Montagnac-la-Crempse combines a municipality largely covered by forest with a village centre where the river, old stone houses and historic remains reveal different sides of the area. When planning a stay, it is worth considering the landscape and local history together: the forests shape the wider setting, while the church, reliefs and cluzeaux offer specific points of interest in the village. There are also named walks that start in the village. This makes it possible to plan your stay around your own interests, whether in the landscape, architectural history or outdoor activities.
Forest, water and La Grange
Montagnac-la-Crempse is a green municipality of hills and valleys. Its area covers 2,549 hectares, more than half of which is forested. These figures make the forest a defining feature of the landscape. The Crempse crosses the municipality from east to west below the village centre. The details complement each other at different scales: the forest cover describes the municipality as a whole, while the Crempse follows a course below the village centre. La Grange lies west of the village centre. It covers 29 hectares and is listed as a protected site; the designation was made on 14 September 1987. Its 29 hectares represent a smaller scale than the area of the municipality as a whole.
Church, reliefs and village history
Some old stone houses in the village centre retain Gothic windows. The Church of Saint Martin in the village centre dates from the 15th and 17th centuries. It contains the polychrome wooden reliefs “La Visitation” and “Jésus au milieu des docteurs,” both from the 17th century. Polychrome refers to the use of multiple colours in a work. Since 30 November 1999, both reliefs have been classified as protected objects. The comparison is clear: both works share the same century, material and protected status, but have different titles. However, the local heritage is not limited to church art. Several cluzeaux are scattered around the village; they were used as storage spaces for grain and water. This earlier use shifts attention from sacred works and façades to practical storage.
Walking routes and orientation
Two named walking routes start in Montagnac-la-Crempse. The “Boucle de Montagnac” starts there. The 13.04-kilometre walk “Boucles de Montagnac, Saint-Julien-de-Crempse et Picatao” passes through the municipality, starts in the village and returns to its starting point. This loop offers a specific distance and a return to the starting point to help you choose a walk; the Boucle de Montagnac also starts in the village. The information board for the circular routes is opposite the church entrance. Check local advice before setting out, as trail conditions and markings can change.
Accommodation tip for travellers with horses
Logis Saint Martin can accommodate up to six horses during riding holidays or at the accommodation. If you are travelling with a horse, you can take this specific capacity into account when choosing where to stay.
Discover more destinations: Parcoul, Coutures, Nanteuil-Auriac-De-Bourzac, Saint-Pierre-De-Côle, Vanxains, Saint-Michel-De-Double, Trélissac, Monsec
Return to the regional travel guide: Dordogne.
