Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / France / Limousin / Haute-Vienne / Limoges
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| | | Rural France at its finest |  | Why go on holiday to Limoges?
Imagine tranquil, green hills, charming villages and glittering rivers and lakes. The surrounding countryside around Limoges is often overlooked by tourists but the region is rural France at its best.
Tucked away in the south west, the city makes a pleasant short break holiday with fantastic outdoor pursuits on its fringes such as sailing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. In fact, you'll love it so much that you'll want to stay longer.
How much will it cost?
Moderate hotels start from around £47 per night for a double room. Look out for low cost airline deals with Ryanair.
When should I go?
It's best to go in summer. Temperatures can climb to the mid-20Cs but they fall to around 5C in December.
Who's it for?
Culture vultures, outdoor lovers, Francophiles and those who like weekend breaks to new destinations.
What are the must-sees?
Start off in the Chateau Quarter, where you can visit an ancient crypt, tower and the Eglise St-Michel des Lions distinguished by two granite lions and a huge copper ball perched atop its 65metre high spire.
Take a peek inside at its beautiful stained glass windows. Then stroll to Rue de la Boucherie – named because of the butchers' shops that lined the street in the Middle Ages – and the nearby streets graced with half-timbered houses.
Culture vultures should then wander towards the Cite Quarter, where the crumbling remains of the 13th century St Etienne Cathedral – one of the few Gothic churches built south of the Loire – remains. Surrounding the building are the botanical gardens, where flowers blossom alongside medicinal and toxic herbs. Nearby Rue Haute Cite is lined with pretty four-hundred-year-old houses boasting granite and half-timbered facades.
Afterwards, pop into the Musee Municipal de l'Eveche which displays a stunning collection of enamel for which Limoges is renowned. It has been produced here since the 12th century. The Galerie du Canal boasts a pricey but contemporary display for sale, while the Musee National Adrien Dubouche offer a fantastic ceramics exhibit.
Holidaymakers should also consider making the 30 minute bus trip to Oradour-sur-Glane, the site of a horrific SS massacre on June 10 1944 when 642 locals were killed by German troops. Since that day, the entire village has been left untouched – tables and chairs lie around in a cafe, rusty vehicles remain in the ruins of a garage and the houses are furnished with moss-covered bedposts and bikes. The crypt-like memorial next to the cemetery displays personal effects of the people killed. No doubt about it, this is a thought-provoking day trip.
Nearby Aubusson is renowned for its tapestries and carpets, Uzerche is a picturesque town worth visiting for its turreted Maison a Tourelles and the Correze area includes some of the region's most attractive towns and villages.
What will I spend?
As a rough guide: a three-course restaurant meal is from £20, a short taxi ride (3kms) £6, a beer is from £2, a litre of petrol from 65p, a roll of film (24 exp) £3. All prices may vary.
Any special events?
Limoges is one of 30 towns in the region which hosts the International Festival of Theatre, Music and Literature during September and October.
From July 7-August 25, in nearby Brive-la-Gaillarde, an imposing chateau opens its doors to the public for a classical music Vezere Festival.
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| | Fact File : Limoges |
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| | | Limoges | | Did you know?
About 47 per cent of the town's inhabitants are under the age of 30.
Language
French
Visas
None required for UK passport holders.
Getting there
Air France and British Airways offer indirect flights from the UK. Ryanair offers low cost flights direct.
Flying time from London
One hour and 40 mins.
Currency
Euro
Costs
As a rough guide: a three-course restaurant meal is from £20, a short taxi ride (3kms) £6, a beer is from £2, a litre of petrol from 65p, a roll of film (24 exp) £3. All prices may vary.
Weather
Temperatures can climb to the mid-20Cs but they fall to around 5C in December.
Time difference
GMT +1
International dialling code from UK
00 33
Voltage
220v
Opening hours
Most banks open Mon-Fri, usually from 9am to noon and from 1pm to 3.30pm or sometimes later. Few open on Saturday mornings. Post offices open Mon-Fri 8am to 7pm.
Health – before you go
Obtain an EHIC form from the post office, or online from the Department of Health at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or by calling 0845 606 2030. Also take out adequate travel insurance.
Health – when you are there
No major health problems in France. French pharmacies are usually marked by a green cross and can be very helpful.
Warnings
Don't take your credit card to the casino, you might get carried away.
Emergency
Police 17, Fire 18, Ambulance 15.
Customs
The French 'faire les bises' – kiss each other on both cheeks to say hello and goodbye (don't try it on the waiter though, it's for friends and family only).
Pets
It's de rigueur to walk around with a small poodle in tow. Watch out for the doggie do they leave on the streets. You can bring your own dog (or cat) under the pilot Pet Travel Scheme, as long as you've got all the required paperwork and vaccinations. This takes several months to set up — check with your vet for details.
Tipping
A couple of francs used to be sufficient, so try not to be seduced into putting a euro down – unless the service has been superb.
Tourist office
178 Piccadilly, London W1V OAL. Tel 09068 244123 (60p per minute).
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