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The positive cycling itinerary

La Vélidéale, from Limousin to L’Atlantique

From July 2024, cycle touring enthusiasts will have a new opportunity to explore the Grand Ouest thanks to the launch of La Vélidéale, a new cycle route 🚲

This national cycle route, formerly known as the V93, crosses 2 regions and 6 départements.

Get ready, mark this date in your diaries – it’s great news for outdoor enthusiasts! 🍃

À réaliser en
5 days
124 km

Vassivière - Rochechouart

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01 Step 01

Royère-de-Vassivière

Starting point

This is it, the start of your great adventure! 🚴🏻

Starting from Royère-de-Vassivière, embark on a 124km adventure through the Haute-Vienne.

So, what are you waiting for?

Get on your bike and discover our beautiful destination. 💚

02 Step 02

Royère-de-Vassivière - Bujaleuf

34 km - 1h34

Your adventure begins here, stage 1, linking Royère-de-Vassivière to Bujaleuf. 🌿

This tour promises a captivating immersion in 💚 the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

As you set off, you’ll cross the Limousin countryside until you discover the mystical Rigole du Diable.

Take a rewarding break at the CIAP on the island of Vassivière to explore contemporary art in the 🧡 of a wild and peaceful landscape.

Next, let yourself be seduced by the shores of the Lac de Vassivière, a veritable paradise for lovers of water sports and outdoor activities. 🍃

In Vassiviera, treat your taste buds to the delights of local cuisine, offering you an invigorating gourmet break. 😋

Finally, round off your day in Bujaleuf by heading for Lac de Saint-Hélène, a peaceful halt bringing to a close a memorable day rich in discovery and wonder. 🌅

Good to know

During this first stage, you’ll cross the 💚 of the Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin, a natural gem offering breathtaking panoramas.

03 Step 03

Good to know

During this stage, you’ll ride along the roads that saw the birth of the local boy, Raymond Poulidor. 🚴🏻

Bujaleuf - Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat

16 km - 0h40

The stage between Bujaleuf and Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat offers an enriching experience in the 💚 Limousin countryside.

Start your journey by discovering the Ferme de Fantouillet, where you can purchase delicacies such as farmhouse goat’s milk cheese. 🧀

As you follow the winding course of the Maulde and Vienne rivers, admire its landscapes and tranquil waters, ideal for relaxation and contemplation. 👀

Once you’ve arrived in Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, be sure to visit its majestic Collegiate Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through its charming historic town. 🤩

Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, try the local delicacy, Massepains, a specialty that will delight your taste buds and punctuate this cycling stage with a sweet and savory note. 😋

04 Step 04

Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat - Limoges

32 km - 1h21

A new stage today between Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat and Limoges. 🤩

Start your journey with a short detour to the Porcelaine Carpenet factory to discover the secrets of porcelain manufacture, an ancestral skill for which the region is renowned. ✨

Then on to the Moulin du Got, a former paper mill still in operation!

On the way, take a break at the Le Relais du Taurion restaurant to sample local specialties and regain your strength. 😋

After admiring the surrounding countryside, set off again for Limoges, the porcelain capital. 🚴🏻

Today’s journey ends on the banks of the Vienne. 💦

Drive along the banks of the Vienne for a panoramic view of the city before visiting the cathedral and its bishop’s garden, where serenity reigns supreme. 🌸

05 Step 05

Limoges - Aixe-sur-Vienne

18 km - 0h45

The stage between Limoges and Aixe-sur-Vienne promises a captivating immersion .🌿

Start your journey by exploring Les Halles de Limoges, where local flavors and colors intermingle in a bustling market, offering an authentic experience of regional gastronomy.

Pass through the Quartier de la Boucherie and soak up its picturesque atmosphere and storied history!

As you leave Limoges, immerse yourself in 💚 nature by exploring the Forêt des Vaseix and its many landscaped hiking trails. 🥾

Your journey then takes you to the Chapelle and Jardin d’Arliquet, where art and nature meet in an enchanting setting, inviting meditation and serenity. 🌸

End this stage in style by soaking up the tranquility of the Jardin de Losmonerie, where the poetry of the landscape and the gentle way of life of Limousin are revealed in all their splendor. 🍓

06 Step 06

Aixe-sur-Vienne - Rochechouart

39 km - 1h45

The stage between Aixe-sur-Vienne and Rochechouart offers unforgettable immersion in the 💚 Parc Naturel Régional Périgord-Limousin.

