Discover Varaignes, Dordogne, Aquitaine: Charm and Activities

The castle and its powerful keep now houses the workshop-museum of the weavers and the charentaise, which traces the history of textiles in the region. A street leads down to the "Crochet" stream which hosts the Lud? eau vive.

Soudat, the favourite village of artists. A very pleasant walk that takes you through fields and forests interspersed with surprising hamlets. You will meet a rich fauna and flora.

A walk in the land of the Neanderthals.

During this hike, you will discover the soul of the Green Perigord which was one of the cradles of the iron and steel industry in France. The economic activity of the region was essentially based on its forges! The Etouars forge made cast iron and naval cannons for the Rochefort arsenal. This was a region whose economic activity was essentially based on its 140 forges! These forges manufactured cast iron, steel and cast iron objects such as pots and firebacks. They were set up as close as possible to the natural resources used (iron ore: the mine; charcoal; watercourses: hydraulic energy). In Etouars, on nearly one hectare, an orchard of old varieties of pome fruits, declined under several forms of plantations: high stems, palissées forms, jouales, place of pleasant walks, wants to be also a privileged site.

Site of the Roc Branlant and the Chapelet du Diable The rocking rock, a block of granite of 3 m by 3 m, left in balance on a rocky table by the slow work of the waters of the river in the middle of which it is located, is easily balanced by a simple push. A string (or granite chaos) of granite blocks stretches for a hundred meters, letting the water reappear here and there in a discreet lapping. A reach (old canal bringing water to the "Petits Moulins") has been built. It invites you to discover plants along an ethnobotanical path.

Lussas-et-Nontronneau is a small town that has inherited a beautiful heritage from its long history dating back to the Roman period. Take a walk and discover: a Gallo-Roman "villa" and its bathing area, which attest to the fact that the town was already populated during this period, numerous fiefs and fortified houses, on the site of which were built residences of a defensive nature in the Middle Ages, such as the Château de Beauvais, and numerous churches, most of which still exist today, in spite of major additions and repairs to some of them.

Lussas-et-Nontronneau is a small town that has inherited a beautiful heritage from its long history dating back to the Roman period. Take a walk and discover: a Gallo-Roman "villa" and its bathing area, which attest to the fact that the town was already populated during this period, numerous fiefs and fortified houses, on the site of which were built residences of a defensive nature in the Middle Ages, such as the Château de Beauvais, and numerous churches, most of which still exist today, in spite of major additions and repairs to some of them.

Located in the heart of the green Périgord, the site of Saint-Estèphe is part of a rural area of meadows, woodlands, ponds and granite chaos. The various developments have privileged a continuity between the walks on the platforms and the old roadway. The great pond of Saint-Estèphe has the characteristic to integrate equipments intended to allow the reception of the handicapped but also to guarantee them the access to the bathe, the canoe, the fishing and the walk. A ferry also allows a complete tour of the pond.

This route will take you through the centuries, from the Neolithic period to the Middle Ages and the Gallo-Roman period.

Piégut is a commune located in the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord Limousin and is very famous in this area for its Wednesday morning market which attracts many visitors. You will not fail to admire its tower or more precisely the remains of a circular keep which is the most remarkable monument of the village standing on a rock. It is the only vestige of the castle that was destroyed by the troops of Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. The proposed hike to the Grolhier pond will allow you to discover the granitic Green Périgord. After leaving the village, you will plunge into the forest and walk along several ponds before arriving at the Grolhier pond.

In the heart of the Périgord Vert region, in the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord-Limousin, the St-Estèphe** campsite is located on the edge of a lake with a natural environment that is extremely diverse in terms of both flora and fauna. Spacious, shaded pitches by the lake, as well as fully-equipped tent lodges, without sanitary facilities. Numerous activities: tennis, canoeing, fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking. Accessible to people with reduced mobility. Handiplage" certified beach. Gourmet restaurant on site. Campsite open from June to September and tent lodges from May to September. Studios and duplexes available for rent all year round.

