Visit Collonges-la-Rouge
Discover Collonges-la-Rouge, a medieval village built of red sandstone
Located in the heart of the Corrèze department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Collonges-la-Rouge, a medieval village surrounded by greenery, is distinguished by the red sandstone that colors all of its buildings.
Collonges-la-Rouge was the first village to be recognized among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," a label created to revitalize the area, which had fallen into disuse during the 19th century.
Collonges-la-Rouge, saved from ruin by tourism.
Founded in the 8th century by monks from Charroux Abbey, Collonges-la-Rouge reached its peak in the 15th and 16th centuries. The village now houses 25 towers and turrets, giving the town its nickname, the "City of 25 Towers."
Collonges-La-Rouge is a small village of fewer than 500 inhabitants, where the notables and magistrates of Turenne once established their homes. The village is built entirely of red Meyssac sandstone, which gives its homes their color.
Art and architecture lovers will also find something to their liking, with several points of interest, some of which are listed as historical monuments:
- The Maison de la Sirène, a 16th-century house. Open to visitors, it houses a town museum and literary exhibitions.
- The Church of Saint-Pierre, built in the 11th and 12th centuries, features Limousin Romanesque architecture with its sculpted portal and ornate capitals.
- The Château de Benges, a former 17th-century residence below the village. Now privately owned, its walls and facades can still be admired in detail.
- The Château de Vassinhac, dating from the 16th century. Although private, the château is open and you can enjoy a drink on the terrace after your visit.
The picturesque cobbled streets, lined with wisteria and Virginia creeper, offer an ideal discovery trail for visitors. As you wander through them, you'll glimpse former noble and magistrate homes.
Collonges-la-Rouge was once a wine estate renowned for its sacramental wine. But the destruction of the vines by phylloxera around 1880 began a slow period of decline for the town, which was almost abandoned before becoming a must-see tourist attraction in Corrèze.
While the village no longer has its historic vineyards, you can still taste local walnut specialties at the Moulin de la Vie Contée, not far from Collonges-la-Rouge.
Going Out in Collonges-la-Rouge: Tourism and Hiking
Discover the walking trails surrounding Collonges-la-Rouge. This village unveils landscapes where vineyards and walnut trees mingle with red sandstone monuments. Collonges-la-Rouge is the starting point or crossing point for around twenty hiking trails, including:
- The GRP Midi-Corrézien or "Three Villages" trail (12 km) connecting Collonges-la-Rouge to Turenne and Curemonte, three sites classified among the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
- The Sources Trail (2.5 hours) is dotted with markers that will tell you about the village's history.
- The Devil's Chair (6.5 hours), an 18 km trail suitable for the most dedicated hikers, will introduce you to the Meyssac geological fault.
A Logis Hotel near Collonges-la-Rouge for a relaxing break.
Walking and hiking are at the heart of Collonges-la-Rouge's activities. Located 45 minutes away, our Logis Hôtel le Relais des Monédières welcomes you after a long day of physical activity.
Our charming, authentic rooms and the dishes of our master restaurateur chef will ensure you're well-rested and have the energy you need to explore our beautiful region.
Book your room now by calling +33 5 55 27 04 74 or via our website.
