The Limousin is one of the most picturesque regions of France, however it remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Named the "Green Heart of France", this region of central France is characterised by lush pastures, rolling hills and untamed forests. Steeped in a long history of agriculture, quaint hamlets containing old stone buildings dot the countryside. The numerous lakes and rivers provide a great location for those keen on water sports, while others can explore the region on foot, horseback or bike.

The area of La Correze has the highest density of waterfalls, gorges, rivers and lakes in the region, making it a popular destination for windsurfers, water skiers, canoeists, sailors, kayakers and holidaymakers looking for a beach to relax on. Visit Lake Vassiviere, the largest man-made lake in France, for great sailing and swimming. Bike ride or horse ride on the shores of the lake, or test your courage at "Arbre en Arbre"- a treetop adventure park that kids will love. The Limousin is a fisherman's paradise, with rivers full of a wide variety of fish including trout, trench, roach, carp, and pike.

Staying in one of our Limousin properties also allows you to explore the ancient towns of the region. The largest towns of the area are Limoges, Guéret, La Souterraine and Aubusson. Limoges and Guéret are world-famous for their porcelain factories, shops and museums. Both also boast farmers markets full of local produce from the surrounding farmland. If these interest you, be sure to visit the market town of La Souterraine, whose medieval ramparts are still intact. Admire the delicate art of tapestry making and restoration in Aubusson, for which it has been famous since the 14th century. While you are there, take the time to climb the hill to the ruins of a castle, which offer a great view of the town.

There are many medieval castles in the area, notably the 11th century castle of Turenne, the three castles of Cuemonte, the castles of Segur-le-Chateau, Bort-les-Orgues and Boussac. Take a tour of the Chateau de Boussac for a glimpse into the past, the castle is decorated with an exquisite collection of antiques. Many towns offer antique markets, brocantes and vide-greniers, where you can often find treasures at very reasonable prices. Two well-known ones are held in the towns of Condat-sur-Vienne and Brive-la-Gaillarde.

Other towns to visit during your Limousin holiday are Uzerche, Tulle and Oradour-sur-Glane. Uzerche is an interesting medieval town, which is surrounded on all sides by the river Vezère. In Tulle, visit the 12th century cathedral and cloister, as well as the city museum. A visit to the war-torn village of Oradour-sur-Glane, while not exactly a pleasant experience, is a deeply moving one. At the end of WWII this village was destroyed and its population massacred by the Nazis as reprisal for the actions of the French resistance. The town has been left untouched as a monument and memorial of the price of war and hatred, and is visited by thousands of tourists each year.

A vacation in the Limousin region would be incomplete without sampling the local cuisine. Winter foods such as a vegetable soup called bréjaude and stews are popular. Limousin cattle and sheep are well known for their flavour. Be sure to try the Gateau Creuseoise, a delicious almond cake.

Festivals and Events in Limousin
Aubusson - Local Cheese Fair (July)
Brive-la-Gaillarde - Festival of Communities (November)
Collonges-la-Rouge - Old time market (August)
Creuse area - "Voice of Summer" Music Festival (July/August)
Limoges - Porcelain Exhibition (July/August)
Lussac - "Bonnes Fountaines": a Folk Festival (June)
Meymac - Music Festival of the Plateau de Millevaches (August)
Pompadour - Equestrian Exhibition (August)
Saint Yriex la Perche - Music Festival (July/August)
Tulle - International Lace Festival (July/August)