Leisure bike route: in apple country

The route will appeal to both the young and the old!

The starting point of the route, Ayen, is the highest point of the Yssandonnais region at 370 m altitude. This micro-region, the Yssandonnais, is characterized by colorful landscapes, local buildings made from red and lighter sandstone, the presence of numerous apple orchards and many walnut groves. Some communes (including Ayen) in Yssandonnais are also part of the Apple of Limousin and Périgord Walnut routes, two AOP-labeled products.

The charming commune stands out for its diverse heritage under different themes… For example, small heritage linked to water: fountains and washhouses.

You can also marvel at the remarkable noble residences along the village, including the Château de la Chabroulie.

The religious heritage is also notable with the beautiful church of Ayen and its classified elements that will arouse your curiosity.

Classified as a Green Station for its preserved nature offering ZNIEFF (Natural Zones of Ecological, Faunistic and Floristic Interest), hiking trails starting from Ayen village allow you to discover natural riches composed of different species of orchids and butterflies…

Don’t forget to visit the arboretum, a perfect walk before heading off on a short getaway.

Your journey will be enhanced by 4 viewpoints close to the route. Also, take a small detour to admire the astronomical observatory, located less than 1 km from the route, to delight astrology enthusiasts!

Before returning to Ayen, a stop at Perpezac Le Blanc is highly recommended! Enjoy a short walk in a colorful and flowery setting. The mine path is a 3 km route that takes you to discover botany in a remarkable natural setting. Information panels guide you throughout your progress, providing an opportunity to learn more about reading landscapes, geology, literature, and the village’s history. To make the experience more fun, a free game booklet titled "The Secret of the Bérane" is available for children. It can be picked up at the town hall or downloaded from the commune’s website.