Collonges-la-Rouge, with its flamboyant red sandstone houses, is one of the most photographed villages in France. Listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", it attracts thousands of visitors every year. But where to stay to make the most of this jewel of Corrèze?
Collonges-la-Rouge in Brief
- Department: Corrèze (19)
- Population: Approximately 500 inhabitants
- Distinctive feature: Buildings made of local red sandstone
- Label: Most Beautiful Villages of France (founding village of the label)
- Distance from Rocamadour: 45 km (45 min)
Why Stay in the Surrounding Area?
Collonges-la-Rouge is a small village, mainly visited during the day. Accommodation on site is limited and often expensive. It's often wiser to stay in the surrounding area and visit the village as a day trip.
Advantages of Staying Nearby
- More choice and availability
- Better value for money
- Possibility to visit other sites in the region
- Fewer parking constraints
Distances from Nearby Towns
Travel Time to Collonges-la-Rouge
- Brive-la-Gaillarde: 22 km (25 min)
- Turenne: 8 km (10 min)
- Martel: 20 km (25 min)
- Rocamadour: 45 km (45 min)
- Sarlat: 45 km (50 min)
Where to Stay Near Collonges-la-Rouge
Option 1: In the Village Itself
A few guest houses and cottages exist in the heart of the village. The advantage: experience the unique atmosphere of Collonges at sunrise and sunset, when the tourists have left.
- B&Bs: Some owners offer rooms in their character houses
- Cottages: Seasonal rentals in red sandstone buildings
Good to Know
Accommodations in the village are rare and often booked long in advance, especially in high season. Plan to book several months ahead.
Option 2: Neighbouring Villages
Another Most Beautiful Village of France, 8 km away. Medieval hilltop village with castle, beautiful views over the Corrèze countryside.
Accommodation: Guest houses, rural cottages
Advantage: Combine the visit of two gems in one stay
Neighbouring town also built in red sandstone. Less touristy but equally charming.
Accommodation: Small hotels, B&Bs
Advantage: Immediate proximity, more affordable prices
Third Most Beautiful Village in the area, with its three castles and turreted houses.
Accommodation: Charming cottages
Advantage: Preserved village, very quiet
Option 3: Brive-la-Gaillarde
The sub-prefecture of Corrèze offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget to upscale hotels. Practical position for exploring the whole region.
- Distance: 25 min from Collonges
- Advantages: Restaurants, shops, TGV station
- Accommodation: Chain hotels and independent hotels
Option 4: Rocamadour (our recommendation)
45 minutes from Collonges, Rocamadour is an excellent base for exploring the entire region, including not only Collonges but also the Padirac Chasm, Sarlat and the Quercy villages.
Category: 3-star charming hotel
Location: On the heights of Rocamadour, panoramic view
Distance from Collonges: 45 km (45 min scenic drive)
Features: Pool, gourmet restaurant, free parking
Ideal for: Combining Collonges visit with Rocamadour, Padirac and Quercy
Why This Option?
By staying in Rocamadour, you can dedicate one day to Collonges-la-Rouge and the red villages of Corrèze, and the other days to the wonders of the Lot. It's the ideal solution for a 4-5 day stay in the region.
Day Trip from Rocamadour
Red Villages Circuit
- 9:00 am: Departure from Hôtel Les Vieilles Tours
- 9:45 am: Arrival at Collonges-la-Rouge, visit (2h)
- 12:00 pm: Lunch on site or in Turenne
- 2:00 pm: Visit to Turenne (1h30)
- 3:30 pm: Curemonte or return via Martel
- 5:30 pm: Return to hotel to enjoy the pool
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
- May-June: Ideal, lush greenery, moderate crowds
- September-October: Golden light on the red sandstone, grape harvest
- July-August: Very busy, arrive early in the morning
Parking
Free car park at the village entrance (300m walk). In high season, arrive before 10am to find a space easily.
Visit Duration
Allow 1h30 to 2h for a complete village tour. More if you want to have lunch there or visit the artisan shops.
Your Base for Discovering Collonges and Quercy
Settle in at Les Vieilles Tours and explore Collonges-la-Rouge, Rocamadour, Padirac and all the treasures of the region. Our team advises you on the best excursions.
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