La chatre, Indre, Centre

A former Gallic or Roman camp (castra), and then probably the site of a feudal castle; the origins of the town are still much debated. By the 11th century the Lord of La Châtre is finally identified: Ebbes VI, youngest son of Raoul de Déols, Lord of Châteauroux. Cistercian monks settle along the river Indre and initiate economic development with the construction of mills. 13th to 15th century: the town becomes the property of the Chauvigny family who, in c.1424, have a seignorial castle built within the stout walls of the town. Only the keep remains today. The Charter of 1463 gives more freedom to the burghers. In the 15th century, at the end of the Hundred Years War, the town develops significantly. Situated between the estates of the King of France and former English provinces, it becomes a centre trade, facilitated by the presence of the court at Bourges. Beautiful mansions are built. Early 18th century: at the boundary of low and hugh salt tax zones, La Châtre becomes a garrison town and magistrates build private residences. 1788: the Council decides to tear down the remaining gates of the town, whose walls were already three quarters demolished. 19th century: prominent leather industry. Located in a cattle-breeding region watered by the river Indre, the town, by the Middle Ages, already possessed numerous tanneries, and a district is still so named today. Marked by the presence of George Sand the novelist, who used to come to La Châtre to meet her friends, even if she confessed to deploring the conformance of the town. In the sixties, La Châtre is transformed, as complete suburbs are established around the od town. Today, La Châtre is a dynamic sous-préfecture with more than 4700 inhabitants.

A pleasant commune located in the north of the Creuse département and bordering the Indre département, it is also situated in the "first foothills" of the Massif Central, offering a verdant, undulating, wooded landscape. The paths are still lined with "bouchers", which provide pleasant protection from the heat and inclement weather. However, all that remains are a few walnut trees, which seem to have given their name to the commune (Nouziers is derived from the Latin "nucarium" meaning walnut). Nouziers is a dynamic commune, with a lively community life and events that attract many visitors every year, such as the 24-hour Solex race on Pentecost, or the Christmas market held on the last Sunday before Christmas.

A pleasant commune located in the north of the Creuse département and bordering the Indre département, it is also situated in the "first foothills" of the Massif Central, offering a verdant, undulating, wooded landscape. The paths are still lined with "bouchures", which provide pleasant protection from the heat and inclement weather. However, all that remains are a few walnut trees, which seem to have given their name to the commune (Nouziers is derived from the Latin "nucarium" meaning walnut). Nouziers is a dynamic commune, with a lively community life and events that attract many visitors every year, such as the 24-hour Solex race on Pentecost and the Christmas market held on the last Sunday before Christmas.

The Temple forest has been inhabited since ancient times. The arrival of the Knights Templar, those soldier monks, provided us with the first written historical document. In the cartulary of Aubespierre Abbey, we find the phrase: "Domus Fratum de Templo la Forêt (1185)". The Knights Templar, established in 1185, had built their commandery and a chapel here. La Forêt du Temple enjoyed a period of prosperity at the time of its foundation. It was less so later, however, when in 1836 it was removed from the map of communes and annexed to the commune of Mortroux. It wasn't until 1883, thanks to the efforts of dedicated schoolteacher François Ravaud, that La Forêt du Temple regained its administrative identity.

The Temple forest has been inhabited since ancient times. The arrival of the Knights Templar, those soldier monks, provided us with the first written historical document. In the cartulary of Aubespierre Abbey, we find the phrase: "Domus Fratum de Templo la Forêt (1185)". The Knights Templar, established in 1185, had built their commandery and a chapel here. La Forêt du Temple enjoyed a period of prosperity at the time of its foundation. It was less so later, however, when in 1836 it was removed from the map of communes and annexed to the commune of Mortroux. It wasn't until 1883, thanks to the efforts of dedicated schoolteacher François Ravaud, that La Forêt du Temple regained its administrative identity.

Between meadows and woods, you can follow the paths of pilgrims on their way from Déols to the abbey of Prébenoît de Bétête, or of masons on their way to build the capital?s prestigious buildings. With less than 10% of the land ploughed, you'll discover water, stone and greenery, enough to satisfy your senses, your curiosity, your love of nature and your appetite for food.

