In the surroundings

The village of Bort-les-Orgues: between stone giants and water-based pleasures

Nestled in the heart of Corrèze in the Massif Central, Bort-les-Orgues is a destination full of character and spectacular panoramas. Named for its famous basalt columns, impressive volcanic formations that tower over the town like an army of giants frozen in time, it goes without saying that nature here is impressive!

For an unmissable stop for tourists staying at the Aubazines campsite, take the climb up to the Orgues de Bort site. After a short hike accessible to all, you will discover an exceptional view of the Dordogne valley, the lake and the town’s rooftops. Don’t forget your camera…

On the way back down, the centre of Bort-les-Orgues is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, stopping at Saint-Germain Church, the lively little squares and the small shops. To recharge your batteries, what could be better than a short break on a terrace, over a coffee or a regional speciality (yes, cheese is definitely on the menu).

Just a few minutes away, don’t miss the Bort-les-Orgues dam. Its enormous size is truly impressive. A remarkable feat of engineering, it was built to hold back the waters of the Dordogne River, creating a huge lake that’s perfect for outdoor activities. The view from the dam is definitely worth the detour!

Bort-les-Orgues is a subtle and delightful blend of spectacular nature, heritage and a gentle way of life. It’s a destination where you come to explore, breathe… and why not come back?

Lake Bort-les-Orgues: a life-size playground where you can enjoy cooling off

Directly accessible and visible from the campsite (yes, that’s what holidays are all about), Lake Bort-les-Orgues offers peaceful waters and fantastic scenery, making it a unique place to enjoy your holiday as it should be enjoyed. A must-see in the region, it is a true haven of freshness stretching over several kilometres and offering the perfect setting for lovers of nature, leisure and relaxation (nothing less).

As soon as the sun comes out, the lake becomes the ideal spot for water sports. Whether it’s canoeing, water skiing, paddle boarding or sailing, enjoy the thrill of being on the water (without hurting yourself, but you’re in good hands) and savour the surrounding landscapes. No need to be a seasoned athlete: here, everyone goes at their own pace, with breathtaking views as a bonus. For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, the beaches are waiting for you to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

But the lake is also a paradise for anglers, renowned for its diversity of fish. So settle down by the water’s edge with a little patience and enjoy the peace and quiet (and maybe fish will come to you…).

The lake’s shores are ideal for walking or cycling. The trails offer beautiful views of the water and surrounding hills. Not to mention its friendly atmosphere where you can relax: picnic areas, shaded areas and relaxation areas allow you to share a simple moment with family or friends.

With its leisure activities, natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, Lake Bort-les-Orgues is the perfect place to alternate between activity and relaxation, without ever getting bored… unless that’s what you want, of course.

Getaway to Château de Val: a fairytale setting by the waterau Château de Val : un site digne d'un conte de fées au bord de l’eau

Elegantly nestled on the shores of Lake Bort-les-Orgues, the Château de Val looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. With its proudly towering turrets, pointed roofs and reflection in the water, it is one of those places that is definitely worth a photo!

Built in the 15th century, the château has stood the test of time without losing any of its charm. Its exceptional location, surrounded by the lake, gives it an almost magical atmosphere. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most visited monuments in the region.

A visit to Château de Val allows you to discover its interior rooms, stone staircases and temporary exhibitions that showcase local art and heritage. The tour is accessible and enjoyable, perfect for a cultural outing that doesn’t feel like a never-ending history lesson. Here, you learn as you walk around, which makes all the difference.

The area surrounding the castle is ideal for a stroll along the water’s edge or a contemplative break. The surroundings offer superb views of the lake and the surrounding hills. It is the perfect place for an impromptu picnic or simply to sit and enjoy the peace and quiet… until someone suggests one last photo.

In summer, Château de Val comes alive with cultural events, concerts and exhibitions, adding a lively touch to this already spectacular setting. Day or night, the château remains impressive, especially when the light changes, making each photo unique.

Château de Val is the perfect combination of heritage, nature and elegance!

Because there's no shortage of beautiful panoramas: discover the Site du Mont!

