Collonges-la-Rouge: The Ultimate Guide to Collonges-la-Rouge
Collonges-la-Rouge is an extraordinary medieval village in the Corrèze department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, renowned for its striking red sandstone buildings that give it a warm, glowing appearance. As the founding member and first village classified as one of France's "Plus Beaux Villages de France" in 1982, it features turreted houses, cobbled streets, fortified towers, and rich heritage, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere on the edge of the Limousin plateaus facing Quercy.
Famous for its 25 towers, the Romanesque Église Saint-Pierre with dual naves, the 16th-century Château de Vassinhac, and picturesque corners at every turn, Collonges-la-Rouge offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and serene beauty. It's an ideal day trip or base near Brive-la-Gaillarde, with artisan shops, local cuisine, and proximity to Dordogne attractions.
This ultimate guide covers the best things to see and do in Collonges-la-Rouge, including its fascinating history, top highlights, walking routes, practical tips, and how to get there — everything you need for an unforgettable visit to this iconic red jewel of France.
History of Collonges-la-Rouge
History of Collonges-la-Rouge
Collonges-la-Rouge traces its origins to the 8th century when monks from Charroux Abbey founded a priory here, attracting peasants, craftsmen, and pilgrims on the route to Rocamadour and Santiago de Compostela. The village prospered under the Viscounts of Turenne, gaining rights to high, medium, and low jurisdiction in 1308, fostering lineages of lawyers and notaries.
Built entirely from local red Permian sandstone due to a geological fault, it features medieval noble residences, towers, and the 11th-15th century Église Saint-Pierre (with unique dual naves for simultaneous Catholic and Protestant services in the 16th century). The village declined after losing privileges in 1738 and phylloxera devastation in the 1860s, but revived in the 20th century. In 1969, Mayor Charles Ceyrac added "la-Rouge" to its name; he founded the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" association in 1982, with Collonges as the first member.
Highlights of Collonges-la-Rouge
Collonges-la-Rouge enchants with its uniform red sandstone architecture, creating a dramatic, photogenic scene against green surroundings. The car-free village invites exploration of winding streets, medieval houses with carvings and turrets, and panoramic viewpoints. Key sites include the church with its legends and the restored Château de Vassinhac.
Art galleries, artisan boutiques, and cafés enhance the experience, while the natural red hue (from geological fault) and 25 towers add unique charm.
Key highlights:
- Église Saint-Pierre – Romanesque church with dual naves & carved details
- Château de Vassinhac – 16th-century castle with furnished rooms & views
- 25 medieval towers & turrets across the village
- Red sandstone houses & cobbled streets
- Maison de la Sirène & other historic mansions
- Chapelle des Pénitents (15th century)
- Artisan shops, galleries & local crafts
- Surrounding countryside walks & views
Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Collonges-la-Rouge
A visit to Collonges-la-Rouge typically takes 2–4 hours (longer with château tour). Park in free lots at the village entrance (center is pedestrian-only with cobbles and gentle slopes).
1. Village Entrance & Streets – Begin at the main approach. Wander narrow lanes admiring red stone houses, towers, and flower-filled balconies — photo opportunities everywhere.
2. Église Saint-Pierre – Visit the Romanesque church (free entry), explore the dual naves and admire architectural details from the 11th-15th centuries.
3. Château de Vassinhac – Tour the restored 16th-century castle (fee; includes furnished rooms, Colette's bedroom, spiral staircase, and cellars with history photos).
4. Chapelle des Pénitents & Maison de la Sirène – See the 15th-century chapel and iconic mermaid house with carvings.
5. Scenic Loops – Follow paths for village panoramas or short countryside walks. Visit artisan shops or relax at a café terrace.
6. Optional: Devil's Chair Legend – View the oddly shaped rock outside the village tied to local folklore.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for uneven cobbles. Visit early or late to avoid crowds. Combine with nearby sites like Turenne or Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. Check tourist office for guided tours or château hours.
Getting to Collonges-la-Rouge
Collonges-la-Rouge is rural, best accessed by car, with limited public transport options.
By air: Nearest airport is Brive Vallée de la Dordogne (BVE, ~13-20 km, 20-30 min drive). For more flights, use Limoges (LIG ~1.5h) or Bordeaux (BOD ~2h). Rent a car; taxis available but scarce.
By train: No station in Collonges. Nearest is Turenne (~6 km) or Brive-la-Gaillarde (~20 km). From Paris, TGV to Brive (~4-5h), then taxi/bus/car. Regional connections from Bordeaux or Toulouse to Brive.
By car: Via A20/A89 motorways (exit 52 Noailles-Collonges). From Brive ~25 min, Sarlat ~45 min. Free parking at entrances. Essential for flexibility in the area.
Tips: Car highly recommended for rural Corrèze. Scenic drives. Bus from Brive possible but limited. Book summer transport ahead.
Fun Facts about Collonges-la-Rouge
Collonges-la-Rouge has a legendary and pioneering heritage. Here are some interesting facts:
- It was the very first village to join the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" association in 1982, founded by its former mayor Charles Ceyrac.
- The name "la-Rouge" was added in 1969 to distinguish it from other Collonges and highlight its unique red sandstone from a geological fault.
- The village boasts around 25 towers and turrets, earning nicknames like "city of 25 towers."
- The Église Saint-Pierre has two naves for simultaneous Catholic and Protestant services during the Wars of Religion.
- Local legend includes the "Chaise du Diable" (Devil's Chair), a strangely shaped rock outside the village tied to folklore.