Conservation Volunteering Berlin

Hike Through Märkische Schweiz – Lakes, Forests & Rolling Hills.

Politischer Diskurs - die große Rentenreform

Der politische Diskurs ist für alle diejenigen, die politische und gesellschaftliche Themen verfolgen und sich gerne darüber austauschen wollen. Wir alle wissen, dass der Vorteil einer Demokratie gegenüber autoritären Systemen darin besteht, dass Meinungen geäußert und Kritik geübt werden kann - so let's do this! Jedesmal steht ein neues, eher generelles Thema im Zentrum, über das wir uns respektvoll austauschen wollen. Im kommenden Abend geht es um die von der Rentenkommission eingereichten Vorschläge zur Rentenreform. Interessante Informationsquellen für: [Nationale_Politik](https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/podcast-106.html), [News_aus_Wirtschaft](https://open.spotify.com/show/0MqROiCw2Vl0aVqxWdPjRC?si=dioN4162TqytZm210rXpYw), [Internationale_Nachrichten](https://ground.news/) **WhatsApp Gruppenchat**: Regt dich ein Politiker / eine Argumentationslinie auf? Hast du einen Podcast gehört, den du unbedingt teilen und mit anderen besprechen willst? Möchtest du aktiv bei der Themenwahl unserer Diskussionsabende teilnehmen? Es gibt eine Whatsappgruppe. Sprich mich gerne auf einem Event an, dann füge ich dich hinzu. Wir freuen uns auf deine Ansichten! Photo by iStockphoto/Thinkstock

🐬South African Sardine Run - 1 WEEK INSIDE A NATURE DOCUMENTARY 🐋

**1 week of an exclusive, small-group ocean expedition for freedivers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts! If you love the ocean, this trip is for you.** Each year, the waters off South Africa’s Wild Coast transform into one of the planet’s most dramatic natural events. Billions of sardines migrate along the Wild Coast, making it one of the largest animal migrations on the planet. It attracts a diverse range of predators, from dolphins and sharks to whales and seabirds - all converging in a feeding spectacle few ever witness up close. The Sardine Run remains one of the most spectacular events on earth. Each day, ocean conditions, currents, and predator behavior determine what you’ll encounter. You’ll spend your days following the pulse of the sea - sometimes waiting, sometimes immersed in pure chaos and raw nature beauty. We partner with a trusted local dive operator with extensive experience running ocean expeditions along the Wild Coast. Their skilled skippers, dive crews, and wildlife spotters bring a deep understanding of the area’s conditions and marine life, ensuring safety, precision, and ethical wildlife encounters. 📅 Week 1: 5-12 July 2026, Week 2: 13-20 July 2026 📍Wild Coast, South Africa 👥 Max 7 guests · small group only 🤿 Open to freedivers, snorkelers & ocean enthusiasts WHAT'S INCLUDED ✅ 6 full days on the water ✅ 7 nights at Eco Swell Lodge (private en-suite chalet, ocean views) ✅ All meals · freediving gear · expert local crew ✅ Professional marine photography + 1 trip video ✅ Transport to/from Mthatha Airport ✅ Massage included 🙌 We will freedive & snorkel. Good swimming skills and comfort in the open ocean are what matter. 🎥 Watch my documentary from the last Sardine Run here: https://youtu.be/Wid5LHZGChg?si=HxeYvCBfHssgo0Wl 🌊 Full details & booking: Week 1: https://jmt.li/UIbXB6 Week 2: https://jmt.li/92nyMG DM me or comment below with any questions -happy to chat! 🐠