Located a few minutes from Bort-les-Orgues and perched on the heights, the Site du Mont is a must-see for all lovers of nature and wide open spaces. Here, you don’t need a mountaineering certificate: a short walk is all it takes to reach the incredible viewpoints overlooking the Dordogne valley and Lake Bort-les-Orgues.

The site owes its name to its rugged terrain and impressive ridges, offering a 360° panorama of green forests and, on a clear day, views stretching as far as the Cantal mountains! Something to amaze the whole family. And that’s without moderation.

The Site du Mont also offers a great opportunity to recharge your batteries. The paths leading there are lined with rocks, small clearings and shady spots where you can take a break to breathe or enjoy an impromptu picnic. It’s easy to see why locals come here regularly to reconnect with nature.

In short, the Site du Mont promises a complete change of scenery, where the beauty of the landscape can be savoured with every step, with just the right amount of effort!

Put on your walking shoes and set off on the most beautiful hikes around the campsite...

Around Les Aubazines campsite, hiking is inevitable (but that’s fine, it was part of your plans). Here, the trails start right outside the campsite and wind their way through forests, valleys and spectacular panoramas. Whether you’re a Sunday walker or a seasoned hiker, there’s a route to suit everyone… and always a beautiful view at the end!

One of the must-see hikes is the Orgues de Bort, which immerses you in the heart of these impressive volcanic formations. The accessible and well-marked trail leads to exceptional views of the village of Bort-les-Orgues, the lake and the Dordogne valley. It’s the kind of walk where you stop often, officially to admire the scenery… unofficially to recover from the climb.

The trails around Lake Bort-les-Orgues, on a gentler route, run along the shores and through wooded areas for a peaceful family walk. They allow you to enjoy the calm of the water and the coolness of the undergrowth. An ideal walk in summer!

Lovers of wilder nature will enjoy hiking in the Massif Central mountains, which are easily accessible from the campsite. These trails offer an impressive variety of landscapes: meadows, forests, ridges and unobstructed views. And the panoramas are definitely worth the detour…

For those who like to combine walking with heritage, several routes pass close to charming villages and historic sites, such as the Château de Val. The ideal compromise between adventure and leisurely strolls.

A true journey into the heart of history and nature: head for the Saint-Nazaire site

Just a few kilometres from the campsite, the Saint-Nazaire site is a place where history meets nature. This sublime site immerses you in breathtaking scenery.

Here, you are invited to discover the ruins of the ancient Abbey of Saint-Nazaire, a site steeped in mystery and beauty. The remains of this abbey have retained their incredible charm. Here, you can stroll among the ruins, letting yourself be transported by the history of this place, which has seen monks, pilgrims and travellers pass through over the centuries.

But the site is not just about its historical heritage; it also appeals to all nature lovers. Following the paths that wind around the ruins, you will find yourself immersed in lush vegetation, dotted with forests, meadows and streams. It is the kind of place where you take your time to admire all the scenery!

The hiking trails that criss-cross the Saint-Nazaire site are suitable for all levels, from leisurely strolls to slightly more challenging hikes. You can easily spend half a day here, combining historical discoveries with contemplative breaks by the streams. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a shy deer!

Adventure on the Dordogne river: between peaceful waters and magnificent landscapes

Near Bort-les-Orgues, embark on a new aquatic adventure! The Dordogne is ideal for gentle yet spectacular boat trips. Here, the water flows calmly between hills and forests, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and the joy of being outdoors.

For families, the banks of the Dordogne offer picnic areas and quiet beaches. Lay out your blanket, take out your basket and enjoy the gentle sound of the water and the birds singing.

Finally, these trips also allow you to discover the local heritage from a different angle. You can see the Château de Val, the surrounding hills and sometimes even picturesque villages along the river. Every turn reveals a little surprise. And it makes you want to come back for more!

Welcome to the Tannery and Leather Museum: the heart of Corrèze craftsmanship

For a fun family outing, discover the Tannerie et du Cuir Museum in Bort-les-Orgues. It’s an invitation to step back in time and discover ancestral craftsmanship. Here, you can touch, observe and understand how leather has shaped local life over the centuries. So there’s no room for boredom!