This small rural commune is located in the north of the Creuse département, bordering the Indre. From Berry, you can discover the Marchois countryside and the foothills of the Massif Central. In 1789, the territory of Tercillat was split in two with the creation of the commune of Viviers, until 1833.

This small rural commune is located in the north of the Creuse département, bordering the Indre. From Berry, you can discover the Marchois countryside and the foothills of the Massif Central. In 1789, the territory of Tercillat was split in two with the creation of the commune of Viviers, until 1833.

Between meadows and woods, you can follow the paths of pilgrims on their way from Déols to the abbey of Prébenoît de Bétête, or of masons on their way to build the capital?s prestigious buildings. With less than 10% of the land ploughed, you'll discover water, stone and greenery, enough to satisfy your senses, your curiosity, your love of nature and your appetite for food.

Mortroux is a rural commune bordered by 6 communes: Lourdoueix-Saint-Pierre to the west, Moutier-Malcard to the east, La Forêt du Temple and Nouziers to the north, and Malval and Linard to the south. By ordinance of June 20, 1836, the commune of La Forêt du Temple was abolished and its territory merged with that of Mortroux; but in 1883, it was re-established as a commune. Today, the commune of Mortroux comprises a town and a dozen hamlets. It covers an area of 1,328 ha. On the commune's coat of arms, adopted in 2004, the gules and pots are a reminder that Mortroux was once a well-known Poitiers village. The ermine chief evokes the coat of arms of the Limousin region. The village has kept the memory of its artists alive, with the presence of fine pottery used as finials adorning several of its roofs

The entire property covers 3,500 m², comprising parkland, meadows and a courtyard. The gîte overlooks the courtyard and the small, little-used road that runs alongside the house. Guests have access to a private garden reserved for the Gîte, and can also use the courtyard and park of the large house. Both gardens offer superb views over the surrounding countryside.

Ien and Maurice warmly welcome you to their peaceful, character-filled home, where you'll feel right at home. 5 Gîtes de France bedrooms (on the first floor of the house) with private bathrooms, full of charm, taste and comfort. Living room, lounge/library, garden, courtyard and enclosed parking. A good base for exploring La Creuse and L'Indre. 5% discount on accommodation rates for stays of 3 nights or more. Free WIFI. Good cuisine using fresh produce from the garden. Theme breaks (hiking, biking/ mountain biking and golf). Garage for motorcycles and bicycles. Small family pet park.

Just 3 km from the village of Genouillac (with all amenities) and easily accessible via the D940, you'll love Maison de Francis, a vacation rental for 4 people. The entire plot along the D940 is enclosed. Partially shaded. Secure gate and private parking. River fishing, "La Petite Creuse" nearby: 1550m special trout course in 2nd category at Moulin de Freteix.

Come and enjoy a 100% cocooning stay in a beautiful country house! With its 4 large bedrooms (each with its private shower room) and its many living spaces. Les chambres de l'Abeille" is synonymous with space and freedom. Whether indoors or in the large, delicately flowered garden, you'll be able to share your time with family and friends in complete tranquillity. And why not treat yourself to a sauna session during your stay? A 15-minute drive will take you to the shops and services in Aigurande (12 km). Within a 35 km radius, follow in the footsteps of George Sand at Gargilesse, discover the Arboretum de la Sédelle or take the time for a gourmet and historical detour in the valley of the Impressionist painters, the chateau de Boussac and the marvellous Aubusson tapestries....

The La Roussille lake is a family-friendly destination. A hamlet of 8 waterside chalets, with supervised swimming and a variety of activities? for young and old alike, leisure and outdoor activities guarantee a successful vacation. On site: sandy beach with supervised swimming in July and August, children's playground, pumptrack and departure point for numerous hiking and mountain-biking trails. Pedalos. Leisure center: activities for children aged 4 to 12. Squat'Ados: entertainment for teenagers aged 11 to 17. Opposite the beach, a bar-restaurant with terrace awaits you in July and August. A few steps away, at the La Prugne lake, you can go fishing (handi-fishing pontoons). A fun trail lets you discover the flora and fauna. On both sites, you have access to shaded picnic areas

Belle Vue is ideally located 3km from Boussac, with all shops and services. Summer swimming pool in Soumans (9km) open in July and August. Special trout stream in 2nd category at BETETE (12Km) - Trout can be caught here from the 2nd Saturday in March to the 3rd Sunday in September inclusive. For heritage lovers, a visit to the Château is a must. Hiking from the gîte.

