The Auvergne is the French region producing the largest number of "PDO" labelled cheeses ("Protected Designation of Origin") guaranteeing their character and high quality. Only 38 cheeses among the hundreds to be found in the French regions are covered by this status, and 5 of these are from the Auvergne. These "stars" of the cheese world are also joined by the Gaperon, Carré d’Aurillac, Tomme de Rochefort and others.

This marvellously diverse range of cheeses is directly related to the abundance and diversity of the plant life to be found in the region's grasslands and pastures. It is said that some cheeses were already being produced here 2000 years ago! Cheese remains a key aspect of the Auvergne's culture and traditions.

You'll have plenty of opportunities to taste them, and the Cheese Trail makes this especially easy. All you need to do is follow the signs marked "Route des Fromages" (cheese trail) to visit the farmers or ripeners in their farms and dairies. Here, you'll find all the explanations you could possibly want concerning the production chain, from milking through to tasting.
To prepare your visit it couldn't be easier. Simply visit the English language version of the website at  http://www.fromages-aop-auvergne.com/?lang=en

Pour préparer vos visites, rien de plus facile,
consultez le site de La Route des Fromages d'Auvergne