Nestled between the idyllic regions of
Dordogne in the west and Auvergne in the east lies the charming department of Corrèze, situated 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.
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 recognized as the most beautiful villages in France. These include the red sandstone town of Collonges-la-Rouge, characterized by its meandering streets and stunning architecture. The other four villages are Curemont, St-Robert, Ségur-le-Château, and Turenne.
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 cafes, 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.
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.
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 wealth of local 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.
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.
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.
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