Former convent, then coaching inn and hotel since 1900. The hotel has been listed in the Michelin Guide since its inception, and has appeared in every edition to date. Adjacent to the town hall, in the heart of the town center, this charming hotel has enjoyed an excellent reputation for over two centuries. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the rich local recipes and home-made pastries on the terrace by the pool, or in the dining room by the log fire. The hotel offers its guests 25 renovated rooms with all the comforts required for a pleasant stay. A tea room and seminar room complete the offer. Free private indoor parking is available exclusively to guests.

Le petit bonheur is a spacious vacation rental for up to 12 people in the heart of the P2rigord-Limousin region, in Maisonnais-sur-Tardoire. Less than 14 km from the La Prèze golf course, enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside for a rejuvenating stay on the banks of a pond. Renovated in 2022, this house boasts all modern comforts, a fully-equipped kitchen, terrace, above-ground pool, wifi... Walking trails, activities, nature, cultural discoveries and small-scale Limousin heritage are all within easy reach during your stay.

"La Charnière" is a place where you can find peace and quiet, reconnect with your family on special occasions or spend time with loved ones in the heart of the Limousin countryside. The tastefully decorated gite boasts a privileged location close to the Périgord Vert region, a private garden with jacuzzi, and access in season to a heated 4m x 8m swimming pool, for the ideal relaxing break. Cheryl and Ben warmly welcome you all year round to their self-catering cottage, which sleeps two (with the possibility of accommodating a baby under 2). There are no fixed arrival and departure dates, so you can choose the dates that suit you best. Extras are included in the standard rate to make your stay relaxing, calm and pleasant from the moment you arrive, whether you're coming for a weekend or a longer stay. English is spoken here.

Fountains, springs and streams are present in this pretty village in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. The property, in the shape of a valley, is crossed by a stream where ferns, orchids, trees and shrubs live together harmoniously. The rooms are located in an annex close to the house. For a night or a longer stay, come and taste the breakfast which is decorated with organic and local products. Since 1999, we have had the pleasure to make you discover our territory and our passion for plants. Children's games, giant elm chessboard, hiking trails on site with maps available Bedroom and guest suite: 1 bedroom for 2 people (1 bed 140), private shower room and toilet, 1 family room composed of 2 bedrooms for 4 people (1 bed 140 - 2 beds 90), private shower room and toilet.

This gîte is located in a quiet Haute-Vienne hamlet, La Borderie, in Maisonnais sur Tardoire, about 45 minutes from Limoges airport. It has two bedrooms, a bathroom, a living/dining room and a fully equipped kitchen. Outside, there's a patio and a large private garden for a rejuvenating stay. This recently renovated house in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord Limousin is the ideal base for exploring the Haute-Vienne, and the nearby Charente Limousine and Dordogne. The accommodation is equipped with English and French satellite TV, with a DVD player, but the charm of the Limousin countryside and nature walks will make you prefer outdoor activities.

In a peaceful corner of the Haute-Vienne, John invites you to slip into a cocoon filled with serenity. Surrounded by nature, The Lodge welcomes you for a night, or even several nights, to let go and relax in a charming, idyllic setting for lovers of the countryside, for those who want to slow down and find themselves.

In a peaceful corner of the Haute-Vienne, John invites you to slip into a cocoon filled with serenity. Surrounded by nature, The Tower, a small, cosy, two-storey apartment, welcomes you for a night or even several nights to recharge your batteries and relax in a charming, idyllic setting for lovers of the countryside, for those who want to slow down and rediscover themselves.

Charming little country house located in a hamlet in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin Nature Park. Ideal for 4 people who want to recharge their batteries in a peaceful natural setting, this furnished apartment has a spacious bedroom with a double bed and a single bed, plus storage space. The sofa bed in the living room provides additional sleeping space for one person on the first floor. A 5-minute drive from shops and services, and the St Mathieu lake (swimming, stand-up paddle rentals, restaurant...). Numerous hiking trails nearby, at the crossroads of the 3 départements: Haute Vienne, Dordogne and Haute Charente.

La Lisonne is a small estate in the verdant countryside of the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord Limousin on the very edge of the Dordogne, in the southwest of the département. Hiking trails depart from the gîte, allowing you to discover a land of deciduous forests, small meadows, streams and ponds. Priscilla, Julien and their two children live in this natural paradise. The road goes no further. They are surrounded by dogs, Tanga the horse, chickens, ducks and pigs. Louise, aged 6, and Lucas, aged 10, will be delighted to share their games: trampoline, swing. Lucas is already a keen fisherman, and will happily accompany them on a few fishing trips to the nearby pond, where it's also pleasant to relax and watch the birds and the sunset.

