REGION FOCUS

Dominating the region is the Parc Naturel Régional Millevaches a place where lovers of nature, culture and watersports feel at home. A literal translation of the name Millevaches, implies a nature reserve with a thousand cows? However, in this case, it means a ‘thousand sources’, a reference to the many lakes and watercourses to be found in the area. It is located about 30 minutes’ drive east of the region’s capital city of Limoges, on the border of the Haute Vienne and the Corrèze departments.

The river Vienne flows through the Parc Naturel, and with the many lakes, picturesque towns and villages with their cozy restaurants, this is a great place to visit. From simple walks and cycling to athletic hikes and biking, the Park has many trails and paths to help you explore its natural treasures

The largest lake in the Parc Naturel is the Lac de Vassivière. This reservoir of almost 10 km² includes an island in the middle that can be reached via a bridge. Here you will find a small castle… it’s an ideal spot to have a picnic. The lake is popular with water sports enthusiasts and provides a great environment for canoeing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding and just generally ‘messing about’ on the water. With several sandy beaches, it is also an ideal place to take the kids and if they are slightly older for a bike ride around the lake – 25 miles (Editor: That’ll wear them out!!).

The Mont Gargan rises 731 metres and dominates the Parc offering a dramatic 360-degree view of the open rolling countryside. During WWII, this was the site of a battle between local resistance fighters and a German army unit.

Something for everyone

If you crave some culture, the town of Eymoutiers nestling on the banks of the Vienne is definitely worth a visit. Here you will find a museum featuring the striking works of the artist Paul Rebeyrolle, who was born in the town. This pretty town is endowed with many dine period houses, old tanners' quarters, and wooded areas, it really is a charming place and a great location to take a few photos. The old church, pretty squares and the buzzing Saturday market are just a click away!

Follow the Vienne valley north-westwards out of Eymoutiers and you will come to the town of Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, which has one of the most beautiful churches in the Limousin. The Romanesque collegiate church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Santiago de Compostela, a legendary pilgrimage route that winds through the region. Walking through the squares and narrow streets of the town, visitors will discover beautiful old houses surrounding the magnificent medieval century church which is topped by a remarkable bell tower.

Below the town, the banks of the Vienne River are really pretty and the old 13th-century bridge makes for a beautiful setting. There is also a regular flea market (vide-grenier) where you can pick up a bargain or two for that new home of yours in the region.