KREATIV UNTAPPED #2 • Character Design Untapped w/ DARED • Register via Luma

### [KREATIV UNTAPPED](https://www.kreativuntapped.com) #2 Character Design Untapped w/ DARED **\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/du8y2e26](https://luma.com/du8y2e26)** ***Create Your Own Street Character \| A hands\-on Session*** ⚠️ **REGISTER ON LUMA → [https://luma.com/du8y2e26](https://luma.com/du8y2e26)** **Meetup is an announcement channel only. Please register on Luma. 👆** Everyone's talking about AI replacing jobs. But here's what AI can't replace: the human desire to create. Creativity is what makes us uniquely human — it's a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs training. And this, our second session, is about giving a character a face, a mood, and a story. [KREATIV UNTAPPED](https://www.kreativuntapped.com) is a creative playground born in Berlin, where anyone can unlock their creativity, activate new synapses, and meet people through making. Each session pairs a working practitioner with a different creative discipline and gives you a hands-on way to try it — this time, character design with Berlin street artist [DARED](https://www.the-berliner.com/art/berlin-street-artist-dared-french-bulldog-fox-paste-up-graffiti/). No job title. No prior experience. Just the willingness to tap in. **This session — Character Design Untapped w/ DARED** [DARED](https://www.the-berliner.com/art/berlin-street-artist-dared-french-bulldog-fox-paste-up-graffiti/)'s work lives between urban art, storytelling and contemporary illustration. He's best known for his ongoing *Red Forest* narrative and its cast — Faye Rêverie, Phatty, Batsy and Bymo — found on walls, canvases and out in public space. See more of his work on Instagram: [@dared.artist](https://www.instagram.com/dared.artist/). ***How do you create a character with personality and real recognizability?*** Step by step, you'll build your own — from simple shapes to facial expression and body language, all the way to a short backstory. Along the way, DARED opens up his creative process and shows how the *Red Forest* characters came to life. Beginners and experienced drawers equally welcome. **What to bring** We'd love for you to bring your own materials — a sketchpad, pencils and an eraser, fineliners or markers. Drawing with tools you love makes all the difference. And if you can't, no worries: we'll provide A4 paper and a black pen for everyone. **Agenda** * 18:30 – 19:00 · Check-in * 19:00 – 19:15 · Intro — what [KREATIV UNTAPPED](https://www.kreativuntapped.com) is and why we're here * 19:15 – 20:15 · Hands-on character design session with DARED * 20:15 – 20:45 · Group sharing round — show your character, share its story, your takeaway * 20:45 – 20:50 · Wrap-up & what's next * 20:50 – 21:30 · Networking 📅 **Wednesday, 8 July 2026 · 18:30 – 22:00** 📍 **Thoughtworks Berlin · Revaler Str. 31 (Event Space), 10245 Berlin** *(walking distance from S Ostkreuz)* **— ADDITIONAL NOTES —** **Donation-based event** This event is donation-based — give what feels right. Your contribution supports building KREATIV UNTAPPED into something lasting. Donations are non-refundable. **Photos & video** We'll be taking photos and potentially videos throughout the evening. By attending, participants agree that visual material may be used for promotional purposes. Anyone who prefers not to be photographed can let us know on arrival. ——————————————— 🎟 **REGISTRATION IS ON LUMA — IT'S THE ONLY WAY TO SECURE YOUR SPOT:** **👉 [https://luma.com/du8y2e26](https://luma.com/du8y2e26)** ——————————————— No job title. No prior experience. Just the willingness to tap in. ***Creativity untapped. Connection for real.*** Subscribe to our newsletter at kreativuntapped.com Follow us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped)

Spreewald Canoe Tour: Discover the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on Water

