Limousin Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options in Limousin, France.


Introduction to Limousin

Located in the heart of France, Limousin is a region known for its breathtaking countryside landscapes, fascinating history, and delightful food and drink scene. Limousin is composed of three departments: Corrèze, Creuse, and Haute-Vienne, and was formerly occupied by the Gauls and later the Romans. This long history has left its mark on the region, as reflected in its numerous museums, stunning architecture, and charming villages.

List of Places to Visit in Limousin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée National Adrien Dubouché: A museum in Limoges that houses an extensive collection of ceramics from around the world, including Limoges porcelain.
  • Château de Val: A castle in Bort-les-Orgues that was built in the 15th century and offers guided tours of the castle’s history.
  • Oradour-sur-Glane: The site of a village that was destroyed during World War II, which has been left in ruins as a memorial to the atrocities that took place.
  • Collonges-la-Rouge: A historic village that is famous for its distinctive red sandstone architecture.

Natural Attractions of Limousin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lac de Vassivière: A beautiful man-made lake located in the Creuse department that is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
  • Plateau de Millevaches: A hilly region known for its scenic vistas and numerous hiking trails.
  • Monts de Guéret: A beautiful mountain range in the Creuse department with a plethora of biking and hiking trails.
  • Rochechouart Impact Structure: A meteor impact structure that is over 200 million years old and is a popular tourist spot for its interesting geological history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Limousin

  • Sentier de la Legende: A 5-km long hiking route in Bussière-Galant that takes hikers through picturesque forests past medieval castles.
  • Sentier des Arbres Remarquables: A hiking trail that winds through the woods of the Millevaches plateau, where hikers can observe some of the region’s oldest and largest trees.
  • Vélo-rail St Sulpice Laurière: A 12 km cycling route starting at Saint-Sulpice-Laurière, where riders bike along an old railway line, and through scenic countryside, tunnels, and over old railway bridges.

Best Things to Do in Limousin: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the medieval architecture: Stroll through the old town of Limoges to discover half-timbered houses and churches.
  • Raft on the Vézère River: Whitewater rafting is available on the Vézère River.
  • Discover the local cuisine: Enjoy traditional dishes, such as “pâté de pommes de terre” and “rillettes du Limousin,” at one of the region’s many restaurants.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience Limousin’s breathtaking countryside from above on a hot air balloon tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Limousin

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the medieval architecture in Limoges
Day 2 Visit the Musée National Adrien Dubouché
Day 3 Hike in Plateau de Millevaches
Day 4 Discover the local cuisine
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride
Day 6 Visit Oradour-sur-Glane
Day 7 Raft on the Vézère River

Food and Drink Scene of Limousin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pâté de pommes de terre: A potato pie filled with meat and vegetables.
  • Creusois cake: A delicious almond cake made from local products.
  • Rillettes du Limousin: A savoury spread made from pork, seasoned and cooked slowly in their own fat.
  • Pommeau de la Drôme / Saintongeais: An aperitif made from cider and brandy taken from the Limousin apple harvest.

Local Beverages

  • Bière de la Belette: A locally brewed beer based on an old recipe using traditional malts.
  • Blanchette: A type of wine that is produced in the region, and is known for its fruity character.
  • Limousin apple juice: A refreshing apple juice made from locally grown apples.

Where to Stay in Limousin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hostellerie de la Dordogne: A charming inn located in Argentat that offers comfortable rooms and an excellent restaurant.
  • La Tour à Sel: A guesthouse in Limoges that is housed in a historic building and offers warm hospitality and a delightful breakfast.
  • Château de la Cazine: A luxury hotel in La Souterraine that offers elegantly appointed rooms and a tranquil setting in the midst of nature.

What to Buy in Limousin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Porceleyne Fles ceramics: Hand-painted ceramics made in Limoges, including porcelain plates, cups, and saucers.
  • Local cheeses: The region produces a number of delicious cheeses, including Saint-Nectaire and Fourme d’Ambert.
  • Leather goods: Limousin is famous for its leather products, including belts, purses, and wallets.

Local Culture and Customs of Limousin

  • Festivals: Limousin hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that celebrate local traditions, including the Saint-Junien Medieval Festival and the Festival of Chestnuts in Beynat.
  • Language: French is the official language, though some locals may speak the regional Occitan dialect.

Best Time to Visit Limousin

The best time to visit Limousin is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is the most pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Limousin

Do:

  • Try local cuisine: Limousin is renowned for its phenomenal food scene.
  • Learn some French: Knowing some basic French phrases can make communication with locals much easier.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes: Limousin’s countryside is full of rugged terrain that can be challenging to navigate in uncomfortable shoes.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore: There are many charming villages and scenic routes in Limousin that are just waiting to be discovered.

Safety and Health

Safety in Limousin

Limousin is a safe region with low crime rates, however tourists should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Limousin

There are no major health risks in Limousin, and the region boasts a high-quality healthcare system.

Getting to Limousin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Limousin

Limoges International Airport and the Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne Airport are both located in Limousin.

Bus Stations Near Limousin

Bus service by Transport express régional (TER) is available throughout Limousin, with stations in Limoges, Brive-la-Gaillarde, and Tulle.

Other Options

Train service is available to Limoges and Guéret from Paris and other major cities in France.

How to Get Around in Limousin

The most convenient way to get around Limousin is by car. Car rentals are available at airports and train stations throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Limousin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park: A beautiful nature park on the border of Limousin and Dordogne that is full of hiking and biking trails.
  • Poitou-Charentes: A nearby region with beautiful historical sites and relaxing beach destinations.
  • Toulouse: A vibrant city known for its museums, culture, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Limousin is a beautiful and fascinating region in France that is sure to make a lasting impression on any visitor. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich history and delicious cuisine, Limousin offers something for every type of traveller.