Gîte adjoining gîte 23G1400 (sleeps 11). 7 km from Bonnat (all shops). The atmosphere is colorful and the decor well thought-out. The wellness area can be used all year round, and is accessible from the living room.

Gîte adjoining gîte 23G1400 (sleeps 11). 7 km from Bonnat (all shops). The atmosphere is colorful and the decor well thought-out. The wellness area can be used all year round, and is accessible from the living room.

Gîte de bourg", but close to the rivers Petite Creuse and Grande Creuse, rich in bleak, gudgeon and trout, as well as the Sédelle with its 1st category trout stream. For hikers, discover the Impressionists of Fresselines, then follow Claude Monet's path along the Petite Creuse to Puy Guillon, where Maurice Rollinat once lived. Come and relax in our PARADISE! Practicalities: shops (bakery, mini-market, etc.) Small swimming area at Puy Guillon in the Petite Creuse (5 km). Supervised swimming in season at Lac de Chambon beach in Eguzon (15 km).

In 1838 the Town Hall was etablished in the choir of the Carmes Convent, built at the end of the 14th century to recognise the Camelite friars for their dedication during the plague which hit the town in 1348. Some remnants still remain : the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy (present foyer of the theatre) as well as the gothic arched door at the entrance of the Maurice Sand theatre. *Carmes - Carmelite friars

In 1798, outbuildings of the Carmes Convent were converted into an auditorium at the initiation of local amateur actors. Maurice Dupin, the father of George Sand, performed there. In 1809, because of disrepair, it was decided that the theatre would bemoved into the convent church, its present location. Its most glorious period was between 1830-1850 when George Sand attended numerous performances, and some of her own plays, such as Claudie, were staged. In 1904, the Comedie-Française came to perform François le Champi for the 100th anniversary of the writer's birth. In c.1935 the hall was first modernised following the development of the cinema and in 1994 it was fully restored to a manificent Italian theatre seating 200. It is named after the son of George Sand, Maurice, theatre producer and puppeteer.

This tall house, embellished with stone moulded windows, was the property of the Captain Louis d'Ars, master of arms of the renowned Knight Bayard whom he dubbed himself. He was also the owner o the Chateau d'Ars, two kilometres north of La Châtre. The house, purchassed in 1638 by boarders of the Carmes Convent, sheltered Ursuline nuns in 1855, Dominican Sisters in 1869, and subsequently it became the girls' college.

This town house was built by Bargat at the end of the 18th century for the Marquis Etienne Philippe de Villaines, leader of the King's bodyguard, army and camps marshal in 1790. Acquired by the Town Council in 1807, it housed the college of La Châtre until 1954. Since then it has become the local library with over 30,000 volumes and the George Sand's museum.

In 1877, in homage to George Sand (1804-1876), the Town Council decided to erect a statue in a public garden named after the writer. The statue was conceived in Carrara marble by Aimé Millet and, during a grand celebration on 10th August 1884, was unveiled in the presence of Ferdinand de Lesseps (creator of the Suez Canal who lived in the region), Maurice Sand (son of George Sand), Paul Meurice (friend of Victor Hugo and George Sand). In 1890, two sequoias were planted in her honour. Thus, the town paid tribute to the authoress who once said : I have described La Châtre, and have been critical because deep down I love it.

Formerly called Place du Pavé, this old small square is named after Laisnel de la Salle (1801-1871), deputy mayor of La Châtre, author of Beliefs and Legends in the centre of France, and a friend of George Sand. Observe the timbered house, an old residence of La Châtre, dating back to the 15th century. It was built by a rich family of merchants and displays splendid half-timbering and a magnificent ancient studded door with sculpted ogee. The red hue dates from its restoration in the 19th century. In her novel André, the heroine, a florist named Geneviève, lives in this red house. "Before leaving a little winding and deserted street, he showed her an old brick house, whose frames were coarsely sculpted in wood. An extended roof shaded the narrow windows."

