A GUIDE TOTHE LIMOUSINCentral France

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Known as the traditional heart of the ‘real’ France, the Limousin is one of the country’s smallest regions and is made up of three ‘departments’ – La Creuse, Haute Vienne and Correze. It has one of the lowest populations in France and it remains one of the most unspoilt areas in the whole of Europe, which is proving increasingly popular for those looking for a unique holiday or even to own a property.

The country’s capital Paris is 350kms away to the North, with the region enjoying fantastic road and rail links to the capital and south to cities such as Toulouse, as well as links to various European countries via the regions airports.

This booklet, prepared by Barrasford and Bird Worldwide, offers an insight into this stunning region and will give you a flavour into the wonders on offer, from the natural activities you and the whole family can enjoy through to tasting the incredible cuisine that is famous worldwide.

We hope you enjoy finding out more on this amazing area!

THE LIMOUSINThe ‘Real’ France

THE LIMOUSIN REGION

Historic Sites Tour de Bridiers

Crozant

Lakes Etand de la Grande Cazine

Lac de Saint Pardoux

Lac D’Eguzon

Zoos & Gardens Parc du Reynou

Les Loups de Chabrieres

Aquarium du Limousin

Arboretum de La Sédelle

Adventure Labyrinthe Géant de Monts de Gueret

Aventure Parc Aubazine

D’Arbre en Arbre

Museums, Arts & Theatre Fondation d’entreprise Bernardaud

Cite des Metiers et des Arts

Musee des Distilleries Limougeaudes

Musee Adrien Dubouche

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Bellac

Tulle

Gueret

PARIS

Oradour-Sur-Glane

La Souterraine

Le-Dorat

Saint Benoit Du Sault

LIMOGES

FRANCE

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CREUSE

CORREZE

HAUTE-VIENNE

Equestrian To the South of Limoges, Pompadour is world famous as the birthplace of the Anglo-Arabian horse breed. Three race courses, internationally respected horse events, breeding farms and numerous other equestrian activities all contribute to making the Limousin an ideal vacation destination for horse lovers. Many well maintained bridleways cross the region.

CyclingAs a result of the low population and the predominantly rural economy, there are acres of forest and fields to cycle through. The region has produced some reasonably well known cyclists, the most prominent being Raymond Poulidar. Other well-known cyclists include Mark Durant and Daniel Ceulemans.

On or off-road the region is perfect - roads where you are more likely to meet a cow than a car; marked trails and downhill runs through forests and open countryside that carry on for kilometres.

In the AirThe favourable climate allows some breathtaking air-based activities such as hot air ballooning, gliding, paragliding, light aircraft and even model aircraft. The popularity of this is increasing and it’s certainly an adrenaline fuelled way to experiencing the Limousin!

ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY

Water SportsThe plentiful waterways that cross the Limousin are also very popular with canoeists, kayakers, swimmers and even sailors!

Walking

Take in the wonderful regional landscapes with a hundreds of walks across the stunning landscapes. The historic pilgrimage route of ‘Santiago de Compostela’ passes through the region, crossing through towns such as La Souterraine.

Walking in the region is an ideal opportunity to get into the heart of the scenery and really feel part of the environment, from lush forests to remote countryside dotted with quaint villages, historical monuments and rural parks.

The global ‘GeoCaching’ craze is also sweeping across the region – using a smartphone or hiking GPS.

FishingFishing is very popular in France and given that this area is known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’, it’s not surprising that the Limousin offers some of the best fishing in the country with many well stocked lakes and rivers available for recreational fishing. The region is famous for its weighty catches, including pike and catfish.

LimogesLimoges, capital of the Limousin region, is well worth a visit. This medium-sized city boasts some architecturally impressive buildings, with the most notable being the train station, the town hall and the splendid gothic Cathedral of Saint-Etienne. Wander through the centre’s quaint cobbled streets or enjoy some excellent shopping in the stylish Gallery Lafyette and Centre St. Martial. Other points of interest include various porcelain museums and the Museum of the Resistance.

