Property & Lifestyle in Corrèze (19)

A Quiet Corner of Rural France with Space, Character & Unmatched Affordability

Corrèze has become one of the most quietly appealing places in France for people seeking a gentler pace of life. With its mixture of dramatic gorges, rolling green pastures, medieval towns, and one of the strongest senses of community you’ll find anywhere in rural France, the department offers a lifestyle that is both peaceful and deeply rooted in tradition.

It also remains one of the most affordable regions in southwest France, yet without sacrificing beauty, authenticity or access to transport links. For many expats—especially those relocating from the UK, Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany—Corrèze offers the best of both worlds: the Dordogne’s charm but without the Dordogne’s prices.

The Corrèze Lifestyle

Nature, simplicity, village life – and all the space you could wish for

Living in Corrèze means waking up to quiet roads, birdsong, forest trails, and landscapes that change dramatically from one part of the department to another.

Outdoor Living

Corrèze is perfect for anyone who enjoys an active, nature-driven lifestyle.

• Hiking across the Plateau de Millevaches, one of France’s least populated natural parks

• Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Dordogne River

• Cycling through rolling farmland

• Swimming in clear lakes around Treignac or Seilhac

• Fishing in pristine rivers and streams

• Horse riding on endless bridle paths

The natural environment feels unspoilt—wildflowers, wildlife, star-filled skies, and quiet forests are part of daily life.

Communities That Welcome You In

Small villages are very much alive here. Weekly markets, village fêtes, local music events, and seasonal gatherings create a warm and inviting social atmosphere where newcomers are quickly recognised and welcomed.

Food & Produce

Corrèze is known for:

• Apples from its many orchards

• Chestnuts and walnuts

• Charcuterie and Limousin meat products

• Goat’s and sheep’s cheeses

• Local cider and small regional wines

• Beautifully made rustic breads and pastries

Brive-la-Gaillarde’s famous Saturday market is one of the best in the region.

Towns & Villages to Know

Brive-la-Gaillarde

The department’s most vibrant town and a transport hub. Full of cafés, restaurants, boutiques, concerts, rugby, and a renowned food culture. Excellent for year-round living.

Tulle

The administrative capital, built across seven valleys. Full of winding medieval lanes, riverside views, craft workshops and a peaceful, traditional atmosphere.

Uzerche

Often described as the Pearl of the Limousin, with turreted houses, a beautiful river bend, and one of the most picturesque old quarters in the region.

Argentat-sur-Dordogne

Timbered houses line the riverfront, creating an exquisite riverside village perfect for summer living and watersports.

Treignac

A medieval village surrounded by lakes, waterfalls and forests — excellent for outdoor lovers, walkers and those seeking solitude.

Collonges-la-Rouge

One of France’s most famous “red stone” villages — stunning, charming, and steeped in history.

Property in Corrèze

Character Homes, Stone Villages & Exceptional Value

Corrèze offers some of the best-value traditional properties in southwest France. If you love granite cottages, exposed beams, open fireplaces, big gardens and peaceful settings, Corrèze will feel like paradise.

Typical Property Types

• Stone farmhouses with barns and land

• Barns for renovation—often affordable and structurally strong

• Village houses close to cafés, boulangeries and markets

• Woodland retreats, ideal for privacy and space

• Riverside homes in Argentat or along the Dordogne

• Country estates with outbuildings, ideal for gîtes or small tourism projects

Typical Price Guide (2024–2025)

These are realistic averages:

Property Type	Typical Price
Small village house	€70,000 – €130,000
Stone farmhouse with land	€150,000 – €280,000
Barn for renovation	€20,000 – €60,000
Renovated character home	€250,000 – €400,000
Large estate / gîte complex	€400,000 – €900,000+

Prices rise slightly around Brive and the Dordogne Valley, but remain significantly cheaper than neighbouring Dordogne or Lot.

Why Property Is So Attractive Here

• Homes retain traditional charm

• Plenty of large plots and privacy

• Many properties include barns, outbuildings, wells, paddocks

• Lower competition than other expat-heavy areas

• Excellent potential for renovation projects

• Very low population density

This makes Corrèze perfect for people seeking peace, space, or a lifestyle project such as small farming, gîtes, B&Bs, or artisan workshops.

Living in Corrèze as an Expat

Who Moves Here?

You’ll find a growing but gentle international community of:

• Retirees

• Remote workers

• Families seeking nature and safety

• Renovators and lifestyle movers

• People leaving Dordogne or Lot for more peace and better prices

Transport & Connectivity

• Brive Airport with flights to UK, Paris, and seasonal routes

• A20 & A89 autoroutes linking Corrèze to Paris, Toulouse, Lyon and Bordeaux

• TGV access via Brive or nearby Limoges

• Good broadband in most towns, fibre rolling out steadily

Everyday Life

Expect:

• Weekly markets in nearly every town

• Quiet roads and easy parking

• Medical centres and good local healthcare

• Strong artisan and maker culture

• Local festivals, food fairs, music evenings, and seasonal events

• A genuine sense of calm

This is a department where you can live without rush, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a lifestyle many people dream about but rarely achieve.

Is Corrèze Right for You?

Corrèze is ideal if you want:

✔ A peaceful rural life

✔ Character stone homes at affordable prices

✔ Nature on your doorstep

✔ A friendly, welcoming population

✔ Lower living costs

✔ Easy access to the Dordogne without the tourist crowds

✔ A place to build a gîte, smallholding or creative project

It’s less ideal if you need:

✘ Major city nightlife

✘ International schools on your doorstep

✘ Large commercial centres (although Brive offers good shopping)

Final Thoughts

Corrèze is a department that quietly captures the heart.It doesn’t shout for attention—but rewards those who venture here with nature, space, history, and a lifestyle rich in authenticity. Whether you want a charming second home, a full relocation, or a renovation adventure, Corrèze offers exceptional opportunities and a wonderfully gentle way of life.