Corrèze does not always enjoy a great reputation as a tourist destination, compared to its neighbours Dordogne and Lot. And that’s a shame. This pretty, green region with its rolling landscapes is a delight for nature lovers. But with six villages listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, lovers of sightseeing and culture will not be disappointed either. Be sure to discover them during your camping holiday in Corrèze.
Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, the Limousin Riviera
With its classification obtained in 2022, it is the latest addition to the Most Beautiful Villages of France in Corrèze. This village, built on the right bank of the Dordogne, owes its nickname of Riviera Limousine to its mild climate. A climate conducive to strawberry cultivation. A Strawberry Festival is held there every year on the second Sunday in May. In the heart of the town, don’t miss the beautiful St Pierre Abbey, a listed historical monument. Its tympanum, carved in the 12th century, is a true masterpiece. However, Beaulieu’s main charm lies in its location on the banks of the Dordogne. When you are on the other side of the river, or during a trip on a traditional barge, its monuments are reflected in the water of the Dordogne, making for a beautiful photo opportunity.
Collonges-la-Rouge
Undoubtedly the most original of the Most Beautiful Villages of Corrèze. This small town owes its name to the flamboyant red sandstone used to build its houses and monuments, topped with slate and flagstone roofs. This red colour is due to the high iron oxide content of the sandstone. In addition to its colour, Collonges-la-Rouge stands out for its original architecture, which can be seen on every street corner, particularly in the Maison de la Sirène, a 16th-century building. Everywhere you look, you will see towers and bell towers, which have earned it the nickname “Town of 25 Towers”. While Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is the last village in Corrèze to be listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Collonges-la-Rouge is the first. Charles Ceyrac, mayor of the village from 1965 to 1996, was in fact behind the creation of the Most Beautiful Villages of France label. Collonges-la-Rouge was therefore the first village in France to be awarded the label in 1982. It is definitely one of the places not to be missed during your camping holiday in Corrèze with your caravan or tent.
Curemonte, village with three castles
Built along a ridge on the border of the Lot region, Curemonte is recognisable by the towers of its three castles, built in different periods. Although they are not open to visitors, they contribute to the charm of this medieval town.
Saint-Robert
Also built on a hill, the village of Saint-Robert is located on the border between Limousin and Périgord. This town has retained its medieval character with its narrow streets and what remains of its fortified gates. This small town in Corrèze is famous for its music festival, which takes place from mid-July to mid-August.
Ségur-le-Château
On the banks of the Auvézère River, at the crossroads of the Haute-Vienne, Dordogne and Corrèze departments, the medieval village of Ségur-le-Château is dominated by the remains of its fortress, which was built between the 11th and 15th centuries. In addition to the fortress, the village is home to a number of 15th- and 16th-century residences, some of which are half-timbered. Don’t be surprised by the many clay figures that await you on every street corner. These are the Plaizentins, the works of local artist Dominique Plaize, which are scattered throughout the village.
Turenne
Turenne can be seen from afar. The village is built on the slopes of a hill dominated by a tall limestone keep. Don’t hesitate to climb the stairs leading to the top to enjoy a magnificent view of the Corrèze. As you stroll through the village streets, you will discover a rich heritage. It must be said that in times gone by, until the 18th century, Turenne was an important town that minted coins and raised troops.
And other towns of character in Corrèze
Although the Plus Beaux Villages de France label distinguishes exceptional villages in Corrèze, this selection is not exhaustive. In addition to its six listed villages, Corrèze is full of small towns of character that are just as worthy of a visit. Uzerche, Arnac-Pompadour and Donzenac are among them. Personally, we particularly like Argentat. Its banks on the Dordogne are very pleasant, especially in the evening when the restaurant terraces are out.
Caravan camping pitches in Corrèze
A selection of the best campsites in Corrèze, with a majority of pitches for caravans, tents or motorhomes.
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