Chestnut grove with guaranteed organic products: fresh, peeled, frozen, jars of chestnut cream, chestnut puree or compote. The chestnut cream is Saveur d'Or Nouvelle Aquitaine 2021. Open all year round, phone call highly recommended Deposit at the grocery store "Blette comme Chou" in Abjat-sur-Bandiat. Farmers' market in Varaignes on Tuesday evening in summer.

Pierrichou, the storyteller of the Village, tells you with an Occitan touch the history of water in Varaignes. A 1.5 km trail that begins with a storytelling tour of the village and ends with an audio-guided tour of the Lud'eau vive, below the Village.

Reception of groups à la carte, for a day or half-day, on the following themes: "In the time of the Weavers... " with a visit of the castle and the museum, lunch, looms of yesteryear) "At the time of the Cannons..." with search for ore, lunch, visit of a Royal forge, white water lud'eau vive Other tours can be created on request with the organizer.

The castle shows the architectural evolution from the 14th/16th century, with its square tower, to the end of the 16th century with its Renaissance façade. It houses the Atelier-museum of the Weavers and the Charentaise.

Located in the château de Varaignes, this workshop-museum of the Weavers and the Charentaise recounts the history of the local textile industry, the life of the Weaver/Farmer through the reconstruction of a weaver's house from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the history of the famous "Charentaise" slipper. Outside July and August by appointment.

Chapel of a former Benedictine priory, it dates from the 12th century. The convent buildings no longer exist, only this superb Romanesque church remains. It is distinguished by its imposing three-storey square bell tower (27m).

Farm in agroforestry, organic farming and biodynamic practices. Products: seasonal and perennial vegetables, edible flowers, aromatic and medicinal plants, strawberries, herbal teas, aromatic salts, fruits to come.. Reception of trainees and campers, to discover the world of agriculture, open doors, workshops, events around the well-being... Customized baskets "to compose yourself", self-service withdrawal at the farm. The nursery is open from February to the end of May by appointment. Presence on local events. Sale in baskets and collectivities with the association "La Sauce Paysanne" (contact and reservation : 06.65.52.32.11 and saucepaysanne@yahoo.fr).

In the extreme north of the Dordogne, the Pierre Bourrinet museographic space is installed in a room fitted out in the old town hall of Teyjat. The prehistoric sites of Teyjat - the cave of the Town Hall and the Mège shelter - have indeed delivered exceptional objects dated from - 10 000 to - 3000 years. As these sites are not open to the public, the Pierre Bourrinet museum presents an exhibition on the life of the hunter-gatherers of the late Neolithic period in relation to the Magdalenian engravings as well as the various objects (tools, furniture and elements of adornment) that have been found there. Every Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 pm in July, August and during the Easter and All Saints vacations, complete your visit by participating in the archaeological workshops led by the CPIE Périgord-Limousin: learn about excavation techniques, how to light a fire and practice shooting with a pr

This forge is one of the most important forges of the Bandiat iron basin in the 18th century. It was a place of production of cast iron and steel. It was part of a vast group of forges that produced naval cannons for the Rochefort arsenal. Recent archaeological surveys have brought to light the casting pit of the cannons of the blast furnace. This discovery, which is apparently unique in France, allows us to understand how how the cannons were cast in this royal forge. Visits led by the CPIE from mid-July to mid-August, on Fridays at 2:30 pm - Rates: adults 6 ?, children 5 ?

Farm of market gardening certified AB. Sale of vegetables and local products at the farm store during the summer Basket sales with the association "La Sauce Paysanne" (contact and reservation : 06.65.52.32.11 and saucepaysanne@yahoo.fr) Market of Nontron on Saturday morning.

Menu with choice of 3 starters, 3 main courses and 3 desserts (changing every two weeks). Open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch, and also Friday and Saturday from 7pm to 10:30pm.