Start your journey with the peaceful banks of the Vienne and the Jardin Jeanne d’Albret. 🌸

Continue your journey to Saint-Priest-sous-Aixe, a typical town full of charm. ✨

Continue your journey by exploring the canoe base at Saint-Victurnien, an ideal aquatic getaway for discovering the region from a new angle. 🛶

End your journey in Rochechouart, at the Musée départemental de la Haute-Vienne, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the region.

Psst…be sure to sample the local specialty, Rochechouartais! 😋

Don’t miss:

The Etang de la Pouge, located in the 💚 of the PNR Périgord-Limousin landscape, is a magical 32-hectare place listed in the Natura 2000 network 🌿

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01 Step 01

Royère-de-Vassivière

Welcome to Royère-de-Vassivière, your starting point for a sporting adventure in 💚 our beautiful destination.

A true haven of unspoilt nature, between mountains and lake, this small village invites you to relax and contemplate. 🤩

Not to be missed on your route:

La rigole du diable, a picturesque site classified Natura 2000. 🌿

For the little curious, the legend recounts the agreement between a monk and the devil to build a canal, a spellbinding tale that bears witness to the beliefs of yesteryear.

The Lande du Puy de la Croix interpretation trail, 2.5 km long, reveals the legend of the founding shepherdess through sculpted stones.

From the lookout, admire the superb panorama over the lake and explore the original landscapes, flora and fauna of this protected site. 👀

02 Step 02

Lac de Vassivière

1st step, the unmissable Lac de Vassivière, nestled in the 💚 of unspoilt nature, it stands like a peaceful jewel, inviting travelers to a refreshing stopover with its 1,000 hectares of water expanse!

It invites you to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and water sports activities, offering a relaxing and leisurely interlude. 💦

Spotlights not to be missed:

Start with a gourmet stopover at the Vassivièra restaurant, where local flavors delight the taste buds and a multitude of activities await you. 😋

Along the way, stop off to make sure you don’t miss any of the region’s must-sees, such as the island of Vassivière and its Centre International d’Art et du Paysage (CIAP), where contemporary art blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature. 🖼️

Finally, explore the Jardin des Simples, a haven of peace where medicinal and aromatic plants unfold their beneficial virtues. 🌸

03 Step 03

Peyrat-le-Château

Peyrat-le-Château, an enchanting village in Limousin, will capture your imagination with its medieval charm and bucolic landscapes. 🌿

Don’t miss:

The natural splendor of the Tourbières de Quenouille, a protected Natura 2000 area, where flora and fauna unfold in all their unspoiled beauty. 🌸

Le Bois de Crozat, where the murmur of century-old trees guides you into an atmosphere imbued with mystery and serenity.

Les Roches Brunagères, the highest point on the route, once you reach the summit, marvel at the panoramic view before you. 👀

Finally, finish on a high note with a visit to Les Ânes de Vassivière, an unusual accommodation that promises an authentic stay in the company of these adorable four-legged companions. 🫏

04 Step 04

Bujaleuf

Head for Bujaleuf, your last stop of the day! 🚴

Nestled in the 💚 of the Limousin, this charming village is a true haven of peace, between green hills and a tranquil lake, you’ll be seduced by its authenticity and gentle way of life. 🌿

Our not-to-be-missed spots:

Lac de Sainte-Hélène, a veritable oasis of tranquility and leisure. Its 70 hectares offer a variety of activities, from supervised swimming and water sports to fishing and peaceful strolls along its shady banks.

It’s a must for a relaxing getaway in the heart of nature. 🍃

During your trip, let yourself be seduced by the varied landscapes and the gentle murmurs of the Maulde river that will accompany you. 👀

Psst…You can’t miss the Terra Aventura “Le Dragon de la Maulde”, a night-time experience not to be missed! 🐉

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01 Step 01

Bujaleuf

We hope you’re well rested and ready for the next stage! 🚴

Starting in Bujaleuf, begin your adventure by exploring the Ferme de Fantouillet, where you can sample delights such as farmhouse goat’s cheese made from raw milk, a real treat for the taste buds. 😋 🧀

During this journey, you’ll follow the Maulde and then the Vienne, the majestic river that borders the commune, offering panoramic views and moments of tranquillity as it flows by. 💦

In need of a little break, head for Camping de Beaufort, accommodation accueil vélo, an ideal place to immerse yourself in 💚 Limousin nature.

