Born of the combination of the Corrèze, Haute-Vienne and Creuse Departments, the modern French region of
Limousin is located in central France. These departments together give rise to two main historical provinces,
Limousin and Marche and also contribute to small parts of other former provinces, namely Angoumois, Poitou,
Auvergne and Berry.
Limoges is the largest city and historical capital of the province of
Limousin, and is also the capital of the administrative region of
Limousin. Today, the
Limousin region is the second less populated French region and is home to just under 750,000 persons, with the majority of those being concentrated in the province of
Limousin.
This rural region provides peace and tranquility in its unspoiled, remote landscapes. The beauty of old castles, churches, charming bastides and villages dotting the green wooded hills is complimented by the many rivers, deep gorges and “1,000” lakes. This is a definite attraction for water-sports lovers and creates the perfect environment for kayaking, sailing, canoeing and fishing. The region has only one large town, the capital city
Limoges which is well known for its porcelain.
It is often referred to as France profunde (that is, “heartland of France”), and is seen as somewhat of a bridge between the relaxed south and the more industrious serious north of the Mediterranean. Though it is often driven-by and remains a victim of neglect, the popularity of
Limousin is now increasing among tourists searching for the perfect off-track holiday in quintessential, old-fashioned France. Cost of living and even property costs are significantly lower than in neighbouring regions, making it a little more popular among foreign nationals looking to buy second homes. For those seeking restoration projects, there remains a vast amount of deserted and/or run-down properties.
Though it lacks particularly fertile soil, the fresh country side of
Limousin is perfect to support cattle and other livestock, accounting for greater than 90% of the total agricultural output, thus making this the major industry of
Limousin. French food conglomerate BSN and other such companies in the agro-foods industry have put down roots in
Limousin as a result of their attraction to the region’s large agricultural sector. The region is well known for its ox with sweet chestnut, and potato with sheep tongues, ideally served with a glass of Branceilles wine of the south of Corrèze.
The area in and around
Limousin has recently been targeted for economic development and a number of companies have been given subsidies and incentives for setting up business in the region. New investments include research institutions, a science park and about 12,000 companies coming to the region. Legran, a world-renowned leader in the production of low-voltage electrical supplies and equipment has sited its manufacturing centre and headquarters in the region. In addition, the 550,000 hectare woodlands of
Limousin have until now been an untapped resource, and as such the region’s paper and pulp industry is now undergoing a great deal of expansion.
The cheap property costs and the new developmental activities now taking place make
Limousin a place of great potential for newcomers in search of a green, tranquil living environment and multiple employment opportunities.
