Discover Chavanat, Creuse, Limousin and its wonders

Let yourself be surprised by the natural site of the Gour de Vaux, this granite chaos crossed by the Thaurion, a small river that rises on the Plateau de Millevaches and flows through rugged terrain. But before that, you'll discover exceptional panoramic views of the authentic, unspoilt Creus countryside, where the imprint of the Creus stonemasons punctuates your walk. Start: cross the hamlet of La Chaise and its stone bridge and take the track to the right, 11 km, 3h, yellow markings.

Discover Puy Beaumont, which offers a unique panoramic view of the peaty valleys and wooded puys, another area covered with heather moors.From the Beauvais reception area, take the earth path straight down between the meadows.Take the path on the right between the dry stone walls. Cross the Beauvais stream on a plank bridge, then cross the bog and forest plots to point 2.Take the path opposite, still between the dry stone walls, to the top of Puy Beaumont. Take some the time to admire the 300° landscape and enjoy a rest on the earth bench. Begin the descent by walking around a number of bends, through leafy plots, passing in front of an old shepherd's hut.At the bottom of the slope, turn left and walk along the edge of the Mazure peat bog to point 4. (this section is in common with the discovery trail of the moors and peat bogs of Mazure, so you could extend your route).At the crossroads, go straight ahead until you reach point 5.Turn left into the forest plantation to reach the boardwalks. Walk through them to the stream, the Beauvais, then cross the footbridge to reach an old pond dyke. Below, explore the ruins of the old Beauvais mill, then take the path on the left that leads to point 6.Continue straight ahead to return to the reception area.

Departing from the Martinèche, Martin Nadaud invites you to discover the paths of his childhood to discover the built and natural heritage of Soubrebost.From the Martinèche car park, take the road around the Martin Nadaud house and leave the village.At the crossroads, head in the direction of Vidaillat and continue on the RD34a.Leave the road to take the first track on the right and then continue on the path that branches off to the right. After having skirted the Puy Maria, arrive at the top of a small hill.Take the path that climbs on the right to discover the stone with nine steps (round trip).Join the road to Perseix. At the first house, take the sunken path on the right for 200 m; turn left to go up the Puy de Soubrebost and visit the curious Duveix stone.Climb to the top of the plot to reach the ridge path, it leads to the Croix de Courson viewpoint on a small way. Go and return on the right just before reaching the road.Cross the road to observe the quarryman's hut, it's an excellent opportunity to take a break! Go through the car park and take the road in the direction of the village of Soubrebost (passing in front of the cemetery where Martin Nadaud is buried).In the centre of the village, visit the church on the left and enjoy the beautiful stones of the houses. At the crossroads, turn right towards Bourganeuf.A few metres after the town hall, take the grassy path on the right and then turn left onto the path leading to Beaumartys.Go past a wayside cross, continue straight ahead, then join a small road. Follow it on the right to Beaumartys. Go through the village and continue straight on, on the path that passes between two barns.Continue through alternating meadows and woodlands and observe the landscape... many viewpoints follow one another.At the crossroads at the bottom of the Puy de la Martinèche, take the path on the right and continue down to the village of Martinèche.

Come and discover the secrets of the legendary Devil's Rock and the unspoilt nature of the Thaurion; flowing and cascading here into a huge "gully".From the car park, go towards the road by taking the track leading to the car park. Cross it and take the small staircase that leads down the slope.Turn left and follow the course of the Thaurion. After crossing the damp ground, the path climbs upwards, turning to the left.At the top, turn right, leave the stone staircase (with metal railings) that goes down to the left. Take care, awkward passage. Slip straight between the rocks to go down to the viewpoint overlooking the valley (secured by a guardrail). Once you have enjoyed the panorama, turn around, go up to the top of the staircase you left previously and take it.At the bottom of the stairs, on the left, continue following the river and, after trying to see the hidden waterfall, go up to the left to observe a huge rocky outcrop, then return to the river.Go along the riverbank to a waterfall; the path goes up on the left to bypass a rocky outcrop, then goes down again (watch out for slips).Slip between the rocks and follow the bank until the next waterfall.Go down the metal staircase and take the footbridge. Take a break before leaving the river and take the wide path that climbs (very steep) to the road.Cross the road at the small stone staircase in the embankment opposite. Climb these few steps and then turn right diagonally to cross the abandoned road and head towards the road opposite.Take the path that runs along the road in the woods until you reach the top of a wooden staircase.The tarmac track climbs on the left and thus begins the return to the car park. Follow this wide track that crosses meadows and then enters a large coniferous forest.Continue straight on this track through the communal forest until you reach the foot of the Devil's Rock and the car park.