Ideally located on the route de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle, enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation, activities and rest in this exceptional site, enveloped in greenery and tranquility. 🍃

02 Step 02

Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat

That’s it, you’ve arrived in Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, a medieval town full of charm, enchanted by its preserved historical heritage, cobbled streets and friendly atmosphere. 🧡

On site, don’t miss out on discovering its unmissable gems:

The Pont de Noblat, offering a breathtaking view of the town and its unspoilt natural setting,

The majestic Collegiate Church, a true masterpiece of Limousin Romanesque architecture,

Its charming village, with its mix of picturesque shops and traditional houses,

Treat yourself to the local specialty, delicious Massepains. 😋

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01 Step 01

Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat

Today, a new leg of your journey begins from Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat towards Limoges! 🚴

On the way, make a must-see stop at the Carpenet factory to unlock the secrets of Limoges porcelain on a guided tour. 👀

This family-run business offers a diverse range of creations, from blue kilnware to tableware, lamps and wildlife.

Carpenet has been awarded the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company) and Indication Géographique Protégée (Protected Geographical Indication) labels, guaranteeing you exceptional porcelain made and decorated locally!

A factory store is also available on site. 😉

Continue on to Moulin du Got to discover the age-old craft of papermaking. 📄

Immerse yourself in history as you observe traditional gestures, from crushed hemp fibers to 1930s “Linotype” machines.

A fascinating experience in the printing world of yesteryear. 🤩

Have a nice trip! 🛤️

02 Step 02

Saint-Priest-Taurion

Your 1st step, Saint-Priest-Taurion, a charming Haut-Viennoise commune, offers a tranquil, verdant setting on the outskirts of Limoges. 🍃

Between its peaceful banks of the Taurion river and its rolling countryside, this town will win you over with its friendly atmosphere and rich natural and cultural heritage!

While you’re here, don’t miss these must-sees:

Le Relais du Taurion restaurant, where you can enjoy refined regional cuisine in a warm and friendly setting. 😋

Le Viaduc, an impressive railway structure offering spectacular panoramic views over the Taurion valley and verdant surroundings. 🍃

Domaine de la Roche, a saffron producer, where you can explore the mysteries of this precious spice and take away with you a selection of products such as saffron jams and syrups. ✨

03 Step 03

Saint-Just-le-Martel

Saint-Juste-le-Martel, a charming commune where life is good. 🌿

With its peaceful lanes, preserved natural areas and historic heritage, this town offers a peaceful, authentic living environment!

The Centre International de la Caricature, du Dessin de Presse et d’Humour is a renowned institution founded in 1982, dedicated to satirical art it offers an exceptional collection of press cartoons, caricatures and humorous works. 👀

Every year, it hosts themed exhibitions highlighting the talent of cartoonists from around the world.

This year, it will take place from September 28 to October 6, 2024. 🗓️

A genuine meeting place and think tank, the center helps promote freedom of expression and inspire laughter and reflection in its visitors.

04 Step 04

Panazol

Located on the outskirts of Limoges, Panazol, a small picturesque commune, seduces with its peaceful atmosphere and verdant setting. 🌿

Don’t miss, Golf de la Porcelaine, a real gem for golf enthusiasts.🏌🏻This 18-hole course, nestled in 💚 a preserved natural setting, offers exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 👀

Golfers of all levels can enjoy its verdant fairways, strategically placed hazards and carefully manicured greens. ⛳️

Don’t miss a stop at Parc de la Beausserie, a veritable haven of greenery and serenity. 🌿

Its vast walking areas, adorned with flower gardens and majestic trees, invite you to relax and enjoy outdoor leisure activities.

With its children’s playgrounds, sports fields and picnic spots, it’s the ideal place for a peaceful getaway to 💚 nature.

05 Step 05

Limoges

Limoges, capital of porcelain and city of art and history, charms with its rich heritage 🧡

Nestled in the Limousin, this city is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, a symbol of elegance and savoir-faire.

Explore its medieval streets, soak up its unique atmosphere and discover its architectural treasures, such as the majestic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, its peaceful banks of the Vienne River and the charming Jardin de l’Évêché 🌸

Don’t miss the magnificent Pont St Étienne and the picturesque Pont St Martial!

