Solignac combines walking routes through the town with distinctive heritage along the Briance and around the former abbey. If you are looking for accommodation for a stay combining walking and culture, two specific questions can help you choose: What route length fits your plans, and are you particularly interested in the medieval bridge or the architectural features of the former abbey gate? Seasonal events may also determine when a visit fits into your plans.
Walking routes of different lengths
The GR4 crosses Solignac from Les Ricardies in the north to Les Crouzettes in the south. The Grande Boucle du Pont Rompu is approximately 12 km long. The Sentier de la Briance is an easy 7.5 km circular route, with a stated duration of two hours. The Grande Boucle is therefore longer; for the Sentier, a specific time estimate is given in addition to the distance. This lets you factor both distance and duration into your plans. Check the conditions on your chosen route before setting out; markings on the GR4 may also change.
The Sentier de la Briance passes the abbey church with its series of domes and the medieval bridge over the Briance. Those who choose this route will therefore encounter both the riverside landscape and two specifically named buildings. The GR4 follows a different course: it crosses Solignac from north to south.
Pont Rompu and the former abbey
In the 12th century, monks built a bridge over the Briance so that pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela could more easily reach the route leading from Bourges to PĂ©rigueux. The Pont Rompu over the Briance was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and has four arches. It has been listed as a Monument historique since 21 June 1990. The sequence of arches is a distinctive architectural feature of the bridge, which the Sentier de la Briance passes.
The entrance gate to the former abbey of Solignac has a portal with a basket-handle arch, as well as two small niches framed by columns and topped with pediments. The gate has also been listed as a Monument historique since 24 January 1944. The two buildings have different features: the Pont Rompu has its four arches, while the gate is distinguished by the design of its portal and niches. These specific forms offer a way to appreciate Solignac’s architectural heritage.
The Briance Valley and the Route Richard CĹ“ur de Lion
Below Solignac, the listed Briance Valley provides an exceptional green setting for the town. This landscape adds another perspective on Solignac alongside its individual buildings. The town is also the second stage of a road trip along the Route Richard CĹ“ur de Lion. Solignac is therefore part of a named travel route, although the walking trails should not be assumed to follow its course.
Concerts, a producers’ market and a discovery trail
The abbey church hosts concerts; individual concert dates may change. The Concert aux Chandelles in Solignac is held in December. If a concert is the reason for your trip, check the specific date in advance.
At the Marché des Producteurs de Pays, you can meet local producers. They offer farm-made, regional and seasonal products under a quality charter. Visitors can speak directly with the producers and put together a meal using local products. Dates and programmes vary by season, so check the market details before visiting.
The Terra-Aventura discovery trail in Solignac is called Le Jeu d’Eloi. If you would like to include this discovery trail in your trip, check its availability in advance. This lets you choose among walking routes, historic buildings, cultural events and the seasonal producers’ market according to what matters to you during your stay.
Discover more destinations: Peyrat-Le-Château, Pierrefitte, Saint-Bonnet-De-Bellac, Verneuil-Moustiers, Saint Leonard De Noblat, Coussac Bonneval, Château-Chervix, Ambazac.
For the broader travel overview: Haute-Vienne.