Come and explore a large peat bog classified as a Natura 2000 site, rich in a remarkable heritage that is preserved.From the car park, head towards the footbridge over the stream, pass the barrier and follow the wide track to the next intersection.Turn right, go through the woods up to a viewpoint with a bench. Continue a little in the woods, then go down towards the river to the ruins of a mill.Follow the old headrace to the footbridges that allow the stream to be crossed.Take the duckboards and continue straight on the path for a good distance.At the intersection, take the left-hand path, which then branches off to the left at a footbridge and passes over the dike of an old pond.Cross the river again and remember to close the gate. Climb the steep path that goes off to the right to reach a panoramic view.Descend onto the heath to a turtle-shaped rocky outcrop.Just past this rock, there are two options. The one presented here is the option of the large loop (another sheet presents a smaller loop: "Discovery trail of the moors and peat bogs of Mazure n°22: Small loop"). Take the path that goes straight down and then goes up towards the rocky outcrop that offers a beautiful view.Go down to the bottom of the valley. Once you reach the peat bog, the path branches off to the right. The landscaping allows you to cross the wettest areas and reach a stone bridge (known as a "plank bridge").Cross the river, turn left to reach a coniferous forest.Continue straight through this forest for a long distance until you reach the intersection of four paths.Turn left, go through the woods and then continue alongside the peat bog on a path lined with old low walls.At the intersection with another trail, continue straight ahead until you reach some duckboards, then a small stone bridge that allows you to cross the river again.Just after a small round trip to the right you can explore the remains of mills. Turn left, continue straight on a path that runs along the edge of the peat bog near the heather moors.A large duckboard allows you to cross a very wet area (caution). The path continues straight ahead on the edge and then branches off to the right into a shrubby area and climbs up into a fenced meadow.A fenced corridor makes it possible to cross this meadow in complete safety (beware, however, of apiary). At the end of the meadow, take the path opposite (slightly to the left) in a coniferous forest.The path then continues through a leafy forest, branching off to the right to an old fishery.Continue on the right, following the watercourse, until the next intersection with a wide path.Take this path on the left, go on alongside the fenced pasture and continue straight on the path (taken on the outward journey) to return to the car park.

Start / Finish : Parking de la Rigole du Diable, D3, 23460 LE MONTEIL AU VICOMTE Communes crossed : Le Monteil au Vicomte, Royère de Vassivière

The trail passes through a variety of ecological settings, guaranteeing a rich biodiversity. In the past, moors and peat bogs were used for a variety of purposes; today, it is important to enhance the value of these landscapes, which have been forgotten for too long? This site combines an exceptional natural heritage with a vernacular heritage that bears witness to the evolution of local life.

The trail passes through a variety of ecological settings, guaranteeing a rich biodiversity. In the past, moors and peat bogs were used for a variety of purposes; today, it is important to enhance the value of these landscapes, which have been forgotten for too long? This site combines an exceptional natural heritage with a vernacular heritage that bears witness to the evolution of local life.

On the Chateau de Mémanat estate, slightly removed from the rest of the property, stay in this luxurious treehouse. Hand-built by Andy and Natalie, after many years of dedication and a few splinters, this perched treehouse rises 3 meters high and features a large terrace overlooking horse fields, a private wood-fired spa and a cozy hidden mezzanine. The open double-height interior includes a huge handmade king-size bed and adorable bunk beds for the kids if you decide to bring them along! You won't skimp on luxury: the luxurious bathroom is equipped with a massive shower and double sink. There's also a real little kitchen for all your culinary needs.

