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Category: Adventures

Day Trips and Activities in the Limousin

Discover the Magic of Autumn in Central France

Family Frolic in Autumn Leaves

Here in the heart of Central France, where autumn is painting our world with its pretty warm, rustic colours, it’s the perfect time for families to come together and make beautiful memories. We’ve got a little something for everyone- serene nature walks, farm delights, and of course, a sprinkle of Halloween fun! Read on for some of our top recommendations for exploring this magical season and the wonders that make our part of the world so special this time of year. Sedelle Arboretum This botanical garden is home to over 400 species of trees from all over the world and is recognised by the Ministry of Culture as one of France’s “Remarkable Gardens.” It offers a delightful stroll alongside the Sedelle River where you’ll spot all kinds of trees, plants, and flowers, and even a unique eco-friendly house. One of its stand-out features is the abundance of maple trees that turn a beautiful fiery red this time of year. The Monts de Gueret Considered a paradise for outdoor adventurers, this site is a playground with a huge range of activities, including mountain biking, climbing, and orienteering. As you explore, you’ll come across colossal monoliths shaping the landscape, tranquil lakes, dense woods, and breathtaking panoramic views. The best part? You can rent mountain bikes and have an instructor guide you through all the activities that cater to everyone’s fitness levels. The Ruins of Chateau de Châlucet Atop the heights of Briance, the Chateau de Châlucet has been a fascinating piece of history for nearly nine centuries. Although this medieval fortress now rests in ruins, its ancient stones echo the tales of a rich past, all brought vividly to life today through immersive visits and fantastic digital tools. Using the smartphone app “Haute-Vienne Explor Games®” you can take your pick from 5 activities, that range from leisurely guided walks to fun interactive games. Ferme des Claustres A visit to the Ferme des Claustres is always a lovely family experience that strikes the perfect balance of an educational farm and animal park. The (approx) 2 km course, which takes around 2 hours to complete offers a shaded path that’s accessible even with a pushchair, complete with benches along the way if you need a quick stop. As you wander through spacious enclosures, you’ll find a wide variety of animals moving freely and peacefully and children, in particular, will cherish the opportunity to interact with camels, goats, alpacas, and more. Verges de L’Aumaillerie For a quarter of a century, Marie Claire and Laurent Jaudinot have lovingly tended to their orchard cultivating an array of fruits; strawberries, raspberries, cherries, pears, and more. In the autumn, you can revel in the joy of handpicking your own apples, each tree bearing a different variety for you to explore. There’s a charming creperie on site, where they serve mouth-watering crepes crafted with all the local, homegrown ingredients. The combination of orchard-fresh fruits and yummy crepes is sure to be a hit with the entire family on a crisp autumn day. Halloween Thrills Our list of autumn magic wouldn’t be complete without a list of spooktastic Halloween activities! Here are a few of our favorites: Musee National Adrien Dubouche: The witch Barbotine in the kitchen Themed event with games and surprises (November 5, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m) Colette Gardens in Varetz: Decorated Gardens, treasure hunts, pumpkin decoration, face painting and more Limoges City Centre: Fun workshops in the underground caves, arts and crafts workshops run by the Town Hall Chateau Rochecouart: Fun and games Haunted Labyrinth of Gueret: All the usual fun of the maze but with a spooky twist!   Find your Dream Vacation Home in France Are you dreaming of owning a luxury holiday home in one of France’s most picturesque regions? Discover the unparalleled beauty and tranquility of our lakeside resort at Halcyon Retreat Golf and Spa. Perfectly situated in the heart of Creuse, our resort offers a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural scenery. To learn more about our exquisite properties for sale and how you can make this enchanting retreat your own, contact us today.

