STEPPE INTO THE AUVERGNE

An 'extremely rare' 400,000 year old skull belonging to a 3.7m tall Steppe Mammoth (Mammuthus trogontherii), has been unearthed in the Auvergne region of southern France. Scientists hope that the skull will provide the 'missing link' in mammoth evolution. For the opportunity to explore an ancient land relatively undiscovered by foreign visitors, steppe-off on Walks Worldwide’s 9-day, self-guided The Auvergne Volcanoes - A Grande Randonnee, following one of France's Grande Randonnees (long distance walking routes). From the volcanic mountain mass of the Puy de Sancy to the sub-alpine hills of the Cantal, walks are sustained by a refreshing supply of Auvergne mineral water and wonderful local specialities ranging from fragrant cheeses to rustic meat stews - this mammoth walking holiday offers something for everyone! Daily departures from London available now till October 2008.

From Clermont-Ferrand, transfer by train to an old spa-town, Mont Dore. From here, ride out of the valley on a 100- year-old funicular railway, take the modern telepherique, or just walk - following a trail across the rocky snow-capped Sancy range to Super Besse ski-resort. Next, climb to Lac Pavin, a crater–lake situated on a high grassy plateau, dotted with pinewoods. Continue on past herds of dark brown Salers cattle, whose milk is used to produce the excellent regional cheeses, before reaching the small hill-town of Egliseneuve d'Entraygues. Descend along winding paths and through wooded valleys, passing pretty Romanesque churches en route. Reaching high verdant pastureland, enticing views of the approaching Cantal range are on offer. A much needed rest is taken in Le Claux, where the day can be spent exploring on foot, by bike, horse riding or even hang-gliding. Alternatively, enjoy a swim in the hotel pool or sit in the garden and rest those weary legs! Later, head into higher mountains, to Breche de Roland, a cleft in the hillside that requires exciting scrambling - the solidified central core of the volcano, the Puy Griou, is now visible. Continue climbing to join Teton de Venus circuit on the old crater of Bec de l'Aigle before descending into the picturesque winding streets of 15th century Murat for the final night. Return by train to Clermont-Ferrand for homeward flights next day.

The holiday costs from £765 p/p including hotels and gite d'etape accommodation, some meals, daily luggage transfers, route notes and maps.

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