Only one day after leaving Issoire, we were forced away from the Allier because we could not find suitable camping grounds or restaurants along the river, at least not close enough together for us as walkers. The great metropolis of Clermont-Ferrand to the west seemed to have a deadening effect on its surroundings.
Instead we went into the hills to the east, and discovered the hidden gem of Billom, then the wonderfully hospitable camping ground at Pont-Astier, and finally returned (or almost) to the river at Puy-Guillaume.
During this section the weather turned warm at last, and by the time we reached Puy-Guillaume summer had definitely arrived.
Day 8: Issoire to Longues
Day 9: Longues to Billom
Day 10: Billom to Pont Astier
Day 11: Pont Astier to Puy-Guillaume