Ayen walks

This route takes you on a journey through history: the commune belongs to the Vézère-Ardoise Land of Art and History because this strategic site was chosen by the Viscount of Limoges and then elevated to a duchy by the Noailles family. As you stroll through the picturesque narrow streets, discover the heritage linked to water with its fountains and wash houses, and the imposing residences. The church of Ayen and its elements listed as historic monuments will arouse your curiosity!

Ayen, Saint-Robert, Perpezac-le-Blanc and Segonzac are among the hilltop towns of the Yssandonnais region. Located in the foothills of the Massif Central, they all share a unique geological feature: they are isolated hills with very distinctive flora and fauna that are well worth observing or photographing. Since 2011, these towns have been part of the Vézère-Ardoise region of art and history.

Ayen is a nature destination between Limousin and Périgord! In the past, these well-oriented, sunny hillsides were used for vineyards, but today they are home to fruit crops: the Limousin apple route passes through Ayen. You will cross walnut groves: Ayen, the birthplace of the Corne variety, has been listed on the "Périgord Walnut" route since 2002.

The original village and its castle. This route leads to the hamlet of Ayen Bas, the original settlement known in the 12th century as ‘Ayen l’Église’. Remnants of this rich past include the Château de la Chabroulie and the Razat manor house. Imagine, too, walking up the nave of the Romanesque church, demolished at the end of the 19th century, whose architraves, modillions and paintings from the main door were incorporated into the construction of the present-day church in Ayen.

The name "Ayen" most likely derives from the Gaulish word "Agin", meaning "height". On this circular route, your eyes will be treated to unique views at every turn, right up to your arrival at Puy d'Ayen, the highest point in the Yssandonnais (377m), offering a 360° panorama. This limestone formation is known as a ‘Butte témoin’ and constitutes a rare ecosystem in need of protection (orchids, orchis, butterflies).

This is a circular route in the Yssandonnais region, alternating between footpaths and deserted roads, which allows you to admire the magnificent village of Saint-Robert and a fountain dedicated to a martyr.

A short, easy walk around the Puy d’Yssandon with some lovely views.

A short, easy walk in the hills above Objat, half on roads, half on footpaths.

This route offers various views of the village of Juillac and the surrounding area.

This route offers a mix of meadows, apple orchards, woodland and a stream. It allows you to explore the surrounding countryside, with the Château de Hautefort to the west and the limestone hills of Ayen Yssandon and Saint-Robert.

This route crosses the Montcheyrol forest, classified as a ZNIEFF (Natural Area of Ecological, Faunistic and Floristic Interest). This is a beautiful walk in a wooded area dominated by deciduous trees, including oak, beech, chestnut, ash, black locust and cherry, through the heart of which flows the Tourmente river, which has carved out its territory by shaping the rock. This walk can be extended with a stroll through the streets of Juillac, among its characterful houses with slate roofs.

This route allows you to explore the villages of Chabrignac and Juillac, as well as numerous scenic viewpoints. It follows almost exclusively tarmac roads. It is, above all, a very easy walk, accessible to everyone and requiring no special equipment .

A very pleasant walk through the forest, offering exceptional views of the Objat valley at the end of the route.Best done at the weekend to avoid any disturbance from quarry activities. User comment on 24 August 2025.(!) After the ruins of Patel, the footbridge (4) that crosses the river has collapsed and it is not possible to ford the river. A detour is signposted on site. This detour takes you to Rouffignac. Alternatively, you can follow "le chemin du Maquis", which is a little technical at at the moment. Comment from a user on 29 December 2025.The second footbridge (under the ruins of Patel) has been repaired and the path can be followed as indicated.

A pleasant walk on the heights of Voutezac, with magnificent views over the Brive valley and Voutezac.

A lovely walk that combines the pleasure of walking with a sense of remembrance. You will follow in the footsteps of those very young resistance fighters who stood up to the Nazi occupation and gave their lives for our freedom. Thank you to: Mario, Charles, Athos, Edouard, Raymond, Léon, André, Jacques, Jean, Marcel, Guy Jules, Gaston..... Lest we forget.