The 4-person gîte is located on the outskirts of Saint Georges la Pouge (grocery store, bakery, pharmacy), halfway between Guéret and Aubusson and 30 km from Lac de Vassivière. Detached 80 m2 house set in 850 m2 enclosed grounds. Ground floor: large living room of 42 m2 with fitted kitchen with dining area and sitting area with pellet stove. Upstairs, two bedrooms, each with a 140cm double bed. En-suite bathroom with bath and separate toilet Bed linen and towels provided. Beds made up on arrival. No smoking. Minimum stay 3 nights, except July and August. July and August weekly rentals

La Maison Courbarien is located in Saint-Georges La Pouge, halfway between GUERET and AUBUSSON . La Maison Courbarien is listed in the Michelin Green Guide 2023 and in the Guide du Rou Numerous hiking trails nearby. Maison Courbarien offers 4 fully renovated bedrooms with private bathrooms: Two rooms with double beds for 2 people, a family room with double bed for 2 people and sofa bed, and a room with 2 single beds for 2 people. Upon reservation, Marc and Patricia will be happy to serve you their table d'hôtes and prepare a packed lunch for you. Everything is homemade with local produce. Bocce ball games, children's playhouse, swing sets and various games in a completely secure area for the little ones. Bikes for hire with child seats for exploring the surrounding area.

This is one of two self-contained gîtes that have been built in an adjoining barn to the side of the main residence. This spacious gîte is on the second floor, accessed via a set of external wooden steps leading to a wooden balcony containing a garden table and chairs and a private entrance. The gite offers a large living/dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, two spacious bedrooms, one with a king-size bed, the other has two single beds. There's a modern bathroom with walk-in shower, WC, washbasin and heated towel rail. You can enjoy al fresco dining on the private balcony, with views over the lawn and forest of Chez Jallot, as well as the surrounding countryside. Guests have full access to the gardens and facilities such as the sunken courtyard, at exp

Welcome to Chez Jallot, a magnificent 19th-century manor house nestled in the beautiful Creuse region, and its luxury chambres d'hôtes, offering table d'hôtes and the chance for guests to relax in these magnificent surroundings. 4 rooms can accommodate up to 10 people. - The Hummingbird suite for 2 people - The spacious Vassivière family suite sleeps 4 (2 bedrooms) - The Bonnet-blanc room for 2 people, with historic furnishings dating back to the Manoir's original residents, the Jallot family. - The Forêt room for 2 people. Private bathroom. Baby equipment available on request and complimentary toiletries in every bathroom. A hearty continental breakfast is served in the dining room. Relaxation area on the ground floor.

La Maison du Tilleul is a spacious, pleasant and colorful family home. It is attached to a main residence, with no facing building. On the ground floor you'll find : - open-plan kitchen - a living/dining room. The wood-burning stove decorates this small sitting area, perfect for socializing and playing games at the end of the day. - Bathroom with toilet and washbasin, washing machine. First floor: - CH1 with 1 double bed and dressing room - CH2 with 1 double bed and dressing room - CH3 with 2 single beds and dressing room. - Large bathroom with shower and bathtub, WC. Partially enclosed grounds of over 1000 m². Private courtyard with parking spaces. Shaded area. Barbecue. Table tennis. Housekeeping package. Fuel heating package. Wood (1/5 stere) included. For additional wood, a supplement will be requested. The house is located only 10 km from Aubusson, the tapestry ca

Annick and Jean-René welcome you to their 17th-century house in the Creuse region of France, which has been carefully renovated for a peaceful vacation, allowing you to recharge your batteries in calm and serenity. The room has been designed with healthy materials: wood, earth/lime plaster, cellulose wadding insulation, etc. This large 36m² room features a relaxation area, an open-plan bathroom with sink, shower and toilet. The warmth of the larch parquet flooring, stonework and exposed beams lend it a serene charm. 2 velux windows, from which a landscape of forests and green meadows can be discovered, flood it with light. The vegetarian and organic breakfast can be adapted to suit your tastes. Annick and Jean-René offer organic, vegetarian and vegan meals, prepared with care and love. Annick offers massages and relaxation sessions.

Maison 3 is a beautifully renovated barn in the heart of the Limousin countryside. Part of a larger stone farmhouse, the property can accommodate up to 5 people. A large private area is located at the rear of the house, with a zen-like garden inviting you to relax and unwind. The house comprises a living room with a fully-equipped kitchen opening onto the lounge-dining area. The lounge area features 2 sofas, one of which can be converted into a single bed. A wood-burning stove provides heating whenever the weather warms up. Upstairs, you'll find : - bathroom with bath and WC - a bedroom with 2 double beds, with the option of adding screens for added privacy. This gite is ideal for stargazing, as there's no light pollution!