Limoges reveals a palette of wonders around every corner, where history and natural beauty intertwine to create an unforgettable experience 🤩

To explore the city of Limoges further, 2 options, the city pass or the various Terra Aventura trails, offering you a fun and captivating way to discover its charms 😉

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01 Step 01

Limoges

We hope you enjoyed your night in Limoges. 🧡

Before hitting the road again, don’t miss these must-see spots:

Les Halles de Limoges, a lively covered market offering a variety of local produce. 😋

L’Aquarium du Limousin, a fascinating experience to discover aquatic life. 🐠

Le Quartier de la Boucherie, charming medieval alleyways and traditional restaurants well worth a visit. 👀

Le Petit Train Touristique de Limoges, discover the city and its main monuments, while learning more about its history and heritage. ✨

02 Step 02

Verneuil-sur-Vienne

If you’re stopping off at Verneuil-sur-Vienne, why not take a little break on your journey? 🚴‍♂️

Take the time to explore the Vaseix forest, a tranquil space perfect for a stroll!

Located in the 💚 Limousin countryside, this forest offers a number of well-developed hiking trails and preserved biodiversity 🌸

You’re bound to be charmed by its beauty and authenticity 🍃

03 Step 03

Aixe-sur-Vienne

Your final stop takes you to Aixe-sur-Vienne, a charming commune that exudes authenticity, inviting you to take a well-deserved break. 🤩

You’ll be enchanted by the gardens of Château de Losmonerie, where three remarkable gardens promise an unforgettable experience amid a profusion of flowers and greenery 🌸

And don’t forget to indulge in a unique taste experience with freshly picked raspberries, a veritable explosion of flavors 😋

For a rejuvenating break, take the time to discover Chapelle d’Arliquet and its magnificent garden 👀

A true haven of peace where you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature! 🍃

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Aixe-sur-Vienne

As your cycling journey along the roads of the Haute-Vienne draws to a close, let yourself be enveloped by the serenity of the banks of the Vienne before heading back to Rochechouart. 🚴🏻

Nearby, visit the charming Jardin Jeanne d’Albret, located at the entrance to the 💚 town.

This medieval-inspired garden offers 4 distinct areas: the Herbularium, dedicated to medicinal and aromatic plants; the Hortus, where vegetable and aromatic plants thrive; the Viridarium, home to a variety of fruit trees; and finally, Marie’s Garden, a space for relaxation and visual pleasure. 🌸 👀

It’s also an educational and pedagogical tool promoting sustainable development, with an emphasis on preserving biodiversity and using cultivation techniques that respect people and the environment. 🌿

Don’t forget to make an obligatory detour to the Maison de la Porcelaine to bring back a little souvenir of your visit. 😉

02 Step 02

Saint-Priest-sous-Aixe

During your stopover in Saint-Priest-sous-Aixe, be sure to discover the hidden treasures along your way. 🤩

Explore the Forêt des Losges thanks to its Terra Aventura.

Soak up the authentic atmosphere at the Ferme de Beauregard, where you can meet farm animals and taste fresh local produce. 😋

Finally, don’t fail to contemplate the Pont de la Gabie, an iconic structure steeped in history, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding area. 👀

03 Step 03

Saint-Yrieix-sous-Aixe

Saint-Yrieix-sous-Aixe, nestled in a peaceful setting, enchants with its charming village and 12th-century church dedicated to Arédius, the founder of Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche ⛪️

This church features a rare Limousin plan, retaining the choir with its two-day wall belfry.

Partially rebuilt in 1496 and again in the 18th century, it is bathed in light thanks to the remarkable stained glass windows by Francis Chigot and the Atelier du Vitrail. ✨

Inside, an 18th-century altarpiece, an octagonal stoup and an octagonal stoup are among the highlights.cle altarpiece, an octagonal font adorned with inverted polylobes and an exquisitely executed Christ on the Cross will captivate you, offering poignant testimony to the history and artistic richness of this community!

An unmissable break, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings and savor a delicious picnic. A 🧡 hit guaranteed!

04 Step 04

Saint-Victurnien

Did you know that Saint-Victurnien takes its name from a 5th-century hermit who, according to legend, resided in the dark forest that stretched along the banks of the Vienne? 🌳💦

Follow us, we’ll show you its authentic charm and rich historical past!