***Canoe around the Spreewald river delta. Charismatic, quiet and sprinkled with the occasional beer garden. Enjoy nature at the UNESCO reserve.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [BOOK HERE](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/spreewald-canoe/) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the beautiful **Lübbenau/Spreewald** region, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant city of Berlin, where we'll embark on a thrilling canoe (mix of Canoe's or Kayak) tour through the **UNESCO biosphere reserve**. Immerse yourself in the untouched nature as we paddle through the winding waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and enchanting landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the **Spreewald** region, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. During the tour, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the area, making this journey not just visually stunning but also intellectually enriching. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a refreshing escape from the city, this canoe tour is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! Book your spot now and get ready to paddle your way through the wonders of the **Spreewald** biosphere reserve. **TRIP DETAILS** **Meeting Location and Time:** * **Option A - Joining from Berlin:** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (Berlin Hbf) at 8:00 am. * **Option B - Joining at Lübbenau:** Meet outside Lübbenau Train Station at 9:30 am. **Note:** The exact platform in Berlin Hbf will be advised the day before the trip in the WhatsApp group for this trip. Please advise if you do not have WhatsApp and can make alternate arrangement to keep you in the loop. **Finishing Location and Time:** * **Option A - Finishing in Berlin:** Berlin Hbf at 7:00pm * **Option B - Finishing in Lübbenau:** Lübbenau Train Station at 5:00 pm **Distance:** 6 km of canoeing, 7 hours from start to closing, incl., around 3 - 4 hours of paddling and multiple breaks. **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy - walking on marked paths, relaxed pace / easy canoe paddling **Kid Friendly:** Yes **What is Included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guiding while canoeing. * **Canoe rental.** * Life jackets provided (if required). * Transportation to and from Berlin (based on the ticket option selected). * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **Additional Things of Note:** * Space is very limited for this trip as we only have a very limited number of Canoe's. **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **8:00 AM -** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (exact location to be advised in WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants) **8:20 AM** \- Board train for Lubbenau \(Spreewald: RE 2 to Cottbus\) **9:30 AM** \- Get off at Lubbenau and head to boat pickup location **10:00 AM** \- Arrive at boat pickup location **10:30 AM** \- Start canoeing **1:00 PM** \- Break for lunch in an old pub with a beer garden **2:00 PM -** Start canoeing after lunch **4:00 PM -** Get back to boat pickup location to drop off the boats. **4:30 PM** \- Start heading towards Lubbennau Train Station **5:00 PM** \- Arrive in Lubbenau Train Station **5:30 PM** \- Catch train for Berlin **7:00 PM** \- Arrive in Berlin Central Train Station \(Berlin hbf\) **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

2v2 Intermediate+ Beach Volley 💪

Join us for intermediate and advanced play on outdoor 2v2 courts. If you are not yet at the intermediate level (F1+) or want to play 3v3/4v4, sign up via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) instead. We play with beach rules: do not use open hands for the first or last touches, do not touch the net, etc. We overbook slightly to ensure we have enough players and to allow individuals to take breaks. After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area. It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better. You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts. Join our WhatsApp community by asking J for an invite after the event. Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball) **Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease. **Venue**: We play at BeachMitte. There are changing rooms, toilets, and hot water showers that cost 1 EUR. There are no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks. **Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible. **Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even in cases where the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. You get a full refund if the event gets canceled due to poor attendance. Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed. By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in park volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs. Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)

Nature Journaling for Birdwatchers: Summer Series

Nature Journaling is designed to teach you how to turn your field observations into confident drawings. The course leads you from basics of gesture drawing that allows you to express bird movement, through proportions to layout and composition, providing you with everything you need to keep a personal birdwatching journal – instead of just filling up pre-printed pages. *Curious?* Have a look here: [maxmartiskova.com/sketching-for-birdwatchers](http://maxmartiskova.com/sketching-for-birdwatchers) **What will we focus on?** 06.06. Observation Skillset 13.06. Gesture Drawing & Geometry 20.06. Light and Shadow in Observation 27.06. Colour Use & Field Techniques 04.07. Layout & Composition for Storytelling 11.07. Visual Coding 18.07. Lettering & Writing (Extra): Field Session – this is a voluntary and free field trip, organised based on participants’ availability and interest Everyone is welcome to join the field session, regardless of how many workshop classes they attended. The aim is simply to come together, share knowledge, and practice the skills developed throughout the workshop. **Material:** * All drawing material is provided. * Sketchbooks should be purchased before the course by the participants! Please bring a minimum A5 landscape/portrait sketchbook with hard-cover binding. **Booking: [Please book here directly with Maximiliána Martišková.](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/maxmartiskova/2150834)** * Loyalty discount: While each session has to be booked individually, those who choose to attend regularly receive loyalty pricing as a thank-you for the last couple of classes in the workshop series. * The sessions take place indoors in the studio of Kunstraum Heartspace. * You can join single sessions, or all together.

