The Shire Forest

Recognized as one of the richest forests in Auvergne, the Comté forest is an Espace Naturel Sensible (ENS - https://ens.puy-de-dome.fr/nos-actions.html), unique for the diversity of its flora and fauna. Hiking trails are available to discover these natural treasures. This emblematic forest, the largest lowland oak grove in Auvergne, is also the first and largest site acquired by the Département when it set up its Espace Naturel Sensible policy, and now covers more than 610 ha. The Comté forest covers a total area of 1,500 ha. Bordered to the west by the Allier valley and to the east by the granite plateaux of the Livradois, it is one of the most diverse and floristically rich massifs in France. The Comté massif stretches across several buttes belonging to Europe's oldest volcanic complex (-25 million years), such as the Pic du Cheix Blanc (817 m altitude), the Pic de Dimond (734 m) and the Pic des Fleurides (676 m). The area's geographical location and geological and historical past are factors that explain the great diversity of habitats (varied forest stands, gully forests, residual alluvial forests, pioneer grasslands on rocky domes....). In fact, the Comté forest is home to a wealth of flora: for example, the knotty cranesbill, a mountain species that reaches its northern limit on national territory in this forest. And four protected species: the martagon lily, the superb carnation, the pulsatilla anemone and the red cephalanthemum. The forest's wealth of flora is matched by a remarkable wealth of fauna, including large wild animals (deer, wild boar, foxes), small mammals (bats: Daubenton's murin), birds (buzzard, red kite, pileated woodpecker), insects and amphibians, with emblematic species such as the spotted salamander and yellow-bellied sounder, both considered rare and threatened in France. The Conseil Départemental offers a program of events, some of which take place at the Forêt de la Comté with the ENS. Advice and precautions: - follow the suggested direction of travel for better understanding; - for the little ones, bring a baby carrier (strollers are not suitable); - the undergrowth can be home to ticks, so make sure you wear long-sleeved clothing, pants and closed shoes; - make sure you're equipped for the walk, depending on the weather; - carry plenty of water.