Ussel Between Heritage and Nature

Discover Ussel through its museums and architectural history, as well as its trails and outdoor activities. This gives you a choice of different ways to plan your trip: explore the town’s history and art, or enjoy outdoor activities and nature around Lac de Ponty.

Museums and Architectural History in Ussel

Since 13 November 2002, the Musée du pays d'Ussel has officially been known as a Musée de France. Its collections include folk art and traditions, tapestries from the Marche region, printing equipment and religious art. The printing section displays machines from two printing houses that operated in Ussel. In summer, the museum hosts lithography workshops led by visual artist and lithographer Patrick Sauvat.

Religious art can also be found at two different sites. The Chapelle des Pénitents bleus in Ussel currently houses a museum of religious art; it is also home to an 18th-century altarpiece by Paul Delimosin. The Église Saint-Martin has a Romanesque choir and a Romanesque apse dating from the 12th century. A 900-metre historical route through the old town introduces the town’s history and also takes in the Hôtel Bonnot de Bay.

Another cultural venue is the digital museum Micro Folie La Grange. It presents collections from twelve national cultural institutions and offers virtual reality, a FabLab, creative workshops, conferences and performances. These digital and hands-on activities complement the historic collections and buildings.

Trails and Nature Around Ponty

The 18-hectare Lac de Ponty can be walked around in about 35 minutes. Signs around the lake provide information about the local wildlife and plant life. Important for planning your visit: swimming and water sports are prohibited there. If you’re interested in orienteering, Lac de Ponty has a permanent course recognised by the French Orienteering Federation.

The Parc arboretum du château de la Diège is also a lovely place for a walk. This 19th-century landscaped park features giant sequoias, Douglas firs, small cascades and a conservation garden with old apple varieties. The park is open year-round, free of charge and freely accessible. As opening conditions may change, it’s a good idea to check before your visit.

The pump track at Ponty is 200 metres long and features rollers and turns. It is suitable for bicycles, BMX bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters and balance bikes. In 2026, it is open year-round, seven days a week, free of charge and freely accessible. For another cycling option, try the 6-kilometre Grand tour de Ponty, which starts at the car park by Étang de Ponty in Ussel.

Getting There and Events

Ussel can be reached via exits 23 and 24 of the A89 motorway and is served by several bus and TER train routes. Check the timetables before travelling. The Journée de l'élevage showcases local produce and traditional crafts, with ongoing demonstrations and competitions for cattle and sheep. The event is open to everyone; check the specific event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Orgnac-sur-Vézère, Monceaux-Sur-Dordogne, Bugeat, Saint-Sornin-Lavolps, Naves, Rilhac-Xaintrie, Benayes, Saint-Yrieix-le-Déjalat

For the broader travel overview: Corrèze.