Vigeois: Abbey, Vieux-Pont and Trails

You can get to know Vigeois through several specific places and trails: the Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Vigeois and the Vieux-Pont reflect the town’s long history, while Lac de Pontcharal combines a recreational lake with a short circular trail. Nature and hiking destinations include the Vigeois yew tree and the sixth stage of the GR®46; the festival takes place every year on November 1.

The Abbey and Vieux-Pont: history with clear dates

The Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Vigeois combines a long history with a clearly dated heritage listing. Its earliest recorded mention dates back to 572; the abbey has been listed as a historic monument since July 12, 1886.

The Vézère is part of the Vieux-Pont’s history, too; the bridge is also known as the Pont des Anglais. It was built before the end of the 14th century on the site of an earlier ford. The Vieux-Pont has been listed as a historic monument since November 14, 1969, and was restored in 2004 and 2005.

A lakeside stroll or a hike on the GR®46

Lac de Pontcharal is a 15.2-hectare recreational lake, located 3 km from the center of Vigeois. A 2.7 km circular trail runs around the lake. It is considered easy and takes an average of 42 minutes. Trail conditions may depend on local maintenance; check them before your walk.

The Vigeois yew tree also brings nature and history together. It is believed to be 1,400 years old. Beneath its branches is a small “inner garden.” Visitors can observe young green shoots, red bark and small animals there.

For hikers looking for a greater challenge, the sixth stage of the GR®46 is another option. It starts in Vigeois and leads to Estivaux. At 14 km, it is considered a difficult hike. The route follows the Vézère valley and passes through fields and protected woodland. Compared with the circular trail at Lac de Pontcharal, it is a very different proposition in terms of length and difficulty. This lets you choose based on your preferred distance and level of challenge.

A culinary date in the annual calendar

Vigeois also has a recurring culinary event in its annual calendar. On All Saints’ Day, the Association de la Pomme et le Boudin organizes the Fête de la pomme et du boudin. At this festival, Boudin aux châtaignes, a Corrèze specialty, takes center stage every year on November 1. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the event date in advance.

Discover more destinations

Sadroc, Roziers, Lagleygeolle, Saint-Merd-les-Oussines, Montaignac-Saint-Hippolyte, Brignac-La-Plaine, Alleyrat, Saint-Hilaire-les-Courbes

Back to the main travel overview: Corrèze.