Cantal

Extinct volcanic mountain range in central France which gives its name to Cantal département. The highest peaks are the Plomb du Cantal (1,858 m/6,096 ft), accessible by ski-lift from the winter sport centres of Le Lioran and Super-Lioran, and the Puy Mary (1,783 m/5,850 ft).

Streams rising in these mountains form tributaries with the Allier, Dordogne, and Tryère rivers, which are used for hydroelectric power generation.

Cantal

Département in the Auvergne region of central France; area 5,741 sq km/ 2,217 sq mi; population (1999 est) 150,800. Cantal takes its name from the mountain range in the region. The principal towns are Aurillac (the capital), Mauriac, and St-Flour. Agriculture is the main economic activity; cattle are reared, and rye, potatoes, and chestnuts are grown. A hard cheese named after the département is produced.

Cantal lies within an extensive area of the Massif Central that is comprised of extinct volcanoes; the highest peaks are Plomb du Cantal (1,858 m/6,096 ft) and Puy Mary (1,787 m/5,863 ft). The two main rivers are the Truyère and the Dordogne.