A traditional restaurant with a soft, soothing atmosphere in the dining room and a warm welcome on the verdant, flower-filled, bohemian terrace, complete with background music (jazz, lounge, etc.) for lunch or dinner, you'll leave delighted by our fresh, light, tasty and refined cuisine, with just the right amount of flair and elegance. You can also visit the restaurant's small boutique and treat yourself to a selection of local products (honey, chestnut cream, jams, syrups, craft beers, homemade wines and foie gras, foie gras with truffles, etc.) in a complimentary wicker basket. Reservations recommended. Open Wednesday lunchtime to Sunday evening.

Traditional cuisine, open every lunchtime from 10.30am to 3pm, fish and chips on Wednesday evenings, themed menu on Friday evenings, Saturday evenings by prior arrangement.

The house (1866) and inn are located in the heart of our farm. We produce poultry and goat meat. As far as possible, the raw materials cooked at the inn come from our own farm. Our specialties: foie gras, duck à l'orange, pot au feu spiced with cabri... and also vegetarian cuisine. Reservations required.

Traditional family cuisine. Menus at 13.90?, 16.90?, 24? and à la carte. Services: banquets, seminars, catering, takeaways, hiker's baskets. Group receptions. Closed Wednesday evening, Thursday lunchtime and evening and Sunday evening.

Pub, restaurant. Open Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm, Sunday 11am to 3pm. In July and August open Sunday evenings.

We offer local Périgord cuisine with foie gras, duck breast, etc., as well as travel cuisine with a touch of Asian and African spices. Lunch: Monday to Sunday: 11:30am/14:00pm Evening: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:00 pm/22:00 pm

Chef Arnaud Sanchez and the entire Le Moulin team welcome you to a traditional restaurant offering modern cuisine. The Chef's creations are based on local produce, and he prefers to source his ingredients from local producers who have a passion for the "beau produit". The menu is always based on seasonal produce, in keeping with what our region has to offer. Open Wednesday to Sunday lunchtime and Wednesday to Saturday evenings. In July and August every lunchtime and evening (12pm-2pm and 7pm-9pm) except Tuesday.

Snack bar by the pond. Open daily for lunch and dinner in summer.

Bar-restaurant open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner. Lunch and dinner menu 14? Weekend reservations possible for groups of 10 or more. Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and Wednesday to Sunday for dinner.

Ferme de séjour, chambre et table d'hôtes. In the village of Varaignes, 3rd house below the château. 2 guest rooms with private bathroom. Extra bed available at extra cost. Open all year round. The Farm: chestnut grove with guaranteed organic products from the farm: chestnuts (blanched, jams...).

Chablat is a small, quiet hamlet near Varaignes, situated in the nature park "Limousin- Perigord". The 17th century house made of natural stone has been restored very gently to its original character.

Chablat is a small, quiet hamlet near Varaignes, situated in the nature park "Limousin- Perigord". The 17th century house made of natural stone has been restored very gently to its original character.

Furnished in a Perigordian house, close to the river, mill, castle, wood. At 500m from shops. 70m² : 2 bedrooms (one floor with bed 140 + bed 90), the other on the first floor (bed 140), a kitchen-living room, bathroom-wc. Equipment : fridge-freezer, gas stove, microwave, washing machine, central heating, covered barbecue area. Nearby : hiking trails, karting, acrobatic course in the trees, swimming pond, weavers museum, mills, castles, caves...

2 guest rooms in a charming 1935 house. Renovated in the center of town, 800m from shops and restaurant, on the Flow Vélo route. Chambre 1 Fleur de Coton :1 bed 160 (2 people), can be replaced by 2 beds 90 at no extra charge. Baby area Room 2 Primevère: 1 bed 180 (2 people), 1 bed 90 (1 person). Possibility of an extra bed (1 adult), supplement 15? Lounge and office area. Bathroom and toilet on landing for both bedrooms. Bathrobe, hairdryer and household linen available. Mainly organic continental breakfast using local produce. Available: free WiFi, massage chair, fans, terrace, lounge area, deckchairs. Contribution to battery charging: 2? per battery. Free parking. Cyclists welcome: a secure carport is available for bikes. Pergola for

We will be happy to welcome you to our small campsite with 8 pitches, quiet, away from traffic, on 0.5 hectare of land The campsite is located about 300 meters from the farm, in a vast undergrowth.

Near a microlight base and a farm, country house with a small garden. House fully equipped for four persons with one bedroom.