OT Pays Sostranien

On the outskirts of La Souterraine, set off on this guided walk which, from antiquity to the end of the Middle Ages, brings to life the daily lives of our ancestors. Human settlement here has a long history, the evolution of which can be traced through the landscape. From the shores of the Étang du Cheix to the sunken paths lined with boxwood, from the archaeological remains scattered throughout the countryside to the imposing silhouette of the castle, this excursion will transport you through time and across the ages.

A short stretch of quiet road marks the start of this route, which winds through the area around Bussière-Madeleine and continues along beautiful paths, crossing the Ruisseau de la Benaize. Charming discoveries also take us in the footsteps of a famous local figure.

A hike full of contrasts, alternating between sections on the plain and along the hillside. Unobstructed views, an intimate atmosphere and babbling brooks that gurgle more or less loudly depending on the season.

This short route takes you past the splendid buildings hidden away in the village of Azérables, before taking you up to higher ground to admire them once more, this time in their natural setting.

Not far from Vareilles, this is a pleasant walk that takes you briefly into the woods in question. From here, it’s perfectly possible to venture as far as the shores of the nearby Étang de la Chaume.

The Cazine ponds walking guide was produced in partnership with the Conservatoire d'Espaces Naturels and the local association A4P. It highlights the exceptional heritage around two ponds currently undergoing ecological conversion. The pleasant route alternates between distant views and the immediate surroundings of these wetlands. If possible, bring a smartphone with you to access the information provided along the route.

Cascading streams, mysterious places of worship and unexpected views set the scene for this short, fairly hilly route through the Versille countryside. You’ll pass from the Sédelle valley to the Chaudron valley, walking over the hills that form the geological fault line of the Marche fault. Where possible, do bring a smartphone to access the information provided along the route.

Starting from the little chapel at Le Dognon, this walk alternates between footpaths and small roads, and takes you to two places of notable interest: the Peu de l’Age, which offers a beautiful view overlooking the Vitrat pond, and the Bois de Bessac, much loved for its atmosphere and cool, refreshing surroundings.

The Bois de Derrière route combines wide paths, lovely tracks and small, well-shaded roads. The hedgerow landscape is a major part of the charm of this easy walk. Ponds, wash houses, fords, ditches and wet pastures: although subtle, water is present throughout the landscape. ⚠️ Please note: engineering works are underway on the railway line between points (1) and (2). From the start (S/E): take the road to point (2), or go directly to point (3).

Here is a short, easy route, at the centre of which stands a fabulous megalith, complete with its inevitable array of curses and frightening legends. The route consists of tracks, a stretch of road and a path, and is combined with a fitness trail between the dolmen and the village.

The Sos’trail is a permanent trail for trail running and Nordic walking, signposted over 10 km. It winds through the Sos’trail hinterland, taking in the Tour de Bridiers and the boxwood-lined sunken paths. Naturally, it is also suitable for traditional hiking and mountain biking.

The vast Étang de la Chaume conceals little-known spots that this interpretive route invites you to discover as you walk along part of the shoreline and wander through the surrounding woods and heathland. Please be considerate of wildlife and anglers, and wear sturdy footwear in wet weather.