Evening Walk at Tiergarten – After Work Pilgrims

**After Work Pilgrims: Walk with intention.** Berlin is demanding, and the day was long. And somewhere between finishing work and the night, there's a moment where we just need to breathe. That's what After Work Pilgrims is for. We walk together through the city – through parks in the middle of all the concrete – with intention. Just a few kilometres on foot: with silence, a short reflection, and good company. It's more than a walk. But it doesn't feel like it. Duration: approx\. 2 hours \| Distance: 4–7 km \| Free No experience needed. Comfortable shoes recommended. Come as you are. *** 📅 Wed, July 8, 6:00 PM 📍 Tiergarten (Meeting point: Global Stone Project, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/ud8DAwdPKEoqR6U66](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ud8DAwdPKEoqR6U66)) 📩 You’re welcome to join our [WhatsApp group](https://www.alexander-steinfeldt.de/hikes/berlin-pilgrims/) for updates and connection before the hike. 🧭 Pilgrim Guide Alex (Mail alexander.steinfeldt@outlook.com or WhatsApp +49 157 57652601) \-\-\- **Waitlist = You're in! 😊** Currently, only 10 members can officially register on Meetup (due to the restrictions of the free version). However, you’re welcome to join the hike by joining the [Whatsapp group](https://www.alexander-steinfeldt.de/hikes/berlin-pilgrims/) for this event.

July Soothing Sketching Session at The Greens 🌿☕️

***Goal*** Join us for our monthly indoor sketching session at The Greens Café. Let's enjoy some quiet and contemplative drawing time together and let's get to know each other better and share thoughts on creative process and more 🌿 ***Schedule*** 11:00 - Arrival and chitchats 11:20 - Small warm-up activities 11:50 - Free sketching 12:45 - Share your work and thoughts

From Red Sea to Pyramids: Dahab & Cairo Adventure

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s most iconic landscapes. From starlit nights on Jabal Al-Tawilat to crystal-clear waters in Dahab, this trip is all about adventure, relaxation, and great memories. We’ll start in Dahab, exploring stunning spots like Three Pools, Wadi Gnai, the Blue Hole, Blue Lagoon, Abu Galum, Ras Shetan, and Wadi El-Weshwash. We’ll also visit Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine, enjoy a yacht day, and spend peaceful evenings by the lagoons. After Dahab, we’ll head to Cairo to discover Egypt’s legendary history. We’ll visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum, then explore Cairo’s hidden gems like Salah El-Din Citadel, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, and Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque. So get ready for your phone or Camera 📷to be full of beautiful pictures🎆 and videos📹 **[You can see the full itinerary here](https://jmt.li/TKmlHb)**