Le Moulin, which sleeps 10 people, is just a few steps from the 13-hectare pond on the property, which belongs to the French Fishing Federation. On the first floor, you'll find - fully-equipped kitchen opening onto a large, bright and functional living room. - Separate living room with TV and fireplace (wood included). - Bathroom and separate WC. First floor : - bedroom with 3 single beds (90*200) and private shower room. - bedroom with 2 beds 90*200 - bedroom with 2 beds 90*200 - a bedroom with 3 beds 90*200 4 beds can be twinned. - Separate shower room and WC. Unenclosed grounds. Private parking. Terrace with garden furniture, barbecue and 4 deckchairs. Laundry room with washing machine-dryer, checkroom, library, baby equipment. Fishing room: equipment storage (sink and fridge). Bed linen included in the price.

Stone house located in a small hamlet in Royère de Vassivière.

Goat breeding, cheese processing, goat meat valorization, soap production. Sales of cheese and terrine at the farm every day except Sunday from March to November.

Pierre d?Aubusson, Grand Master of the Knights Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem, was born in 1423 at Le Monteil-au-Vicomte. Today, the crystallized remains of his castle are freely accessible to the public. Explanatory panels have been installed to help visitors identify and locate the different parts of the castle. Open all year round.

Several picnic tables set up at the foot of the Château de Pierre d'Aubusson ruins. An ideal spot for a quiet picnic Access on foot only.

The church of Saint-Sulpice de Banize dates back to the end of the 13th century. With its simple rectangular plan, it has changed little over time. The interior walls contain a veritable treasure trove, which was discovered and restored in 2021. The earliest decoration, from the 15th century, imitates a faux stonework, red on a white background. A few years later, a second decoration appears to have been painted directly onto the first. It depicts a variety of scenes, mainly from the New Testament, with the Virgin Mary and the Passion of Christ as the main themes. The Saints Protectors and Apostles also feature prominently in this wall decoration. What a fine example of late medieval painting! Church open weekends in June and September, and daily in July and August, from 2pm to 6pm. Guided tours by prior arrangement.

Organic farm. We offer our beef and pork farm products for direct sale by appointment (at the farm, at markets in Pontarion, Eymoutiers, Guéret, etc., or for delivery in the region). Farming is also an educational tool for the VASI jeunes association (Valorisation appui aux initiatives de jeunes), which runs a youth center in the Belleville forest in the commune of Vidaillat. Our farm is in the hamlet of Le Puy, on the right as you leave Vidaillat towards Le Monteil au Vicomte (on the D45). We're 15km from Pontarion, 30km from Guèret and 25km from Aubusson. We're on the edge of the Millevaches plateau, at an altitude of 600m.

Several picnic tables overlooking a meadow. An ideal spot for a quiet picnic. Petanque court and children's play area. Garbage garbage cans and parking on site.

Handmade jams, jellies, sweet preparations & chutneys in small quantities in Creuse, France We process the fruit we grow or pick in St Georges la Pouge & the surrounding gardens, depending on the season. Fruits are processed immediately after picking to preserve their flavor. We don't use industrial pectin for our jams. We make it from our own apples. Small quantities are cooked in copper basins. Many of our jams are double-cooked. Jars are filled by hand. Only the oranges come from Spain & the apricots from Mont Ventoux. The vegetables for our chutneys are grown in our own field by the market gardeners of Donzeil & Banize. Our small-scale production respects biodiversity. No pesticides or chemical fertilizers are used.

Farm rearing Salers cows, a hardy breed fattened 100% on grass and legumes, on natural meadows. Calves raised without supplements. Beef and veal production, parcels on request from 2kg. Beef and lamb charcuterie.

Sport fishing with ultra light tackle, fly fishing (beginners and advanced), predator fishing with lures from the shore or float tubes...

Direct sales of cow's milk cheese. Present at the Donzeil market on Tuesday evenings, Wednesday mornings in Bourganeuf, Friday mornings in Felletin. And Saturday mornings in Guéret.

We like to offer a pleasant environment for locals and tourists to have a drink inside or outside. We are a tea room & small café with terrace. We offer snacks, coffee, tea, soda, a glass of wine or beer.