Lake Vassiviere – A Day Trip from Halcyon Retreat Golf and Spa Resort

Aerial View of Lake Vassiviere in France

Here in Creuse, and close to the borders of the Haute Vienne and Indre,  Halcyon Retreat is surrounded by a wealth of incredible destinations perfect for day trips. If you’re looking for the ultimate summer spot, head to beautiful Lake Vassivière, where the beauty of nature meets exhilarating outdoor activities. Just over an hour’s drive from our luxury resort, Lake Vassivière offers an idyllic setting for a day trip. This expansive lake spans over 1,000 hectares and boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, fishing, and water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. During the warm summer months, you’ll find families having fun picnicking on the shores and children bathing in the inviting waters. Water Sports Wonderland Lake Vassivière is a water sports paradise, with activities to entertain the entire family. Children can enjoy water parks and beaches where they can splash around and swim. With a variety of water sports equipment available for rental, including paddleboards, kayaks, and pedalos, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the lake and burn off some energy. For those seeking a bit more adventure, wakeboarding and waterskiing are also on offer, with experienced instructors ensuring a fun and safe experience for all ages. Art and Culture One of the highlights of Lake Vassivière is the Centre d’Art Contemporain, a modern art museum located on a picturesque island in the middle of the lake. This cultural gem features a rotating collection of contemporary artworks, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations and performance art. The museum also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, and workshops, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Land-Based Activities If water sports aren’t your thing, Lake Vassivière offers plenty of activities on dry land too. Explore the scenic hiking and cycling trails that wind around the lake or enjoy peaceful horseback rides through the lush surroundings. For those who prefer to relax, the lake features several beaches with sandy shores and grassy areas, perfect for sunbathing, picnics, and strolls. Shaded areas and benches provide comfortable spots to rest and take in the breathtaking views. Dining Delights After a day of adventure, indulge in the diverse dining options around Lake Vassivière. Enjoy a meal at Auberge du Lac, a popular restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the water, serving delicious French cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. For a more casual dining experience, La Plage offers tasty burgers, pizzas, and salads right on the beach. Nearby towns, such as Peyrat-le-Château, offer charming restaurants like Chez Mimi, where you can savour classic French dishes in an intimate atmosphere.   Lake Vassivière is a beautiful and vibrant destination perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, trying thrilling water sports, or exploring the stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone at this incredible location. Halcyon Retreat Golf and Spa Resort Premium Residences for Sale Here in the Limousin region of France, and situated just 10 minutes from La Souterraine station on the TGV line running from Paris to Bordeaux, you couldn’t find a more central hub for your French holiday home. Keep following our blog for more fantastic ideas for great days out from your luxury holiday home and enquire today to find out how you could own a luxury apartment or forest villa here on the resort. With over 60 fun activities onsite, including an 18-hole golf course, a world-class spa, children’s activities, and more, there’s something for everyone. Plus, enjoy generous guaranteed annual rental returns if you choose to place your property into the rental scheme. Speak to one of our Property Consultants to find out more  

Escape the Light Pollution and Gaze at the Stars at Halcyon Retreat

Experience the beauty of the night sky at Halcyon Retreat, a stargazer’s paradise located in rural France. Our top tips for stargazing, including the best time of year, weather conditions, and moon phase, will help you make the most of the heavenly view. Plus, nearby attractions like the Mille Vaches Nature Park and the “Starry Nights” event offer even more opportunities to admire the stars.

Festive Outings December 2022

After enjoying cosying up with a sumptuous Chocolat Chaud and admiring the beautiful winter scenery that engulfs the Chateau and grounds, it’s time to feel into the festivities and what better way than to wrap up warm and explore some of the many fantastic Holiday events the area offers? In the Limousin region of France, you’ll find small and quaint local village markets, wonderous ornate displays at historic Chateaux and everything in between. Our local historic sites and villages, already full of charming character,  take on a whole new magic when they glow under strings of twinkling fairy lights, and fill with the aroma of steaming mulled wine and roasted chestnuts! Here, we give you our top picks for some of the best local Christmas activities, where you can be sure to soak up the festive atmosphere. Limoges

Terror-ific Fun for Halloween

Wondering how to celebrate Halloween in Central France this year? Read on to discover a ghoulish list of events, guaranteed to create thrills and chills for all the family!

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