GRP Midi Corrézien - Etape 1 : de Turenne à Noilhac

The hilltop town of Turenne overlooks the countryside in all directions. Atop the hill there remain the ruins of the 13th century medieval Château de Turenne. This castle served as the feudal powerbase of one of the most powerful dynasties in medieval France - the Viscounty of Turenne. They reigned over the regions of Limousin, Périgord and Quercy for almost 10 centuries from the early Middle Ages until the 1700s. The 14th century Keep and Guard’s room of the castle remain intact and when exploring this listed monument, a climb up the spiral staircase of the fortified towers is rewarded with truly spectacular 360 degree views. In the village below, the 17th century Church of Our Lady of St.Pantaleon is acclaimed for its magnificent stained glassed windows.

The Château de Turenne, an exceptional site between earth and sky! A remarkable site in the Corrèze, the Château de Turenne is a must-see destination for anyone staying in the Corrèze, the Lot or the Dordogne. Located 15 kilometres south of Brive la Gaillarde, it is an obligatory stop on your tourist circuit. Built on a rocky spur 350 metres high, the castle of Turenne is visible from all sides. From the courtyard of the castle, the views are breathtaking. You will also appreciate its beautiful medieval buildings, such as the two large 13th century towers, which stand proudly above the charming village of Turenne, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Enjoy the landscapes and the hanging garden thanks to the restoration of the Kiosque Gourmand in addition to an exhibition space dedicated to new technologies. 2023, the exhibition IRRUPTION! AI and artistic creation, by the artist Christophe Labarde.

The viewing table is situated on the round tower said about Caesar on the site of the Castle. We reach its summit by a spiral staircase. From there, we can admire a wide panorama indeed beyond the Dordogne valley of the south and, by favorable weather, up to the monts du Cantal. Private site, entrance fee.

Noailhac’s church has a Romanesque choir with arcatures. Its capitals are quite archaic (Adam receiving the apple from Eve, Daniel in the lion’s den). The nave – three 15th century bays – is vaulted with diagonal ribs and surrounded with two chapels, whose keystones bear the Noailles coat of arms. Notice the remarkable 12th century red sandstone baptismal font, and its chessboard decor.