Soursac is a commune in Corrèze in the region of New-Aquitaine, bordering the department of Cantal, about 50 km east of Tulle. The course of the Dordogne which runs east of the territory of the locality materializes the "border" with the Auvergne.
However, from a geographical and geological point of view, Soursac belongs to the Massif central, established on a plateau whose mean altitude is 550 m which overlooks the Dordogne to the east and south and the course Of La Luzège, one of its tributaries, to the west. With a population of about 500, Soursac has paid a heavy price for the rural exodus, its population having exceeded 2,000 inhabitants in the last third of the nineteenth century.
Formerly owned by the Viscount of Turenne, the commune has retained a typical farming activity of middle mountain (cattle breeding, exploitation of its forests of oaks, chestnut and conifers).
More recently, tourism has become the other vector of economic development of the locality, notably via its viaduct classified Historical Monument which spans the gorges of La Luzège, a leisure base and generally its rich natural environment (Rivers, waterfalls, biodiversity).
A step or a stay in Soursac can begin with a walk in the village whose oldest houses are traditionally covered with slates of the region or slate.
There are many elements of small heritage (ovens, common well), and the church of Saint-Julien, rebuilt in 1878 on the remains of older buildings. In a pure Romanesque style, it contains several statues, including a polychrome wooden sculpture, nearly one meter high representing Sainte-Marie-Madeleine (16th century).
A circuit through the village that can be covered in one hour, listing the most interesting heritage features and building details, has been designed. Information on +33 5 55 27 52 61.
But it will be necessary to leave the heart of the village and cross hamlets and isolated farms to discover the other sites not to be missed.
This is the case of the black rocks viaduct which spans the gorges of the Luzège that overlooks 92 m. Inaugurated in 1913, it was borrowed until 1959 by the train that linked Tulle to Ussel. Classified as a Historic Monument in 2000, this spectacular structure is forbidden for vehicles and pedestrians out of guided tours for groups, from May 1 to October 15. Price: 1 to 3 euros. Contact the +33 5 55 27 52 61. There is also a "Himalayan" footbridge located below the viaduct. Its access is delicate (narrow and sloping path).
On the Dordogne River this time, a visit to the EDF Space at the Aigle Dam will reveal an impressive structure (290 m long and 90 m high), which will regulate the course of the River while producing electricity. Its history is also singular. Begun in 1935, its construction was delayed by the resistance during the second war so as not to give the occupant more energy reserves. Guided tour of the dam, discovery of the principles of hydroelectricity and a "hut" reproducing the daily life of the workers who built the dam. On reservation at +33 5 34 39 88 70.
In general, the gorges and waterfalls along the course of the Dordogne, labeled UNESCO, can be the object of many hikes. You can also admire them and enjoy spectacular views by taking a gondola ride from Spontour, a hamlet that was for decades the place of construction and the starting point of these flat-bottomed boats that transported the chestnut woods and Oak for the Bordeaux wine growers. Duration of the commented walk: 1h15. In May, June, September and October: Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, departures at 14:30. In July and August: Saturday, Sunday and Thursday at 15:30 and 17:30. Prices: 7 and 9 €. Reservation required at +33 5 55 95 88 78.
At the hamlet of Lamirande, this time, to see, the chapel built in the 1950s near a rock where Marie-Madeleine would have appeared to shepherds. A pilgrimage takes place every year on July 22nd.
For lovers of hiking (on foot or mountain bike), many circuits have been designed on various themes, including heritage sites or natural remarkable areas, along streams (waterfalls) or level by Example of the forest of Frétigne whose fauna (eagles and hawks, in particular) and the flora are protected. All brochures and information on +33 5 55 27 52 61 or +33 5 55 26 32 47.
Soursac and its region are also a paradise for fishermen. Information on the most suitable places and regulations at +33 5 55 26 11 55.
Finally, the 8 hectares of the Pont Aubert lake allow you to reconcile farniente and sporting leisure. Bathing is supervised in July and August. On the site, children's games, water slide, possibility to rent pedal boats or canoe-kayak, archery area... Information on +33 5 55 27 52 61.
