Aubusson / Chambon-sur-Voueize

This stage starts at Aubusson, French Capital of Tapestry. Cycling beside the waters of La Naute and Les Landes lakes is a joy for nature lovers. Also explore the village of Chambon sur Voueize, its imposing 11th-century abbey church, dedicated to St Valery, boasting exceptional Romanesque art.

The route

Following quiet country roads, this 49km stage, with c.360m of cumulative elevation, is relatively short, with some nice descents and few difficulties. However, be aware of the gentle slope lasting 8km, going from Aubusson to the village of Saint Amand. All along the way, the cycle route is indicated by green and white signage.

Link to Chambonchard (13km, 185m cumulative elevation)

You can take the 13km link from Chambon sur Voueize, via Évaux les Bains, to the village of Chambonchard, on the border with the county of Allier.

Don’t miss:

• Aubusson: the historic town, with the contemporary Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie beside it, is part of the association Les Plus Beaux Détours de France. Since 2009, Aubusson´s exceptional tapestry-making traditions have featured on UNESCO’s list of immaterial World Heritage.
• Étang des Landes: the largest natural lake in the Limousin (covering 100 hectares), a veritable nature reserve, where 600 species of animals and 430 species of plants have been identified. Make the most of the observation posts here.
• Étang de la Naute: this lake has facilities for both swimmers and anglers. 
• Chambon sur Voueize: the French public voted this village 3rd in the popular TV show ‘Le Village Préféré des Francais’ in 2014, its remarkable Romanesque abbey church playing its part.