An authentic city nestled on the banks of the Dordogne, Argentat is a natural destination, perfect for holidaymakers who love to stay in the countryside.
Typical of the villages of the upper Dordogne valley, Argentat is nicknamed the capital of the gabariers. With its slate roofs, picturesque streets and cobbled quays, this characterful town offers an attractive resting place. Historical and rich in varied architecture, Argentat will surprise you with the beauty of its listed monuments. Take the time to stroll along its quays to soak up its tranquil atmosphere: you will discover superb residences with flowered wooden balconies, typical of the region's buildings. Its narrow streets steeped in history will plunge you into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages: the former convent of the Récollets (12th century), but also the Quai Lestourgie and its wooden gallery dwellings, the magnificent Château du Bac, the Bastier district and its traditional houses, the Vigerie and the Maison Forte de Soulages are among the most visited sites in Argentat. Go through the Republic Bridge, the rue du fer, the 16th century convent of the Poor Clares, but also through the rue Porte Basse to discover the location of its former fortified gate, and then take the time to contemplate the 17th century half-timbered houses in Place Delmas. Visit the Ursulines convent in Neuville castle, the Saint-Hilaire manor and its oil and wine presses, the splendid Eyrial manor, the Saint-Pierre church, and finally linger on the Croix des Gabarriers: located at the level of the Joan of Arc school, this cross was blessed by the monks of the convent of the Récollets to bring good luck to the boatmen before they embarked in their barges, these flat-bottomed boats which were at the time intended for transporting vines, oil, leather, cheese, coal and wood.
A real breath of fresh air in this little corner of paradise called Corrèze, Argentat is a raw jewel nestled in a preserved setting. Hiking is widely practised there, thanks to a vast network of itineraries for pedestrians and cyclists. The heritage trail, the riverbank trail or the Argentat ridge trail are particularly recommended: the latter, which is about ten kilometres long, will take you through the beech and chestnut woods to the plateaus surrounding the city. Along the Dordogne, Doustre and Souvigne rivers, you can admire some of the most beautiful panoramas Argentat has to offer. A little further on, the Honey Lake in Beynat, the Cascades de Murel, the Chastang dam, the Tours de Merle, those of Carbonnières, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne or the Cascades de Gimel are to be added to the list of visits that we recommend during this Argenteuil stay.
As for activities, in addition to hiking and cycling, Argentat is not to be outdone and offers its visitors a wide range of outdoor sports to practice according to your wishes. Barge rides, canoe or kayak trips to Monceaux, Brivezac or Beaulieu, stand-up paddle discovery of the city, archery, canyonning, via ferrata, tree climbing, fly fishing... Everyone will find their happiness!
Finally, on the side of the plate, Argentat offers a wide choice of delicacies to enjoy without delay: pie with pebbles, omelette with mushrooms, milhassou, chestnut dishes, trout with bacon, clafoutis and other mushroom-based specialities will satisfy the stomachs of gourmands!