Concrete, Capital & Clay: Cottbus Architecture, Art & Hidden Pyramids

***Explore Bauhaus, DDR architecture, industrial art and Branitz’s earth pyramids on a unique Berlin-to-Cottbus day trip this summer!*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/concrete-capital-clay-cottbus-architecture](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/concrete-capital-clay-cottbus-architecture) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Most visitors pass through Brandenburg without ever discovering Cottbus, yet the city offers one of Germany’s most layered urban landscapes. In one day, you will experience: * Bauhaus-inspired architecture * DDR urban planning and socialist housing * A former power station turned art museum * Branitz Park and its famous earth pyramids * Easy regional-train access from Berlin This trip combines history, architecture, art and landscape into one compact and memorable experience. **WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** **Max Taut School** A fine example of functionalist brick architecture from the Weimar Republic, designed with clarity, purpose and modernist restraint. **DDR Urban Planning & Socialist Architecture** See how East Germany reshaped Cottbus through housing blocks, civic spaces and monumental urban design. **Kunstmuseum Dieselkraftwerk** A 1928 power station transformed into a contemporary art museum, where industrial architecture meets East German art and photography. **Historic Altmarkt** Cottbus’s old town square, ideal for lunch, coffee and a relaxed break in the city centre. **Branitz Park** A grand landscape garden by Prince Pückler, with lakes, lawns and carefully designed viewpoints. **The Earth Pyramids of Branitz** The signature sight of the day: the Lake Pyramid (Tumulus) and other remarkable earth forms that make Branitz one of Brandenburg’s most unusual landmarks. **TRIP DETAILS** **Start and End Date:** Saturday, 11 July 2026. **Meeting Location and Time:** Meet inside Berlin Ostkreuz Station at **9:00 AM.** **Note:** Exact platform location in Berlin Ostkreuz Station will be advised in the WhatsApp group for confirmed participants the day before the trip. **Finishing Location and Time:** * **Option A** – Branitz Park at **3:00 PM.** * **Option B** – Cottbus Hauptbahnhof - after free time and self-guided return (Flexible self-guided return using regular RE2 train connections). **Free Time Options:** * **Option A – Park Railway & Zoo -** Ride the historic narrow-gauge railway, operated largely by local youth volunteers, and visit Cottbus Zoo. * **Option B – Cold War Aviation Museum -** Explore Cold War fighter jets, helicopters and military history. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts and teenagers. * **Option C – Relaxed City Exploration -** Enjoy cafés, independent shops, local bakeries and the atmosphere of Cottbus’s historic centre before returning to Berlin. **Walking Distance:** Approximately 8–10 km. **Difficulty:** Easy - Urban walking, park trails and mostly flat terrain. **Suitable for:** Adults, Families, Teenagers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Photographers. **Kid Friendly:** Yes **What to Bring?** * Comfortable walking shoes * Water bottle * Weather-appropriate clothing * Camera * Sun protection * Deutschland ticket or regional train ticket **What is included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration of the trip * Guided Architecture & History Walk * Guided Visit to Industrial Art Quarter * Guided Exploration of Branitz Park * Historical & Cultural Storytelling * Access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for participants * Access to a shared Google Photos album for event photos and memories * Friendly community atmosphere and group coordination throughout the day **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp & we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **What is not included?** * Public Transport Tickets * Lunch & Personal Expenses * Museum Entry Fees (if applicable) * Snacks & Drinks **How to get there?** * Participants will travel together using public transport from Berlin to Cottbus and back. * Valid Deutschland Ticket Required. **Need Assistance?** For travel planning help or future multi-day trips, reach out directly: 📲 WhatsApp / SMS +49 152 2150 6123 +49 151 2486 7229 **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **09:00 – Meet at Berlin Ostkreuz** * Meet your guide and fellow explorers before boarding the RE2 train towards Cottbus. **10:30 – Architecture Walk Begins** * Explore the city’s blend of Weimar-era modernism and socialist urban planning. * Highlights include: Max Taut School, DDR urban development, Civic architecture, Hidden photography locations. **12:00 – Kunstmuseum Dieselkraftwerk** * Visit the impressive industrial power station turned contemporary art museum. * Discover East German art, photography and creative expression inside one of Brandenburg’s most striking industrial landmarks. **13:30 – Lunch Break at Altmarkt** * Enjoy free time in Cottbus’s historic centre. * Grab lunch, coffee or ice cream while soaking up the atmosphere of the old town. **14:30 – Branitz Park & The Pyramids** * Guided exploration of one of Germany’s most beautiful landscape parks. * Highlights include: Branitz Park, Land Pyramid, Lake Pyramid (Tumulus), Branitz Palace views, Photography opportunities\*\*.\*\* **15:00 – Guided Tour Ends** * Free time begins. * Choose your own adventure. **READY TO DISCOVER A DIFFERENT SIDE OF GERMANY?** Join us for a fascinating journey through architecture, industrial heritage, landscape art and hidden Brandenburg. Spaces are limited. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

