The impressive Towers of Merle, in Saint-Geniez-ô-Merle

Go and discover the authentic medieval city in Corrèze, an exceptional panorama awaits you! 

Our team proposes you to discover today Les Tours de Merle, an ecological paradise. French medieval castrum, this classified monument is composed of seven towers. 

It represents one of the most emblematic sites of the Xaintrie, a beautiful preserved territory between the Cantal Mountains and the Dordogne Valley. 

Let's discover together the things you must see during your visit to Les Tours de Merle, a medieval city full of history, natural treasures and incredible landscapes... 

Natural treasures 

During your visit to the Towers of Merle, you will have the opportunity to admire different species such as chiropterans, different kinds of birds of prey or lichens. 

 

Chiropterans, or bats

These are beings that occupy the Blackbird Towers. We find the Great Rhinolophus, the Little Rhinolophus, the Great Murin as well as the Swallow-eared Murin. 

These animal species are one of the main challenges of the site regarding the preservation of natural heritage. 

 

Birds of prey flying over the Merle Towers

Your visit will also allow you to meet different species of birds of prey. They fly around the Merle Towers. There are 14 species, including the Royal Milan but also the Peregrine Falcon, the Variable Hawk, the Barn Owl... 

 

Lichens, indicators of air quality

It is through the woods all along the Maronne that you can observe many lichens. These are species that are sensitive and indicate a good air quality of its environment. 

 

The river Maronne, calm and tranquility

This river constitutes a major element of the site, because it contributes to make the Towers of Merle, a natural fortress. 

You can therefore organize your visit with the help of the Maronne River, which will take you to the discovery of the Maronne Valley, its dragonflies and otters, the ancient bridge or the ruins of the mill, which in the past was used to grind rye and crush nuts. 

 

The farm and the garden 

The Towers of Merle house a farm and its garden, built at the foot of the rock of Merle. This farm plunges you into the medieval universe of the peasants of the XIVth century. 

The farm was presented on two levels, one level which was used as a habitat and a granary, but also another level used for animals and tools. 

The garden will take you in a whirlwind of scents highlighting the culinary, medicinal and textile flora. You will also find in the park many varieties of fruit trees, such as apple trees, walnut trees, hazelnut trees but also vines.   

 

The welcome village

It is in the Welcome Village that you can appreciate the architecture of the charming old houses. This village offers an exceptional view of Les Tours de Merle... 
You will discover there the House of Madège, the House Esturgie but also the Shop where you will be able to find souvenirs, to taste ice creams or to consume cold drinks. 

 

The advice of the team : 

• Bring good walking shoes that hold the rocks, because you will have to climb up and down many times. 
• A good picnic is also necessary if you want to bring a sufficient quantity of water. 

 

Want to organize a stay in the Cantal? 

Our charming hotel La Thomasse in Aurillac, located about 40 minutes by car from Les Tours de Merle, offers comfortable rooms for 1 to 3 people for your stays with family or friends.