Today, we're going on a treasure hunt with (or without?) the kids! Let's explore an ancient site together, with ruins, and enjoy a lovely walk in the forest. And to motivate everyone, nothing beats a game! Zellé le Poïz takes us on a journey through nature and transports us into the tales and legends of the Carbonnières Towers. Everything is in place for a wonderful family afternoon. A 4km walk is tiring, but under a beautiful sun, relaxation and fun are guaranteed!



Xaintrie Landscape

The Carbonnières Towers

In Goulles en Xaintrie, the Carbonnières Towers are the remains of two keep towers, standing in the heart of nature. A feudal fortress once stood here in the early Middle Ages (11th century), and only a few ruins and two square towers remain in a completely natural setting. An abandoned village, Magnificent landscapes … A truly cinematic setting! Set off with family or friends for this easy and fun walk thanks to the Terra Aventura trail.


Goulles
Goulles


It's free ; you play by downloading an app on your smartphone. We recommend downloading the route data, as the network can be unreliable in rural areas. You won't get lost, as the path is marked, but you'll at least be sure to finish the game!

If this is your first time playing, you'll start with a somewhat challenging course. This means the puzzles are tricky and you'll have to use your brain, but it won't hinder your progress.


Parking and picnic table
Trailhead


Please note, there are 2 routes starting from the Carbonnières Towers: a difficult 9km route with significant elevation gain and a shorter, easier one: The secret of Carbonnières, take the latter with children!


A site in unspoiled nature

The Xaintrie region is characterized by its rugged landscapes, covered in trees and forests with a mysterious allure. It's a place we particularly love in the Corrèze. We also recommend visiting the Tours de Merle a little further afield, a co-seigneury nestled in nature, well-preserved and open to the public with a very engaging museum experience.


The Carbonnières towers
The Carbonnières towers
The Carbonnières towers



You will pass through the small village of Goulles before arriving at a parking area (everything is well signposted) which will lead you to the trails to the towers. Wear walking shoes, as the path is rocky and sometimes a bit steep, so you could slip. Walk a few hundred meters before reaching a hamlet and then descending into the forest towards the old abandoned village and the towers. Along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful scenery and a promontory.

The puzzles gave us a bit of trouble: don't hesitate to backtrack.


The Carbonnières towers
The Carbonnières towers



Goulles

Goulles
  • Towns & Villages
  • Goulles

Towns & Villages in Goulles

2,6 km

Carbonnières Towers

Carbonnières Towers
  • Castles in Corrèze
  • Goulles

Castles in Corrèze in Goulles

2,9 km

Les Tours de Carbonnières

Les Tours de Carbonnières
  • Nature Reserves / Parks
  • Goulles

Nature Reserves / Parks in Goulles

2,9 km


Once you reach the towers, an interpretive panel will tell you more about their history and the importance of their construction at the time. It's a peaceful place. Remember to bring a picnic ! Be careful with young children, as there are no facilities for visitors. It can be risky at times, as there are no guardrails near the rocky cliffs.

The return journey follows the same route; it's not a loop. Remember to bring water. In summer, the walk stays pleasantly cool thanks to the trees along the path.


The Carbonnières towers
Carbonnière Towers
The Carbonnières towers


We wish you a good treasure hunt in Goulles!


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