The museum traces the history of tanning in Corrèze, covering the entire manufacturing process. You can discover the different stages of tanning, the tools used by craftsmen and the techniques that have been perfected over the years. And all this is explained by enthusiastic guides.

You can also see old machines, some of which are still in working order, which bear witness to the meticulous work of the tanners, as well as exhibitions. And if you too dream of trying your hand at this craft, the museum sometimes offers practical workshops where young and old alike can try their hand at leatherworking and leave with a unique souvenir made by their own hands. An original outing, after which you can show off your brand new knowledge!

A true spectacle of nature: immerse yourself in a breathtaking adventure amid the gorges and waterfalls of Corrèze

Around Bort-les-Orgues, it seems that nature does not do things by halves. And that’s just as well, because we come here to recharge our batteries in the fresh air. Here, water skilfully shapes the landscape, creating refreshing waterfalls and spectacular gorges, perfect for family walks.

For your first stop, the Lys waterfalls (3 km away) are among the most popular in the area. Nestled in lush greenery, they also offer a beautiful walk in the heart of the forest. The trail, accessible to all levels, winds its way through moss, rocks and century-old trees until it reaches the waterfall. The view is well worth the walk!

A little further on, the Saut de la Saule (8km) impresses with its power. This wilder waterfall is reached after a short walk through unspoilt surroundings. The contrast between the dark rock and the rushing water is a real feast for the eyes!

Another stop 9 km away, the Gorges de la Rhue offer a spectacular setting. Carved out by the river, they reveal steep cliffs and breathtaking views. The hiking trails allow you to walk along the river for several kilometres, with routes suitable for both families and experienced hikers.

Around these sites, there are numerous marked trails offering a variety of pleasures. You can alternate between undergrowth, footbridges, riverbanks and high vantage points. These routes are perfect for a half-day hike in the cool air, not to mention an impromptu picnic! And don’t forget your good walking shoes…

Visit to the Château d'Auzers: medieval elegance and well-kept secrets...

About 40 minutes’ drive from Bort-les-Orgues, the Château d’Auzers is a place that makes a lasting impression as soon as you arrive. With its slender round towers, moat and medieval atmosphere, it looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. And yet, here, history is very real… and still alive.

Built in the 13th century, the château has been inhabited by the same family for centuries, giving it a rather authentic atmosphere. The guided tour allows you to discover the richly furnished rooms, tapestries, impressive fireplaces and period objects. All this is narrated by a passionate guide.The Château d’Auzers is also distinguished by its perfectly preserved moat, which surrounds the building and adds to the charm of the place.

Don’t forget to enjoy the outdoors: the gardens and surroundings of the château are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Wander around the buildings and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The castle also hosts cultural events, exhibitions and occasional activities, which bring even more life to the place! An ideal outing for the whole family.

Exceptional sites surrounded by nature that are not to be missed around Corrèze...

For our first suggestion, Puy de Sancy, the highest point in the Massif Central, is a must-see for lovers of wide open spaces. Accessible by cable car or marked hiking trails, it offers spectacular views of the Auvergne volcanoes. Up there, the panorama is simply breathtaking: ridges, valleys and lakes stretch as far as the eye can see. Whatever the season, it’s the ideal hike for recharging your batteries in the heart of nature.

For a second excursion, we recommend Les Monts du Cantal, neighbouring Sancy, which offers a slightly wilder and more unspoilt atmosphere. Here, the landscapes are made up of vast summer pastures, rounded ridges and green valleys where cows graze peacefully. In short, it’s a peaceful place full of surprises.

If you’re looking for traditional villages, stop off at Salers. As well as its delicious cheese, it’s listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and charms visitors with its volcanic stone houses, cobbled streets, small craft shops and perfectly preserved heritage.

Collonges-la-Rouge offers a different atmosphere, famous for its red sandstone buildings that give it a unique identity. The contrast of colours, the charm of the narrow streets and the warm atmosphere make this village a must-see. A rather photogenic village!

We promise, the campsite will then offer you a good night’s rest after all this travelling… but you won’t be disappointed!