Chambon-sur-Voueize / Aubusson

From Chambon sur Voueize, renowned for its imposing Romanesque abbey church of Sainte Valérie, dating back to the 11th century, cycle out into the heart of the countryside, passing one lake after another as you cross the Tardes Valley. Starting by climbing into the surrounding hills, enjoy panoramic views over the river, the abbey church and the town’s terraced gardens. This stage of La Vagabonde cycle route incites contemplation. For further marvels, press on to the Voueize Gorges. Along this stretch of cycle path sticking close to water, nature lovers will particularly enjoy the Étang des Landes, a lake classified as a Nature Reserve in 2004, as well as the Étang de la Naute. The atmosphere changes arriving at the historic town of Aubusson, internationally renowned as France’s tapestry-making capital.

The Route

This stage is shared with the Tour de Creuse cycle route. You ride along small roads with light traffic, covering a distance of 49km. Totalling a 360m positive shift in altitude, this stage is relatively short, much of it downhill, and it presents few difficulties. However, take care tackling the gentle but long slope lasting 8km from Aubusson up to the village of Saint Amand. All along this stage, green and white signposts guide you along the way.

Don't miss 

• Evaux les Bains: the sole thermal spa resort in the historic region of Limousin, worth a detour both to discover its thermal waters and its heritage, the pretty town boasting 2,000 years of history, its fine architecture dominated by the unmissable church of St Peter and St Paul.
• Chambon sur Voueize: a remarkable little town in the heart of the Tardes Valley, its extremely pretty houses with their brown slate roofs huddled around the imposing Sainte Valérie abbey church.
• Lussat: the Étang des Landes, the only natural lake of its kind in the old Limousin Region, covering 100 hectares, now classified as a national nature reserve, offering protection to over 400 plant species and over 600 animal species.