In a friendly atmosphere, the restaurant offers regional and traditional menus. Outdoor terrace.

Pizza Pop is coming! ? Hey pizza lovers! The new Pizza Pop food truck is coming to the Vassivière area! To order, call 06 41 93 62 96 from 4.30pm To be found at : Saint Martin Château: Tuesdays July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Tuesdays August 6, 13, 20 and 27 Royère de Vassivière: Thursdays July 4 and 18, August 1, 15 and 29 Le Monteil au Vicomte: Fridays, July 5 and 19; Fridays, August 2, 16 and 30 Saint Hilaire Château: Fridays July 12 and 26, August 9 and 23 Bourganeuf: Saturday July 27 and Saturday August 31

The young chef, Timothy Henoque, offers fresh, seasonal cuisine, prepared like a small bistro, with beautiful, colorful plates to make your mouth water and awaken your taste buds. The menu is renewed

Right in the middle of the kitchen garden, under a welcoming terrace, come and enjoy local meats and garden vegetables. Simple cuisine in a convivial setting. In the afternoon, let yourself be tempted by home-made ice creams or a stroll around the vegetable garden. Open every Friday and the first 2 Saturdays of each month. Plants for sale on site from May to the end of June.

Housed in the former schoolhouse of this small hamlet of granite houses, the restaurant offers a menu of traditional dishes and local specialties. Some specialties must be ordered 48 hours in advance, so please contact the chef.

New! La rencontre, a four-in-one venue! Bar, restaurant, grocery store and thrift shop! Located between Bourganeuf and Lac de Vassivière, it's the place for a refreshing, gourmet or shopping break! You can also enjoy an artisanal ice cream, a cocktail or take advantage of the tea room! Traditional homemade cuisine. Takeaway meals. Reservations recommended. Open Sunday evenings by reservation only, for more than 6 people.

What a pleasure to meet up in this beautiful stone room or on the terrace after discovering the village of Masgot. You can relax, quench your thirst (hot or cold drinks), eat an ice-cream or a waffle, and even sample the delicious local produce (charcuterie, cheese) and regional dishes, also available in the store.

Homemade traditional Limousin specialties

La Guinguette welcomes you to the shores of Lake Mamangeas, with its bar and aperitif platters.

In a large stone house with its own entrance, Natacha welcomes you to the heart of the Limousin countryside, on 12 hectares of land with the Thaurion river bordering our meadows, ideal for fishing enthusiasts... A little further on, you'll find a small stream with a waterfall for a romantic stroll. The chambre d'hôte, as its name suggests, is pink, entirely new, with a 160/200 cm bed and quality bedding, free wifi, TV, underfloor heating and bathroom with large shower. A coffeemaker and kettle are available in the room. Breakfast can be served in your room...or in the beautiful reception room with its panoramic view of the countryside and woods .... Breakfast is made with love and homemade products. 80? per night for 2 people

In a large stone house with its own entrance, Natacha welcomes you to the heart of the Limousin countryside, on 12 hectares of land with the Thaurion river bordering our meadows, ideal for fishing enthusiasts... A little further on, enjoy a superb little stream with a waterfall for a romantic stroll. Natacha welcomes you in a comfortable 25m² studio with a lovely cocooning kitchenette, large 160x200 bed with quality bedding. Free WiFi, TV, underfloor heating, washing machine. Beautiful terrace overlooking the orchard. Beds made on arrival and towels provided. 320? per week for 2 people.

On the estate of Château de Memanat, slightly removed from the rest of the property, stay in this luxurious treehouse overlooking the Thaurion valley, which you can enjoy from your jacuzzi! For couples or families, up to 4 people (2 adults and 2 children), with 2 bedrooms, a bathroom and all the comforts of home. This turret cabin is 4 meters high, with a large outdoor terrace and underground Jacuzzi. A private garden lets you enjoy the surrounding calm. The living room is very comfortable, with its sofa and armchairs... The kitchen is fully equipped. The bathroom is modern, with a walk-in shower and double washbasin. The master bedroom, with its canopied 160cm bed, opens onto the terrace. The children's bedroom, accessed via a miller's ladder, is located in the turret.

