The best area to stay in Sancy is Mont-Dore, for its convenience and access to both winter sports and summer activities.
Mont-Dore is a well-established spa town and ski resort located in a valley, offering a pleasant mix of amenities and natural beauty. The town centre itself is compact and walkable, with the main street, Rue Ramond, featuring a good selection of shops, restaurants, and traditional boulangeries. You'll find the thermal baths and the Funiculaire du Capucin, a historic funicular railway, right in the heart of town.
This area is particularly well-suited for families. The proximity to the ski slopes, accessible via shuttle buses or the funicular, makes winter holidays straightforward. In summer, the surrounding hiking trails, including paths leading to the Puy de Sancy, France's highest volcano, are easily reached, providing plenty of outdoor adventures for all ages.
For couples seeking a more tranquil and picturesque setting, Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise offers a charming alternative. This mediaeval village, a short drive from Mont-Dore, boasts cobbled streets, a beautiful church, and a more relaxed pace.