From the 15th century this was the main square of the town, and some early mansions testify to this golden age which witnessed the birth of industrial and commercial development in La Châtre. The 15th century half-timbered house in the rue du Marché, became, by the 19th century, the residence of Sylvain Chicot, where George Sand used to buy candles, wax and tobacco. La maison pointue (sharp-pointed house), which also dates back to the 15th century, bestows a medieval character on the little street where it stands. Jules Sandeau (writer and lover of George Sand) lived on this square between 1818 and 1832 and his surname inspired her nom de plume.

The present church is located on an historic site in the heart of this once fortified city. The original was probably built in the 11th century. In 1152, a fire broke out and another church was erected, with a nave 30 metres in length. The bell tower was not added until the 14th century. Subsequent to a gift in 1895, it was reconstructed, but as the foundations had not been calculated, it collapsed in the following year, taking the nave with it. The inhabitants generously participated in the reconstruction of a new church which was consecrated on 16th of October 1904. A 15th pietà, the provenance of Carmes Convent, can be seen in the interior.

Parvis St Germain street.

The team and chef of La Table de Mon Grand Père welcome you to their new establishment. Everything you need for a gourmet break: Burger (with home-baked bread), Salads, Paninis, Pasta Box and much more! Rendez-vous : ?? Pont de Genouillac from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Friday. ?? Place du Champ de Foire in Bonnat from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday evenings ?? Mairie de Moutier-Malcard from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday evenings EVEN WEEKS ?? Château de Jouillat 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Wednesday evenings ODD WEEKS

Lionel offers you his 50 homemade pizzas with home-made dough prepared every day Fresh Produce, Homemade Pizza Dough, Artisanal Pizzas Think of the loyalty card 10 Pizzas bought, the 11th Free Appointment : ?? Châtelus-Malvaleix from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Wednesday evenings ?? Place de l'école des filles in Genouillac from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Friday evenings ?? Place de la promenade, Bonnat 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Saturday evenings ?? Saint Vaury on Mondays ?? La Brionne, Vareille garage ?? Montaigut station, place de l'église

Traditional cooking with fresh products. Menu of the day: 14,00 €

Situated at 1 kilometer from the village, at the heart of nature, near the river "The little Creuse" and in front of an anciant watermill. Traditional and fast food. Menus. Animations, concerts and thematics diners are often organized.

Traditional food

Lionel offers you his 50 homemade pizzas with home-made dough prepared every day Fresh Produce, Homemade Pizza Dough, Artisanal Pizzas Think of the loyalty card 10 Pizzas bought, the 11th Free Appointment : ?? Châtelus-Malvaleix from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Wednesday evenings ?? Place de l'école des filles in Genouillac from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Friday evenings ?? Place de la promenade, Bonnat 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Saturday evenings

The team and chef of La Table de Mon Grand Père welcome you to their new establishment. Everything you need for a gourmet break: Burger (with home-baked bread), Salads, Paninis, Pasta Box and much more! Rendez-vous : ?? Pont de Genouillac from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Friday. ?? Place du Champ de Foire in Bonnat from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday evenings ?? Mairie de Moutier-Malcard from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday evenings EVEN WEEKS ?? Château de Jouillat 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Wednesday evenings ODD WEEKS

Seasonal cuisine is the name of the game for chef Jean-Jacques Tulleau. You won't find strawberries on our menu in December! Local produce, partly form the restaurant's own garden.

Lionel offers you his 50 homemade pizzas with home-made dough prepared every day Fresh Produce, Homemade Pizza Dough, Artisanal Pizzas Think of the loyalty card 10 Pizzas bought, the 11th Free Appointment : ?? Châtelus-Malvaleix from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Wednesday evenings ?? Place de l'école des filles in Genouillac from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Friday evenings ?? Place de la promenade, Bonnat 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Saturday evenings ?? Saint Vaury on Mondays ?? La Brionne, Vareille garage ?? Montaigut station, place de l'église

Pizzas and drinks to be taken.

