Source du Par, Chaudes-Aigues

Chaudes-Aigues is a stone village in a narrow Cantal valley whose name means hot waters, and the Source du Par is the reason. The spring comes out at about 82°C, often described as the hottest natural spring in Europe, and the steam rising off it on a cool morning is the sight to come for. You cannot bathe in the spring itself; it is a look-and-photograph stop in the village.

Historically the hot water was piped under houses to heat them. To get into the water, go to Caleden, the town's thermal and spa centre, where the water is cooled before use. Its day entries range from about 16 to 83 euros depending on what you book, and swimwear is mandatory.

The medical cure season in 2026 ran from March to late November, and the leisure spa keeps its own hours, so check before you drive. The honest downside: this is a remote corner of the Massif Central, a long way from airports and motorways; plan it as part of an Aubrac road trip rather than a detour.