La SouterraineThe small and ancient town of La Souterraine, in the north of the Limousin, was founded by the monks of Limoges’ St Martial Abbey. Enjoy a walk around the quaint local shops before visiting the gothic church, Gallo-Roman crypt and St. John’s Gate. La Souterraine has strong connections to the ‘Santiago de Compostela’ pilgrimage route and offers a pleasant selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a locally prepared meal or snack.

Brive-la-GaillardeNestled in the Dordogne Valley this is known to be a bold town with many fortifications, which eludes to its historic importance. You can visit countless ancient monuments and characterful neighbourhoods, with townhouses dating back to the 14th century. The town’s centre is a particular highlight, with The Echevins Renaissance tower, St Libéral chapel and the 12th century St Martin collegiate church all worth seeing. There’s a lot to do in the town!

TulleTulle in the south is surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear water making it an ideal place to wind down or take up countless outdoor activities. Like many places in the Limousin, history has shaped the town. It’s a town full of culture, with many renowned festivals, art and craft exhibitions and a huge amount of local associations. If you pair this with hundreds of small streets, a beautiful riverside, quaint shops and stunning buildings, then you have one of the most enjoyable towns in the whole region.

TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Saint Benoit du SaultNamed as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France, Saint Benoit du Sault owes its origins to benedictine monks who resided in the area during the 10th century, having chosen this site on a raised rocky outcrop because of its defensive advantage. Meander along pretty narrow streets of medieval houses, dating from the 15th-16th century before visiting the fortified town gate, belfry, priory and fort.

Le-DoratHaving originally borne four grand gates, just one entrance now remains to this small town. Inside what is left of the 15th century defensive walls, wander down attractive streets of medieval houses with the the Collegiale Saint-Pierre towering above you. This Roman church features an octagonal bell tower, a shorter square tower and an 11th century crypt.

Oradour-sur-GlaneThe village of Oradour-sur-Glane was completely destroyed by the SS on June 10th 1944. Most of the village - 642 innocent men, women and children were killed and Oradour-Sur- Glane has been preserved exactly as it was as a memorial to the victims. Delapidated cars, wrecked machinery and gutted buildings exist today exactly as they were left. A guided tour of this historically significant village is recommended and the visitors centre features a fantastic library.

BellacThe 13th century bridge across the tranquil River Vincou gives a lovely view across Bellac, a small town which holds traditional markets a few times every week. Take in the ancient houses, the remains of the original town walls and the impressive 17th century town hall. Religious monuments here include the 13th century Church of Notre-Dame de Bellac and two smaller chapels. There is also an old leather factory here which has been turned into an interesting museum. Bellac offers a beautiful treelined walk down to the Vincou river by descending manmade paths in the cliff face.

THE BEAUTY OF THE LIMOUSIN

Tour de BridiersLocated on a hilltop on the outskirts of La Souterraine and surrounded by steep slopes and wetlands, Bridiers Tower was built in the 13th century following the collapse of its predecessor in 1202. Nearly 25 metres in height, the tower enjoys a purpose built glass floor at the top, allowing visitors to look right down through the building’s hollow centre to the ground below.

The Tour de Bridiers becomes a veritable hive of activity during the summer months as it is the annual home to a spectacular historical display depicting life in the area during Medieval times.

CrozantThe ruins of Château de Crozant, which rests on top of a rocky outcrop largely surrounded by a natural moat, was one of the most powerful fortresses of France during the Middle Ages. Enjoy beautiful walks around Crozant Valley and take in the spectacular views across the gorge. The site gave its name to the school of impressionist painters ‘Crozant’ and inspired many nineteenth Century artists including Monet (who painted over 20 works here) and Guillaumin. Hundreds of painters flock here to follow in the footsteps, setting up their canvases along the Creuse river.