Operation: Quicksilver Volcano – France’s Hidden Volcano Adventure

***Explore volcanoes, castle lakes & panoramic hikes in France’s wild Auvergne region with thermal spas & epic mountain views.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/quicksilver-volcano-jul2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/quicksilver-volcano-jul2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **🌿 WHY GO?** There are few places in Europe where you can climb dormant volcanoes, hike ancient Roman pilgrimage routes, relax in thermal spas, explore medieval castles by alpine lakes, and watch sunsets across endless volcanic chains — all within one unforgettable weekend. Welcome to the volcanic heartlands of **Auvergne**, one of France’s most spectacular hidden regions. This adventure takes us deep into the **Parc naturel régional des Volcans d’Auvergne**, home to dramatic volcanic peaks, panoramic mountain passes, Gothic architecture built from black lava stone, and landscapes shaped thousands of years ago by powerful eruptions. We begin our journey in **Clermont-Ferrand**, famous for its striking black volcanic cathedral and deep historical ties to the Michelin family. From there, we venture into the mountains to hike ancient volcanic trails leading to the summit of **Puy de Dôme**, where the ruins of a Roman Temple of Mercury still stand high above the clouds. The adventure continues with scenic drives through volcanic valleys, visits to fairytale castles overlooking pristine lakes, spectacular mountain hikes to panoramic summits like **Le Puy Mary**, and an unforgettable cable car ascent to **Puy de Sancy**, offering sweeping views across one of Europe’s largest volcanic landscapes. ✨ Expect: * Volcano hikes * Panoramic viewpoints * Medieval castles * Thermal spa experiences * Scenic mountain roads * Hidden French villages * Stunning sunset moments * Authentic local culture & cuisine This is the perfect escape for hikers, photographers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to experience a completely different side of France. **✨ WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** 🌋 **Puy de Dôme Volcano** Climb an ancient volcanic peak via historic Roman pilgrimage stairs and discover the ruins of the Temple of Mercury overlooking endless volcanic landscapes. ⛪ **Clermont-Ferrand** Explore the famous Gothic Cathedral built entirely from black volcanic stone and wander through one of France’s most unique historic cities. 🏞️ **Parc naturel régional des Volcans d’Auvergne** Discover one of Europe’s largest volcanic regions, home to more than **80 dormant volcanoes**, dramatic valleys, alpine meadows, and scenic mountain roads. 🏰 **Château de Val** Visit a breathtaking medieval castle rising directly beside a stunning mountain lake. ⛰️ **Le Puy Mary** Hike one of the most scenic volcanic summits in France with incredible panoramic ridge views across the Auvergne mountains. 🚠 **Puy de Sancy Cable Car** Ride a cable car high into the volcanic mountains and enjoy spectacular 360° views over endless volcanoes. ♨️ **Thermal Spa Experience** Relax after a day of adventure with an optional thermal spa experience in one of Auvergne’s famous spa towns. 🌄 **Hidden Villages & Scenic Roads** Experience charming French villages, winding mountain roads, dramatic viewpoints, and authentic local culture far away from the crowds. 📅**TRIP DETAILS** **📍Start & End Date:** Friday, 3 July – Sunday, 5 July. **📍Meeting Location & Time:** * **Option 1 :** Meet outside Paris Gare de Bercy anytime between **8 am** and **8.45 am** on Friday. Train departs at **9 am** for Clermont-Ferrand *(Perfect for participants traveling from Paris or arriving internationally).