Bonnac-La-Côté: Cycling, Landscapes and History

Bonnac-La-Côté is accessible via the A20, exit no. 27. Check road conditions before travelling. When choosing a destination, there are several different things to focus on: the deeply cut valley of the La Mazelle, protected landscapes, historic buildings, cycling opportunities and fishing waters. You can first decide whether you are primarily interested in landscapes, cycling, fishing or history; the specific differences can then help you plan further.

Landscapes in the Valley and at Salesse

The La Mazelle valley is deeply cut and has wooded areas and numerous bodies of water. Water and woodland together shape the landscape here. The protected area of Salesse, designated a “Site inscrit,” is also part of the landscape. It includes the remarkable hamlets of Salesse and Lavaud in the communes of Bonnac-la-Côte and Compreignac. The area lies in an agricultural valley with an open landscape, edged by wooded slopes and hills. Open spaces thus sit alongside wooded ridgelines. Visitors should observe the rules of the protected area.

Historic Traces

The Château de Leychoisier is a historic monument in the valley. The oldest tower is said to date from the 9th century; this dating is expressly tentative. The estate is private, and public access may vary. The local history also includes former monasteries: the monasteries in the town centre and in Drouille Noire belonged to the Benedictines. Check on site which structures remain and what access is possible. Chapels were added to the church in the 15th century. The historic landmarks therefore range from the château and former monasteries to the history of the church’s construction.

Cycling and Routes

The Circuit des Vallées is 13 km long. It takes about three hours on foot and about one hour by mountain bike. The times therefore vary depending on how you travel; check the signs and route conditions before setting out. Bonnac-La-Côté also has certified Nordic walking routes for different levels of difficulty. Check conditions before setting out on these routes, too.

Another cycling option is the Tèrra-Aventura route “Les cyclistes ont la côte!”: it is 14 km long and starts at the Vélodrome Raymond Poulidor. Check the route’s availability and geocaching content before setting off. The velodrome has a 250 m concrete track. Since 2019, an inflatable roof has enabled year-round use. Check the conditions for public use before visiting.

Fishing at Two Bodies of Water

Fishing and relaxation in green surroundings are possible at Étang de Mortemare. Fishing rules may change; check them before your visit. Carpodrome de Tracheras is a fishing venue open all year round. Fishing there is entirely catch-and-release. Access is restricted to holders of a fishing licence with the “Carpodrome – Tracheras” or “Parcours spécialisés” option. Opening and permit conditions, as well as fishing rules, may change; check the current requirements in advance.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Sulpice-Les-Feuilles, Magnac-Laval, Marval, Mortemart, Dompierre-Les-Églises, Condat-sur-Vienne, Chamboret, Vaulry.

For the regional travel overview: Haute-Vienne.