Situated between the regions of Dordogne in the west and Auvergne in the east lies the charming department of Corrèze, set in the heart of the
Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwestern France. Named after the River Corrèze that flows through its centre, this department has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the 9th century. The capital city of Corrèze is Tulle, renowned for its importance in lace production. The "
tulle" material, frequently used for bridal veils, originated in this city. The medieval streets of the old town of Tulle are definitely worth a visit. The town's imposing cathedral, featuring a magnificent bell tower, is also a must-see attraction. You can also enjoy serene riverside walks in Tulle.
Scenic Wonders
One of the most popular attractions in Corrèze is the series of picturesque waterfalls located at Gimel-les-Cascades. The department is home to many beautiful towns and villages, with five of them officially recognised as the most beautiful
Beaux Villages de France. These include the red sandstone town of Collonges-la-Rouge, characterised by its meandering streets and stunning architecture. The other four villages are Curemont, St-Robert, Ségur-le-Château and Turenne.
Historic Charm: Turenne and Treignac
Turenne is a charming village perched on a hillock, with the ruins of an ancient castle dominating the village. Though it's an imposing sight, it's worth exploring. Treignac is another lovely spot to visit, with its stunning medieval quarter, pretty
cafés, and beautiful architecture. The largest town in the south of Corrèze is Brive-la-Gaillarde, famous for its impressive food market, held three times a week. Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is another delightful town, located in a wooded valley on the banks of
the Dordogne River.
Outdoor Activities in Corrèze
Corrèze is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it features impressive scenery, including the valleys of lower Corrèze around Meymac,
Mont Bessou, the mountain springs around
Millevaches, the
Gorges du Chavanon to the east, and the
Monédières hills. With so many equally attractive towns and villages to explore, such as Argentat, Aubazine, Corrèze, Donzenac, Meymac, Pompadour, and Uzerche, Corrèze is a destination waiting to be discovered.
A Taste of Corrèze
It is a perfect destination for walking, hiking, cycling, swimming, canoeing or simply enjoying the spectacular landscape. As you would expect, the cuisine of Corrèze is packed full of flavour and based on a wealth of locally grown and sourced produce. There are numerous bustling markets and a gastronomic feast awaits in the restaurants, including local dishes such as
millassous de pommes de terre (a potato pie), stuffed ceps and
farcidures (a type of potato and meat dumpling).
Vin Paillé, made in the Dordogne Valley, is another local speciality. This delicious sweet wine is made by a small number of winemakers who keep this centuries-old tradition alive.
Accessibility and Comfort
In terms of transport, Corrèze is well-connected with two airports at Limoges and Brive and the TGV rail network passing through. It is a superb destination for those of us looking to enjoy a different pace of life in a picturesque setting and the climate is pleasantly warm in the summer months.
Discover Corrèze
The beauty of Corrèze is that it’s a best-kept secret just waiting to be discovered. With an appealing location, characterful towns and villages and great scenery, it is an idyllic place to call home.
Key Information about Corrèze
- Main City/Prefecture: Tulle
- Nearest Airport: Brive–Souillac Airport
- Population: Around 240,000 (as of the latest census)
- Area: 5,857 sq. kilometres and 2,261 sq. miles
- Landmark: Collonges-la-Rouge, a picturesque village built entirely of red sandstone.
- Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1.2 million, drawn by its medieval villages, Dordogne Valley and rolling countryside.
Search, Save and View