For thrill-seekers, the leisure base offers a range of activities, from climbing to archery to orienteering. 🧭 🧗🏻‍♀️

Its canoeing base invites you to adventure, offering a magnificent panorama of the banks of the Vienne river. 🤩

For those who prefer a freer adventure, there’s also fishingche, mountain biking, hiking and slacklining. 🚴🏻🥾

In Saint-Victurnien’s charming alleyways, you’ll discover fascinating architectural treasures, such as the 13th-century church, the Dony house, the Villa des Pins, and many other gems from the 19th and 20th centuries. ✨

If you want to unravel these well-kept mysteries, we highly recommend Terra Aventura: Vertunian Therapy. 🗺️

05 Step 05

Saint-Martin-de-Jussac

Welcome to Saint-Martin-de-Jussac, a small town majestically overlooking the Vienne valley. 💦

Its historic heritage is marked by its church, listed in its entirety on the Monuments Historiques since 1975. ⛪️

This remarkable building, dating from the 12th and 15th centuries, features a singular architecture, with a single-bay Romanesque nave and a Gothic sanctuary!

Look up to admire its cantilevered bell tower. 👀

After contemplating the exterior, enter the interior, which also deserves your full attention. ✨

Need a little break? A hiking trail winding through varied landscapes will give you the opportunity to discover the many facets of this picturesque commune 🍃

06 Step 06

Saint-Auvent

As you approach the end of your cycling journey, the penultimate stop at Saint-Auvent has some exciting discoveries in store along the way. 🤩

Start with an invigorating break at Étang de la Pouge, a haven of peace where nature reigns supreme. 💚

Take the opportunity to recharge your batteries by admiring the peaceful scenery and observing the local wildlife that evolves around this preserved ecosystem. 👀

Psst….By following the interpretation trail, discover and appreciate the natural environment that surrounds you thanks to its explanatory panels!

An ornithological observatory is even available to allow you to discreetly observe a multitude of water birds, such as the purple heron or kingfisher, which are present depending on the season. 🔎

Then, don’t miss the opportunity to discover Petit Lourde on Terra Aventura, “Perinqueta’s new challenge”. A fun and rewarding way to discover the hidden treasures of Saint-Auvent. 🕵🏻‍♀️

07 Step 07

Rochechouart

This is it, the end of your journey – you’ve arrived in Rochechouart! 🚴🏻

Take time to stroll through its charming market town and don’t miss the opportunity to discover its small local shops. ✨

Don’t miss:

The majestic Château and its Museum of Contemporary Art, witnesses to the region’s rich and eventful history 🏰

The Astroblème National Nature Reserve, where you can discover the impact of a meteorite millions of years old, leaving behind a unique and fascinating landscape. ☄️

The church with its bell tower, an architectural curiosity that’s sure to intrigue you. 👀

For an authentic experience, stop by Ferme Therr’Happy, where you can taste fresh localgust fresh local produce and meet the passionate farmers. 🧀

Finally, sample the local delicacies with the region’s specialty, Rochechouartais. 😋

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France's most beautiful detours

Welcome to Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, a charming little village nestled in the 💚 of the Limousin.

You’ll be seduced by its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque landscapes ✨

Between its medieval alleyways and century-old church, this gem of the Haute-Vienne invites you to discover its preserved heritage and its small shopping town!

A natural site

L’étang de la Pouge, a magical place in the 💚 bocage landscape of PNR Périgord-Limousin.

32 hectares of nature included in the European network of Natura 2000 sites.

Its interpretation trail and ornithological observatory are just waiting for you 👀

Limoges

Limoges, elegantly combines tradition and modernity ✨

Famous for its world-renowned porcelain, the city offers a rich cultural spectrum, between its fascinating museums and medieval architecture 🤩

Stroll along the quays of the Vienne or sample delicious local gastronomy in the picturesque brasseries, you’ll be charmed by its authenticity and gentle way of life.

La Vélidéale in Limousin

La Vélidéale, a fascinating 600-kilometre bicycle route, is a true invitation to cycling adventure through varied landscapes 🚴🏻

Crossing bucolic, urban and wild territories, this route offers a unique experience for cycling enthusiasts.

Discover hidden treasures, meet friendly locals and experience unforgettable moments ✨

Manifesto, I am La Vélidéale!

I’m La Vélidéale, the positive cycling itinerary that invites you to a unique experience!

I embody this new cycle route, stretching from the Lac de Vassivière to the Port of Saint-Nazaire, I have an optimistic, committed and diverse personality 🚴

Between coastline, countryside, mountains and charming villages, I offer an environmentally conscious cycling adventure enriched by authentic local encounters 🌿

I invite you to discover our territories with respect and passion, as part of a program of sustainable development and environmental education.

I prepare