Beautiful holiday accommodation in Limousin...

Discover the 'real' France

St Germain les Belles is a perfect example of a fine Limousin village - peaceful, attractive and nestling in beautiful countryside. It also boasts many attractions:

• Tranquil village lake, sandy beach and childrens play area, with supervised swimming and pedalo hire throughout the summer. The bar / restaurant is open to the public in the summer and has some fantastic themed nights with live music.
• Two bar-restaurants and several shops selling delicious local produce.
• Typically French, winding, narrow streets and historic buildings, including the beautiful 14th century medieval village church.
• Festivals, markets, dances, cinema showings, children's activities...
• The village also boasts a bank, a railway service to Limoges, an estate agent, a petrol station, a pharmacy and 2 recycling points.

The 'French Lake District'

Limousin has been called the 'French Lake District' and it has a beauty and charm all of its own with some of the most unspoilt, natural landscapes in France. Within this enchanting scenery, you are never far from a tranquil lake or a huge network of meandering country walks across rolling hills and forests. You will certainly be able to experience a slower pace of life and true rural French culture.

We are surrounded by swimming lakes, beaches and outdoor swimming pools. The beautiful Lake Vassiviere, Europe's largest man-made lake, is only 45 minutes away and is also the site of the national contemporary art gallery. Please ask us for details of some of the best lakes or outdoor pools to visit, especially for those with young children.

The abundance of water within Limousin also means that there are some fantastic fishing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing locations.

Historic towns and villages

We are only 30 minutes away from the attractive city of Limoges - famous for its porcelain and old quarter. There is an abundance of interesting shops and boutiques, medieval churches, restaurants, antique markets and it is definitely well worth a visit. Other lovely historical towns and villages to visit include:

Pompadour (La Cité du Cheval) and its frequent equestrian events and château; Uzerche on the stunning Vézère River; Segur le château, one of the most beautiful villages in France; St Yriex la Perche, with its interesting shops, historic buildings and markets; St Leonard de Noblat, a stunning medieval town, surrounded by panoramic views; the lovely château at Coussac Bonneval.

Outdoor adventures

For the outdoor enthusiast and those of you who enjoy countryside rambling, there are numerous activities in the surrounding region. We can tell you all about our favourite walks, beauty spots and places to watch birds. If you enjoy cycling holidays, bicycle hire is available within the village and there are many local routes through quiet country villages.

There are also several Climbing locations in Limousin, including Aubazine (Saut de la Bergère), Bort-les-Orgues (Orgues), Gros-Chastang (Le Pont de Sagne), Uzerche (Rocher du Moulin in the Vézère Gorges) and Voutezac (Saut du Saumont).

Sample local Limousin cuisine

Local specialities of the region include clafoutis (tasty black cherry flan), simple salads with fresh chestnuts or walnuts, the famous Limousin Beef, chestnut crêpes, wild duck, dishes made from locally-collected mushrooms (including the prized cèpe), pâté de pommes de terre (a delicious pie made from potatoes, meat and crème fraiche) and other hearty fare!

Aside from the 2 great restaurants within the village ('Chez Kurko' and 'Roy Gourmet'), there are many more to discover, like the wonderful 'Auberge St. Roche', in the sleepy village of La Porcherie, just 10 minutes from St Germain les Belles; or the 'Ferme Auberge' just outside the village, serving up farm-produced dishes. We have been compiling reviews for many of them - please ask for more information.

Please contact us or have a look at our Links page for detailed information on the above and for more ideas on the wealth of places to visit.