | | | | plateaux. Do not ignore the weather forecast; |
| temperatures and big, blue skies in the | | | | a perfect summer day can turn quite nasty. |
| Sancy. This can all change in a heartbeat and | | | | You could perhaps even postpone your walk to |
| the perfect summer's day can quickly turn | | | | another day. |
| into a foggy, wet challenge. | | | | |
| | | | 5. Do not rely on your mobile phone to get |
| Here a few basic tips and guidelines to | | | | you out of trouble! Coverage is extensive in |
| follow to ensure your safety: | | | | the Massif du Sancy range but there are still |
| | | | some of the more remote spots where there |
| 1. Make sure that the route you have chosen | | | | will be no signal. Always tell someone of |
| is suitable for all people in your party; if | | | | your intended itinerary before you set off |
| you are out walking with children or older | | | | and your approximate time of return. |
| people, it is essential to remember that | | | | |
| their stamina levels are easily exhausted. | | | | 6. Have the right clothing. The following |
| | | | items are essential - - a sturdy pair of |
| 2. Plan your route carefully and equip | | | | waterproof walking boots - a back pack - a |
| yourself with a good map. All the Tourist | | | | waterproof jacket and trousers - a hat - a |
| Offices in the Massif du Sancy sell a | | | | warm top or fleece - sunglasses - sun cream - |
| detailed map of the area with all the | | | | plenty of water - glucose sweets or a snack - |
| authorised walking trails marked on it. Make | | | | a basic first aid kit - a map and compass |
| sure that you are familiar with the route you | | | | |
| have planned - are there any steep ascents or | | | | 7. Be equipped with the emergency numbers |
| descents and will all members of the party be | | | | just in case you need them. The Mountain |
| able to cope? Try very hard to keep to the | | | | Rescue Service in the Massif du Sancy is the |
| footpaths - veering off the authorised routes | | | | 'Peloton de gendarmerie de montagne' (PGM) |
| could lead you into terrain that is beyond | | | | based in Le Mont Dore. They can provide |
| the capabilities of some members of your | | | | advice and information on all aspects of the |
| party. If the first part of your route | | | | mountain environment and proposed itineraries |
| involves taking the cable car up the | | | | as well as providing a rescue service for |
| mountain, think about how you are all going | | | | those in real difficulty. Their number is |
| to get down and always follow the signposts. | | | | 04-73-65-04-06. In the event of an accident |
| Cable cars and chair lifts are usually for | | | | you can also contact the emergency services |
| skiers and this can often indicate that the | | | | on 15, 17, 18 or 112. |
| descent without snow will be steep and | | | | |