The entire property covers 3,500 m², comprising parkland, meadows and a courtyard. The gîte overlooks the courtyard and the small, little-used road that runs alongside the house. Guests have access to a private garden reserved for the Gîte, and can also use the courtyard and park of the large house. Both gardens offer superb views over the surrounding countryside.

Ien and Maurice warmly welcome you to their peaceful, character-filled home, where you'll feel right at home. 5 Gîtes de France bedrooms (on the first floor of the house) with private bathrooms, full of charm, taste and comfort. Living room, lounge/library, garden, courtyard and enclosed parking. A good base for exploring La Creuse and L'Indre. 5% discount on accommodation rates for stays of 3 nights or more. Free WIFI. Good cuisine using fresh produce from the garden. Theme breaks (hiking, biking/ mountain biking and golf). Garage for motorcycles and bicycles. Small family pet park.

This peaceful dwelling offers a relaxing stay for the whole family. It has 2 verandas, a fully equipped kitchen and a large garden. This is a country place, not a magazine flat. This place has 2 bedrooms: 1 with 2 double beds 1 with a single bed The accommodation is equipped with a sofa bed. You'll find a quiet, peaceful garden, surrounded by horses. Beds are made up on arrival, but we do not provide towels (or at extra cost)

Just 3 km from the village of Genouillac (with all amenities) and easily accessible via the D940, you'll love Maison de Francis, a vacation rental for 4 people. The entire plot along the D940 is enclosed. Partially shaded. Secure gate and private parking. River fishing, "La Petite Creuse" nearby: 1550m special trout course in 2nd category at Moulin de Freteix.

At the refuge 2 Chalets for 4 people 1 chalet for 5 people bathroom WC Kitchenette TV Wifi heating (At the refuge you'll also find a 5-bedroom establishment with bathroom and TV, a dining room, a fully-equipped kitchen and washing machine/dryer for family gatherings and friendships)

A completely renovated country house, this gîte is ideal for a rejuvenating stay with family or friends. It features a bright, spacious living room with kitchen, 2 bedrooms with views over the countryside and a bathroom. The terrace overlooks greenery, ideal for breakfast in the sun. You can discover the Aubusson Tapestry, a treasure of our heritage, thanks to Françoise, the owner and weaver, whose workshop is close to the gîte, and the mysterious Pierres Jaumâtres at Toulx Sainte-Croix, with its incredible panorama, the Berry region, the village of Sainte-Sévère sur Indre (where Jacques Tati filmed his famous "Jour de fête"), Nohant (where you can discover Gorge Sand's house), Bourges and its majestic cathedral, the Bourbonnais region and its Forêt de Tronçais.. and so much more!

The Duplex, recently completely renovated, is ideal for a couple but can also accommodate up to 4 people. On the ground floor is the dining room with sofa bed, bar and TV, the fully equipped kitchen with access to the terrace and garden with table, chairs, parasol and a good gas BBQ. The ground floor also contains a bathroom with shower, washbasin and washing machine, and a separate toilet with washbasin. On the second floor, a vast 40m2 bedroom/living room with TV, 2-seater sofas, 2 armchairs + poufs, a double bed (190x140) in a cocooning area, then the main king-size bed (200x150). Beds are equipped with comforters, bolsters and pillows, prepared for your comfort. Fiber-optic Wi-Fi available and included in all rooms. Televisions are smart TVs with TNT, Netflix and Youtube access.

4-star house in the countryside. Fully equipped kitchen, 6 bedrooms for 12 people. Courtyard and garden with swimming pool, children's playground, pool, barbecue and garden furniture.

You will find L'éléphant Heureux in the heart of a peaceful rural village, Bétête. In our pretty bourgeois house surrounded by two hectares of land, next to a pond, in which you can fish. We provide you with two spacious and comfortable guest rooms (non-smoking) as well as access to an enclosed garden with table, chairs, parasol and barbecue. The accommodation is located on the 2nd floor of our house and has two charming bedrooms and a living room for 4 people with minibar and coffee corner. Each bedroom is equipped with a double bed. The bathroom is very spacious and has a sink, shower, corner bath and toilet (hairdryer available). Wifi available. Breakfast prepared by us will be served on your floor.