HISTORIC SITES

ENJOY BEAUTIFUL WALKS AROUND CROZANT VALLEY AND TAKE IN THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS ACROSS THE GORGE

LAKES

Etang de la Grande CazineSituated a short distance from the luxury Halcyon Retreat Golf and Spa Resort near the town of La Souterraine, Etang de la Grande Cazine is an expansive lake surrounded by open countryside and lush green forests. Known across France as one of the country’s best fishing lakes, visitors here enjoy fishing, walking, swimming or simply relaxing at the water’s edge and taking in the beautiful views. A footpath leads from the lake back to the arboretum at Halcyon Retreat and on to La Souterraine.

Lac de Saint PardouxThis expansive lake of over 300 hectares boasts three of its own beaches and some fifty miles of marked trails for hikers to explore. Take in the tranquillity of the site, which is bustling with wildlife including an incredible selection of wild birds, numerous species of fish and an abundance of wild flowers and plants. The lake is also fantastic for swimming and watersports.

Lac d’EguzonSet in a charming and peaceful landscape in the north of the Limousin, Lac d’Eguzon is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch on a warm summer’s day. There are numerous sites for leisure and sporting activities around this large and placid lake including swimming, sailing, water-skiing, canoeing, climbing, horse riding and more. In 1926 when this lake was formed, several mills, a part of Chambon village and the bridge linking Chambon with Fougères were submerged. When the lake was emptied, most recently in 1988, ghostly remains of the houses here could still be seen and the bridge is still perfectly preserved.

Parc du ReynouLocated at Vigen, a short drive from Limoges, this landscaped garden and zoo has more than 100 species of animals on display in an impressive area of around 35 hectares. Animals on display range from lemurs and zebra, to lions, tigers and panthers. The park is divided into sections representing the environments where the animals would have lived in the wild.

Les Loups de ChabrieresObserve European, Albertan and Mackensian wolf packs in a natural environment at this wildlife and nature park perfectly set in the Chabrières forest. The park puts on exhibitions and events throughout the year and visitors can observe the wolves feeding at set times daily. The park has its own museum as well as an observatory with a 450mm telescope.

Aquarium du LimousinLocated in the unique architectural setting of an ancient underground water reservoir within the vaulted city of Limoges, visitors to the Aquarium du Limousin will enjoy watching a range of underwater creatures ranging from hermit crabs and starfish to piranhas, electric fish, sharks and even crocodiles! A great family trip out.

Arboretum de La SédelleInitially an agricultural valley turned fallow for 30 years, the Arboretum de la Sédelle has been reclaimed to create a beautiful botanical landscape open to the public. In spring, flowers including camelias, magnolias and cherry dot the landscape and these are followed by rhododendrons, sweetly aromatic roses and hydrangeas during the summer months. Autumn here is truly vibrant, with the blazing colours of maple, sweet gum and dogwood inflaming the valley.

ZOOS AND GARDENS

ANIMALS ON DISPLAY RANGE FROM LEMURS AND ZEBRA, TO LIONS, TIGERS AND PANTHERS

REGIONAL NATURE PARKS

IF YOU LOVE NATURE THEN THE PARK IS ALMOST PERFECT

Millevaches en Limousin This majestic area of moorland and beautifully preserved forests, Millevaches en Limousin includes breathtaking features from plateaus to the higher Corrèze valley, natural streams to high hills. If you love nature then the park is almost perfect. It’s also home to some rare species of wildlife, including otters, butterflies, harrier eagles and even pearl mussels, all accompanied by migrating birds at certain times of the year. Historic features scatter the park, from Roman ruins to roadside crosses and museums.

Vassivière lake is perhaps the most impressive feature of the park, with over 45kms of shores to explore. With 8 beaches, it’s a haven for walking, water sports and even horse riding. The lake even has a unique island where you can enjoy France’s second largest collection of sculptures, old farming estate and castle.

