The Four Lords' Boundary Stone Trail

This is considered a difficult and challenging hike, requiring a very good level of fitness. It's often described as a 'heavy hike' due to its length and significant elevation gain.

The loop typically starts from Laqueuille, near the foirail (fairground) parking area. You can usually find parking there to begin your hike.

The trail features several significant points of interest. You'll encounter Trador Waterfall, which descends over two tiers of basaltic organs. The route also ascends to the summit of La Banne d'Ordanche, offering exceptional panoramic views and an orientation table. Near the historic La Borne des Quatre Seigneurs marker, you'll find an additional viewpoint at the foot of Puy Loup, which provides a 360° vista of the surrounding massifs.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, it is strongly recommended to keep them on a leash at all times due to the presence of herds in the open pastures you will cross.

While the trail can be enjoyed in various seasons, late spring through early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions for hiking. During these months, you'll experience milder temperatures and clearer paths, making for a more pleasant experience.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking this trail or accessing the Parc naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne. However, it's always good practice to respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and practice Leave No Trace principles.

The trail offers a diverse range of terrain. You can expect a mix of shaded hollow paths, sections through forests, and open pastures. The path itself is generally easily passable, but the overall length and elevation contribute to its challenging nature.

Yes, the route for La borne des Quatre Seigneurs largely follows the official trail of "La borne des quatre Seigneurs" (97% of the route). It also briefly intersects with sections of "La Banne d'Ordanche" (20%), "Chemin du Recouteau" (12%), and "Le plateau du Guéry" (9%).

You can look forward to stunning panoramic views throughout the hike. From various points, you'll be able to see the Chain of Puys, the Cantal mountains, the Sancy massif, and expansive surrounding plains and valleys. The summits of La Banne d'Ordanche and Puy Loup offer particularly impressive 360° vistas.

Laqueuille is a small village, and while specific cafes or pubs directly at the trailhead might be limited, you can typically find some local amenities, including accommodation options, within the village itself or nearby. It's advisable to check in advance for opening hours, especially outside peak season.

Given the challenging nature and length of this 17.8 km hike, it's essential to be well-prepared. We recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, appropriate hiking footwear, layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions, sun protection, and a map or GPS device. Trekking poles can also be beneficial for the elevation changes.