If you’re looking for an adventure in the heart of nature, you might want to check out Des Tourbieres de Vendoire. Also known as The Boglands of Vendoire, and despite its unappealing name, this place is a real gem. Located at the foot of the Lizonne Valley, it boasts a variety of peat bogs. They are of international interest and are home to diverse flora and fauna.
There are many bogs to explore, all connected by bridges and viewing posts. Each bog has an informative post that explains how the different layers have formed over time within the bog. It also shows the vast amounts of plants, insects, and birds. If you’re lucky, you may see a Copyu. It looks like a cross between a beaver, rat, and otter.
The bogs have a history that spans thousands of years. When you venture into the woodland, you’ll notice the vegetation, and wood make a soft carpet to walk on. The visitor centre, Maison des Tourbières, offers interactive workshops. You can learn about the natural history as well as the human activities that have taken place in the area.
As you explore the nature reserve, you are greeted by the joyful sounds of different species of birds, butterflies, dragonflies and frogs croaking. It’s like a choir in full flow! If you’re looking for more activities, the site offers fishing, thematic workshops, and guided tours by appointment.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a new adventure, Des Tourbieres de Vendoire is definitely worth a visit. Don’t let the name fool you; this place is truly beautiful!
Vendoire
Vendoire, located in Perigord Vert, is part of the Périgord Riberacois community of communes. It is located on the edge of the Dordogne, bordering the southern Charente. Bordered by the Lizonne River, the commune has been identified as a protected area in the INPN, and its valley is part of the Natura 2000 network. The settlement pattern is highly dispersed, comprising the village of Vendoire, numerous hamlets and farms, and various “lieux-dits” scattered across the hillsides.
Just up the road from Tourbierres is a campsite that serves drinks, ice creams and has a maize maze.