Périgord-LimousinTo the west of Limoges, running across the border between Aquitaine and Limousin, the Périgord Limousin nature park has a preserved environment, a compact dimension and a rich heritage. It’s well known for its variety of activities and festivals, from glove-making to even a circus. In contrast to Millevaches’ streams, Périgord-Limousin features white water rivers alongside Chestnut tree woodlands, valleys and a limestone plateau. Flora and fauna species are plentiful, including over 16 types of bat and well over 100 bird species.

There’s something for everyone here, from museums to the Richard the Lion Heart trail. There’s even “vélo rail” – a pedal car on an old railway line!

ADVENTURE

THE MORE ADVENTUROUS MIGHT EVEN LIKE TO TRY OUT BUNGEE JUMPING AT THIS POPULAR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARK.

Labyrinthe Géant de Monts de GueretThe world’s largest permanent vegetable maze, Labyrinthe Géant de Monts de Gueret is spread across a massive 2 hectares and is sure to provide great fun for visitors of all ages. Once you’ve managed to navigate your way around the maze, children will love to visit the Labyrinthe’s petting zoo, giant outdoor slides and exciting zip wire.

Aventure Parc AubazineThis adventure park is perfect for all ages to enjoy, with varying levels of outdoor trails for both children and adults. The more adventurous might even like to try out bungee jumping at this popular outdoor adventure park.

D’Arbre en ArbreA great morning or afternoon out, hop from tree to tree at D’Arbre en Arbre using suspended footbridges, creepers and plenty of additional treetop apparatus! 90 different activities are available here with five junior / adult circuits and two made especially for children.

Theatre and CultureThe Limoges area is bustling with culture and events, with a number of local theatres and cultural centres putting on performances and hosting live events throughout the year.

Authentic Limousin flavoursThe Limousin is globally recognized for its fine dining and top quality produce from meat to mushrooms. As a result, restaurants across the Limousin, for example the Michelin-starred ‘Chateau de la Cazine’, are famous for their mouth watering dishes. Some produce is given labels of local authenticity - “Indication

Géographique Protégée”, “Label Rouge Blason Prestige” and “Appellation d’Origine Protégée”. These products, such as local apple juice, are available across the markets as well as restaurants.

The region is known for a think soup called bréjaude, made with cabbage and other vegetables. Traditional dishes include a variety of stews such as potée, cabbage stew, cassoulet, beans and pork and sauced dishes, accompanied by chestnuts or rye pancakes. To many, the ‘Limousin beef’ is one of the real highlights of the regions cuisine. Desserts include thick home made cakes: clafoutis with cherries, flaugnarde with apples, galette Corrézienne and the almond cake of the Creuse.

THE LIMOUSIN IS GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED FOR ITS FINE DINING AND TOP QUALITY PRODUCE

ARTS AND CUISINE

MUSEUMS & CRAFTS

Fondation d’entreprise BernardaudArtists and designers travel from all over the world to work in Limoges, which is renowned for its expert porcelain production. Take a guided tour of the Bernardud Porcelain Factory and enjoy a live demonstration of manufacturing and decorating techniques, before purchasing any items of interest from the factory outlet.

Cite des Metiers et des ArtsThis bustling centre is packed with arts and handicrafts, all produced by local artisans. With a series of displays held here regularly, visitors will learn about traditional techniques and how artists and craftspeople here produce their work.

Musee Adrien DuboucheThis museum of Limoges porcelain displays porcelain, pottery, stoneware, tin-glazed earthenware and glass.

Musee des Distilleries LimougeaudesThis traditional distillery, founded in 1789 and still fully functioning, testifies to the ancestral knowhow of the 48 distilleries that existed in Limoges in 1900. Free tasting!

TAKE A GUIDED TOUR OF THE BERNARDUD PORCELAIN FACTORY AND ENJOY A LIVE DEMONSTRATION

© Barrasford and Bird Worldwide