Contemplative disconnection at Lac de Vassivière

Day 1: Vassivière Island, a multi-faceted jewel in the heart of the lake!

For this first stopover, head to Vassivière Island (Haute-Vienne) for a day of discovery full of contrasts. Surprising, unique, inspiring, contemporary, authentic… it’s a concentrate of Vassivière on an island. Enjoy its serenity and choose your option!

Are you an artist?

• An artist at heart: a visit to the Centre international d’art et du paysage (CIAP) and its sculpture woods is a must! This astonishing contemporary building, with its beacon tower and breathtaking view, houses exhibitions, a bookshop and organizes regular events and workshops.
• For the whole family: go on a treasure hunt, in search of the Tèrra Aventura ” Culture with feet in the water” cache. An original way to get off the beaten track.
• Contemplative: stroll along the many paths and let yourself be challenged by the contrast between contemporary works and the old stones that once made up the ancient village of Vassivière. Linger at La Pierre à pain, the island’s century-old bakery, where Benoît – a baker and artist – brings passion, tradition and creativity to life each season. Observe and smell the plants in the jardin des simples.
• Active: you can also discover the island by paddle during CIAP’s canoeing events to admire the works of art seen from the lake, and you can even “ride” the skateboard or BMX bowls of OTRO’s work.

• 100% local: L’Ile de Vassivière takes visitors on a journey through the works of art of the Centre d’art, of the Ile, but also of local products and craftsmen from the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. In July-August 2024, a new ephemeral space dedicated to regional know-how will showcase some thirty companies, offering for sale a varied and accessible range of products, as well as pieces reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. To help you develop your creative side, the workshop area will be offering courses open to all, subject to registration. From Easter to All Saints’ Day, the Boutique de l’île will be showcasing local specialities and know-how, as well as gift ideas, including handcrafted creations, sweet and savoury delicacies and 100% Limousin souvenirs.

Lunch break

For lunch, don’t forget to take a gourmet break at the ” Pré du Lac” restaurant on Vassivière Island, serving simple, local produce. with its simple cuisine based on local produce, or simply a warm slice of cheese or organic vegetables fresh from the Pierre à Pain.

Overnight stay:

Head for the charming village of Masgrangeas. A small road bordered by a low dry-stone wall, a local tradition, leads you to a tree-lined farmhouse perched high above the landscape…. Welcome to“La maison des écureuils“, where Jean-Yves and Sylvie offer you a warm welcome and a dinner cooked with local produce. For a “total letting go”, a return to yourself, Sylvie offers unique and personalized services: energetic massages, relaxation and relationship advice… Remember to book at the same time as your overnight stay!

Day 2:

Take advantage of the morning calm for a hike to suit you, whether you’re an early riser or a late riser:

• The Chassagnas peninsula, on the border between Creuse and Haute-Vienne, protrudes into the heart of Lac de Vassivière, forming a lock between the lake’s two main bays and offering a unique 180° viewpoint. 7.5 km – 2h
• The Lande du Puy de la Croix interpretation trail winds its way through a protected site, between granite sculptures evoking the leagende of this place and landscapes typical of the Plateau de Millevaches (moor, peat bog, Drosera, juniper forest, etc.) to an orientation table with an exceptional panorama of the lake.

Lunch break and afternoon:

After crossing the discreet Vassivière dam, make your way to Vassiviera. If you haven’t opted for a waterside picnic, take a seat at l’Encas Local and savor Limousin flavors revisited in a “Chill” space with a breathtaking view of the lake. If you ‘re looking for an immersive, thrilling escape-game-style experience, choose“Le Barrage“. If you want to keep with tradition, choose“Le sentier des légendes” and discover the secret of Limousin legends in a journey of unique landscapes. New for 2024,“L’île aux serpents, à la recherche du trésor perdu” offers an exciting canoeing adventure departing from Auphelle beach! Places are limited, so book well in advance: 05 87 07 04 53 – Vassiviera.fr