On the Chateau de Mémanat estate, slightly removed from the rest of the property, stay in this luxurious treehouse. Hand-built by Andy and Natalie, after many years of dedication and a few splinters, this perched treehouse rises 3 meters high and features a large terrace overlooking horse fields, a private wood-fired spa and a cozy hidden mezzanine. The open double-height interior includes a huge handmade king-size bed and adorable bunk beds for the kids if you decide to bring them along! You won't skimp on luxury: the luxurious bathroom is equipped with a massive shower and double sink. There's also a real little kitchen for all your culinary needs.

Completely renovated detached house, 100 m2, sleeps 6, located in a hamlet in the Creuse countryside. For anglers, a private 1 ha pond, belonging to the owners, is nearby (approx. 200 m) (Fish present: roach, rotengles, carp, perch, pike-perch and pike). Landscaped area around the pond: table, benches, portico, sun loungers... Ground floor: kitchen opening onto dining room (MO, LV, TV, TNT, stove), living room (TV, DVD, hifi), separate WC, laundry room (LL, washbasin) with WC and shower cubicle. 1st floor: pink bedroom (1 bed 140), violet bedroom (1 bed 140), green bedroom (2 beds 90). Bathroom + WC. Beds made up on arrival. Non-smoking rental. Baby equipment on request (free). Private parking and garage. Oil-fired central heating.

In a small village in the Creuse region, you can breathe in the peace and quiet of the countryside, with an old Prussian cannon sleeping in the square. 6 bedrooms, including 4 on the second floor and 2 "dormitories" on the second floor, for a total capacity of 26 beds. Fitted kitchen, recreation room, shared sanitary facilities, ornamental garden, horse pasture. Parking available for guests. Pets not allowed. Overnight stay 15? per person. Possibility of renting the entire inn for 300? per night. Sheet hire: 2.50? Disabled access with assistance (sofa bed in living room). Free WiFi in common room.

The 4-person gîte is located on the outskirts of Saint Georges la Pouge (grocery store, bakery, pharmacy), halfway between Guéret and Aubusson and 30 km from Lac de Vassivière. Detached 80 m2 house set in 850 m2 enclosed grounds. Ground floor: large living room of 42 m2 with fitted kitchen with dining area and sitting area with pellet stove. Upstairs, two bedrooms, each with a 140cm double bed. En-suite bathroom with bath and separate toilet Bed linen and towels provided. Beds made up on arrival. No smoking. Minimum stay 3 nights, except July and August. July and August weekly rentals

La Maison Courbarien is located in Saint-Georges La Pouge, halfway between GUERET and AUBUSSON . La Maison Courbarien is listed in the Michelin Green Guide 2023 and in the Guide du Rou Numerous hiking trails nearby. Maison Courbarien offers 4 fully renovated bedrooms with private bathrooms: Two rooms with double beds for 2 people, a family room with double bed for 2 people and sofa bed, and a room with 2 single beds for 2 people. Upon reservation, Marc and Patricia will be happy to serve you their table d'hôtes and prepare a packed lunch for you. Everything is homemade with local produce. Bocce ball games, children's playhouse, swing sets and various games in a completely secure area for the little ones. Bikes for hire with child seats for exploring the surrounding area.

This is one of two self-contained gîtes that have been built in an adjoining barn to the side of the main residence. This spacious gîte is on the second floor, accessed via a set of external wooden steps leading to a wooden balcony containing a garden table and chairs and a private entrance. The gite offers a large living/dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, two spacious bedrooms, one with a king-size bed, the other has two single beds. There's a modern bathroom with walk-in shower, WC, washbasin and heated towel rail. You can enjoy al fresco dining on the private balcony, with views over the lawn and forest of Chez Jallot, as well as the surrounding countryside. Guests have full access to the gardens and facilities such as the sunken courtyard, at exp

This is one of two self-contained gîtes built in an adjoining barn to the side of the main residence. This spacious gîte is on the first floor of the barn and has private access to the rear of the building. There is also a shaded patio and a paved terrace to the side with a garden table and chairs. The gite offers a large living/dining room, well-equipped kitchen, two spacious bedrooms, one with a double bed, the other two single beds. There's a modern bathroom with walk-in shower, WC, washbasin and heated towel rail. The private patio offers guests the opportunity to enjoy meals and relax outside, admiring the views of the Chez Jallot lawn and forest. Guests have full access to the gardens and facilities, such as the sunken courtyard, to use as they wish.