Limousin, a historic leather center
The quality of the waters of the Vienne River and the pastures that favored the rearing of cows, lambs and kids have sustained a leather and hide industry in the region since the 11th century. In Saint-Junien, traditional tanners have developed a unique know-how that has been perpetuated over time. It is in the city's leather goods and glove-making workshops that the most beautiful pieces are made for the great French luxury goods manufacturers such as Hermès, Dior and Chanel. During your visit to the Daguet or Agnelle workshop boutiques, don't miss the opportunity to treat yourself to a belt or a pair of gloves made in France. In Limoges, the J.M. Weston factory has been making shoes according to traditional shoemaking know-how since 1891. Each handcrafted pair takes two months to produce, from selecting and cutting the leather, stitching the upper, and cutting the sole, to their assembly and hand finishing. Although visits to the factory are only available to a few privileged customers, you can still take advantage of your stay to purchase one of the iconic models of the brand, such as their famous moccasin, or leather goods from older collections at preferential prices.