VILLAGE D'AUTOIRE

Between Gramat and Saint-Céré, on the causse warmed by the sun, Autoire is one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Renaissance version, nestled in a green circus hemmed with white rock. By law, it is a cascade of brown roofs. Autoire unfolds in a harmony of colours. There is a fountain, half-timbered houses, elegant manor houses flanked by turrets. Long protected by the viscounts of Turenne, Autoire breathes a serenity that its 8 centuries of existence have firmly anchored. Manor houses and castles were built here, giving the village the nickname of "Little Versailles". The site is home to two jewels, one built, the other natural. There is the Autoire waterfall and the English castle. The charm of Auoire owes much to its exceptional environment: a cirque of limestone cliffs from which the Toire rises in an impressive 30 m high waterfall, the highest in the department. Hiking along the marked GR is very popular. It follows the ridge path and reveals exceptional views. The change of scenery would not be complete without a visit to the fortress of the English, incredibly close to the cliff of the cirque. This castle was used by the English companies during the Hundred Years War and then served the brigands of the surrounding area. Since then, serenity and peace have prevailed in the exceptional environment of this circus where only the tumult of the waters breaks the surrounding calm. Among the built heritage, don't miss the beautifully restored square dovecotes.

You should also know that the cliffs of Autoire are recognized as a high place for climbing with more than 150 routes of different levels. Climbers come from far and wide to confront these routes in an exceptional environment that contributes to their pleasure. The site also shelters a departmental site classified as Sensitive Natural Areas rich in biodiversity to be protected, the ENS de la Reculée d'Autoire with a 3.7 km interpretation trail. Indeed, the cliffs are the refuge for many birds of prey that like to nest there and a varied flora also finds favourable conditions there. In fact, when discovering Autoire, whether on footpaths or by climbing routes, it is important to keep in mind that it is important to be discreet in order to preserve a precious natural balance.

Good to know: 200 m from the viewpoint of the waterfall, the Siran farm is an ideal spot for those who have forgotten to take a drink! You will find a choice of local drinks there.