Royère-de-Vassivière / Bugeat La Vagabonde

At the Lac du Chammet, you reach the département, or county, of Corrèze and can explore some of the Plateau de Millevaches, a major northern upland of Massif Central (France’s central-southern mountainous zone), reaching almost 1,000m in altitude. This area has been nicknamed ‘‘France’s water tower’’; not only is it covered in lakes and peatbogs, but many significant rivers also rise here, notably the Vézère, Vienne, Corrèze and Creuse. This distinctive area is great for cycling adventures, riders able to enjoy both unspoilt landscapes and the feeling of freedom they impart. The way is dotted with small heritage delights, such as plank-bridges, Gallo-Roman vestiges and carved stone Christian crosses, as well as the low stone walls dividing up many fields. There are dense forests of deciduous trees and pines, and moors, peatbogs and prairies, making for varied landscapes. Many migrating birds appreciate these parts. Looking skywards, you may even spot a short-toed snake eagle!