* * **Option 2:** Meet outside Clermont-Ferrand Train Station at **2 pm** on Friday. **Note:** Exact accommodation details and meeting instructions will be shared with confirmed participants closer to the trip date. **📍Finishing Location & Time:** * **Option 1 & 2:** Clermont-Ferrand Train Station (🕓Trip officially finishes around **4 pm** on Sunday). * 🚆 Recommended Latest Train: **4.25 pm** train back to Paris Gare de Bercy. **Note:** If you are arriving earlier or later, please do let us know and we can make relevant arrangements from our end. 🥾**Hiking Distance:** * 🌋 **Day 1 -** Puy de Dôme Summit Hike (📏 5.2 km⏱️ Approx. 2 hours). * ⛰️ **Day 2 -** Le Puy Mary Panorama Hike (📏 3.5 km ⏱️ Approx. 1.5 hours). * 🚠 **Day 3 -** Puy de Sancy & Volcanic Cave Exploration (Easy scenic walking & viewpoints). 💪**Hiking Difficulty:** Intermediate - Relaxed to moderate hiking pace on marked mountain trails with some elevation gain. Good fitness & sure-footedness recommended. ✅**What is Included?** * Community leader & local English speaking guide for the entire duration of the trip. * 2 Nights shared accommodation in Le Mont-Dore village with breakfast included. **Note:** Additional Accommodation Upgrade options are available as Add-on. * Transportation during the trip starting from Clermont-Ferrand. * Guided hikes to Puy de Dôme & Le Puy Mary. * Scenic volcano & mountain drives. * Visit to Château de Val. * Cable car experience to Puy de Sancy. * Access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for this event to connect with other trip mates, coordinate arrival options & stay in touch (link to WhatsApp group in the ticket). * Access to a shared Google photo album where you can share & view all amazing pictures & videos from the trip (link to Google photos album in the WhatsApp group description). **✨ Optional Add-Ons:** ♨️ Thermal Spa Experience 🛏️ Accommodation upgrades 🚆 Train tickets from Paris 🍽️ Additional meals & local experiences **🎒 Recommended Packing List:** 🥾 Hiking shoes 🎒 Day backpack 🧥 Rain jacket 🧣 Warm layer / fleece 🕶️ Sunglasses & sun protection ♨️ Swimwear (for spa option) 💧 Reusable water bottle 📸 Camera / power bank ✈️**How to get to Clermont-Ferrand Train Station?** * ✈**By Flight:** Fly into **Paris** and continue via train to Clermont-Ferrand. * 🚆 **By Train:** Direct SNCF Intercités trains connect (Paris → Clermont-Ferrand; Lyon → Clermont-Ferrand; Other major French cities). * **📲 Need assistance with flights or travel planning?** Reach out directly for customized travel support from anywhere in Europe. WhatsApp / SMS: +49 152 2150 6123 (or) +49 151 2486 7229 🗺️**WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **🌋 Day 1 – Volcanoes & Roman History:** * We meet in **Clermont-Ferrand**, explore the famous volcanic Gothic Cathedral, and head deep into the Auvergne volcano region. * Our first major adventure is the ascent to **Puy de Dôme**, climbing ancient Roman stairways through volcanic slopes to reach the summit and the fascinating ruins of the **Temple of Mercury**. * ✨ Expect breathtaking panoramic views over endless volcanoes and mountain landscapes. * Dinner & overnight stay in the mountains. **🏰 Day 2 – Castles, Volcano Peaks & Sunset Views:** * Today we journey through scenic valleys toward the spectacular **Château de Val**, a medieval castle rising beside a beautiful lake. * Later, we hike to the summit of **Le Puy Mary**, one of the most scenic volcanic viewpoints in France. * By evening, we head toward **Puy de Sancy** for optional sunset cable car views across the volcanic chain. * ♨️ Optional thermal spa relaxation available in the evening. **🌄 Day 3 – Volcanic Landscapes & Return Journey:** * Our final morning begins with another opportunity to experience the volcanic mountains around **Puy de Sancy**, including scenic viewpoints and optional short walks. * After one final taste of Auvergne’s landscapes and culture, we return to Clermont-Ferrand for onward journeys home. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)