A cycle tour through the Most Beautiful Villages of Corrèze

Set off on an unforgettable cycling adventure through four of Corrèze’s ‘Most Beautiful Villages’! This loop of around 80 km will take you through Turenne and its medieval fortress, Curemonte and its three châteaux, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, the ‘Limousin Riviera’, and Collonges-la-Rouge, the birthplace of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Allow a full day to make the most of every stage of this challenging cycle route, setting off early in the morning whilst it’s still cool.

A few tips for this cycle loop in Corrèze

Cycling 80 km isn’t something you can just wing it! Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your adventure through four of the Plus Beaux Villages de France. Firstly, try to set off outside peak tourist seasons so you can cycle at your own pace and enjoy every stage of the journey.

Practical information:

• Distance: 83.9 km in 4 stages
• Minimum altitude: 130m / Maximum altitude: 305m

Next, whilst there are no Alpine or Pyrenean passes on the itinerary, to make the most of this cycle loop through the Most Beautiful Villages of Corrèze, we still recommend that you plan your route carefully.

Plan regular breaks to discover the cultural and historical treasures of each village. Don’t forget to take water and snacks with you to stay hydrated and energised throughout your journey. 

Finally, for an even more rewarding experience, check local websites and tourist information centres to find out about events and activities taking place during your visit. Have a great ride!

Stage 1 (start): Turenne → Curemonte (18.2 km)

Your adventure in Corrèze begins with a visit to Turenne, an ancient viscounty perched on a limestone hill just 16 km south of Brive-la-Gaillarde. Make the most of the beautiful morning light to climb up to the ancient fortress of Turenne and, as you go, admire the lovely limestone houses with their slate roofs.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to a spectacular 360° view: on one side, the meandering Dordogne valley, and on the other, the Auvergne mountains silhouetted against the horizon. Don’t miss a visit to the castle ruins, the former residence of the powerful Viscounts of Turenne, which bear witness to this village’s historical significance in the Middle Ages.

On the way to Curemonte:

• The Ligneyrac walnut oil mill, a stop-off to discover the secrets of walnut oil production.
• The Saillac Walnut Museum, dedicated to this iconic fruit of the Corrèze.
• The Branceilles wine cellar, a tasting stop where you can sample local wines.

Stage 2: Curemonte → Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne (14.9 km)

From the Route des Crêtes, you’ll reach Curemonte at its most picturesque: at the foot of the towers of its three medieval castles, which watch over the village, surrounded by winegrowers’ houses and Renaissance mansions, forming a harmonious whole. These landscapes undoubtedly inspired Colette during her stay in the region.

As you stroll through this village perched above the lush green valleys of the Sourdoire and the Maumont, you’ll discover three churches, including the Romanesque Church of Saint-Barthélémy, as well as three historic fountains, bearing witness to the craftsmanship of the village’s former inhabitants. After a well-deserved picnic or lunch at one of the two local establishments, it will be time to head to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, a journey of just under 30 km.

On the way to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne:

• The Neanderthal Museum in La Chapelle-aux-Saints, where the first almost-complete skeleton of this prehistoric species was discovered.

Stage 3: Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne → Collonges-la-Rouge (35.9 km)

A refreshing break awaits you in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, nicknamed the ‘Limousin Riviera’. Perched on the right bank of the Dordogne, this medieval village reveals its charm as you follow the river. Take the time for a swim or a trip on a gabare (45 mins), a traditional boat that will allow you to admire the village from a different angle.

Back on dry land, explore this charming village with its 9th-century Saint-Pierre abbey church, famous for its carved tympanum, and its elegant 15th- and 16th-century sandstone houses. Come spring, you can sample the local speciality – strawberries – for a tasty treat before setting off again towards Collonges-la-Rouge.

On the way to Collonges-la-Rouge:

• Le Puy d’Arnac, a superb vantage point with an orientation board, from which to admire the surrounding countryside.
• The Col de la Jeanne, the highest point on your route.
• Meyssac, with its half-timbered houses and its old market hall, where a traditional market is held.

Stage 4: Collonges-la-Rouge → Turenne (14.9 km)

Finally, from the departmental road (D38), the silhouette of Collonges-la-Rouge emerges against a backdrop of lush greenery, creating striking contrasts with its purple sandstone façades. As soon as you arrive, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Collonges-la-Rouge, the birthplace of the ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ association.

This must-see destination in the Corrèze region captivates with its harmonious blend of imposing buildings topped with broad slate or stone roofs, its castles and stately homes, its old market halls, and its Romanesque Saint-Pierre church. Stroll through its bustling streets and treat yourself to a browse in the shops selling local produce before enjoying a gourmet break at the Relais Saint-Jacques, where you can sample cuisine showcasing local flavours. Then, set off again towards Turenne, with your eyes and taste buds full of wonderful memories.

On the way to Turenne:

• Noailhac, with its church featuring a bell tower typical of the Bas-Limousin region.

Ready to discover the Most Beautiful Villages of Corrèze? Plan your itinerary today and enjoy an unforgettable experience!

Fancy going even further?

Would you like to extend the experience and discover other ‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’ by bike? Whether you have your own bike or need to hire one, there are plenty of options available to set off on an adventure along the country’s most beautiful routes.

Train + bike: the perfect combination for a different kind of journey! Discover our holiday ideas specially designed to offer you an adventure combining nature, heritage and sustainable travel, and start planning your next getaway!