Chateauroux, 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.

At an altitude of 370m, the village offers magnificent panoramic views of the Monts de la Marche, in particular the Puy des Trois Cornes, and the heights of St Vaury and Maupuy near Guéret. The commune's main economic activity is agriculture, generally based on the breeding of Limousin and Charolais cows. Its proximity to the Bourg d'Augurante means it benefits from all the services and shops of its Berrichonne neighbor. The area has a rich architectural heritage, with several castles, fortified houses and manor houses bearing witness to a very interesting historical past. Numerous ponds and streams are a reminder of the proximity of the sources of small rivers (Gargilesse and Bouzanne) feeding the Loire basin. The omnipresent granite in the buildings bears witness to the skills of the extraordinary builders of the Creuse region

At an altitude of 370m, the village offers magnificent panoramic views of the Monts de la Marche, in particular the Puy des Trois Cornes, and the heights of St Vaury and Maupuy near Guéret. The commune's main economic activity is agriculture, generally based on the breeding of Limousin and Charolais cows. Its proximity to the Bourg d'Augurante means it benefits from all the services and shops of its Berrichonne neighbor. The area has a rich architectural heritage, with several castles, fortified houses and manor houses bearing witness to a very interesting historical past. Numerous ponds and streams are a reminder of the proximity of the sources of small rivers (Gargilesse and Bouzanne) feeding the Loire basin. The omnipresent granite in the buildings bears witness to the skills of the extraordinary builders of the Creuse region

On the edge of the Indre, adjacent to Aigurande, the commune features 3 very different landscape units: to the west, the steep-sided valley of La Petite Creuse, overlooked by the village of Lignaud, with traces of a very ancient past; in between, a tightly-knit, wooded, undulating bocage, criss-crossed by numerous streams, with beautiful vistas. The area is dotted with numerous villages, some of them quite substantial, such as Lignaud and Les Chaumes. A surprising number of village crosses and pathways, in stone, wood or iron, dot the commune. An unusual feature: the commune has two Monuments aux Morts (war memorials), one in the village and one in the hamlet of Villechiron. The writer George Henry (1896-1906), whose real name was Henriette Jeanne Bruner, was a regular visitor to the hamlet of Piodon.

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.

The Tour de la Creuse à vélo, a 327km signposted route, awaits you to discover Creuse from west to east and north to south! This cycling tour will enable you to discover the remarkable - and often little-known - natural and cultural heritage of a department rich in remarkable and surprising sites! From the valley of the Creuse painters to Lake Vassivière, via Aubusson, the Etang des Landes nature reserve, the medieval towns of La Souterraine, Bénévent l?Abbaye and Bourganeuf, or the abbey church of Chambon/Voueize and the spa town of Evaux les Bains, you'll discover a countryside of ever-changing landscapes along the back roads. The Tour de la Creuse by bike is 100% discovery, and the assurance that you won?t get bored on a varied itinerary suitable for all types of cyclists, from families to seasoned sportsmen and women. There's something for everyone!

On either side of the Sédelle, this loop reveals a little-known heritage of the Crozant region: its countless stone crosses scattered along roadsides and intersections, in the heart of hamlets or in the countryside.

Departure from parking lot, rue Armand Guillaumin. A route of great variety, between railroad por-tions (la Chapelle Baloue, Vaussujean) and technical singletracks (le Perthuis, Mazérolles). You'll have the privilege of riding up the valley of the painters (Crozant, le pont Charraud). There's a wet section in winter between the villages of Maisons and Crozant. Don't forget to stop for lunch at Crozant, where the panorama is magnificent.

La Chaise de Gonnot is a small village 8 km from all amenities. The village has a baker and a grocer. Fishing nearby in the La Creuse and La Petite Creuse rivers: a real paradise for wild trout fishermen and lovers of unspoilt nature. Lac de Chambon leisure center (13km) offers water sports activities (water skiing, buoys, beach, waterslide). Walks available from the gîte.

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).

Just a few kilometers from Pouligy Notre Dame and its golf course, which has a highly technical 6120 m course with 16 water hazards, wide fairways and greens. For fishing, La Petite-Creuse is just 7km away. On foot, you can go for a walk starting from the house. The owner, who loves flowers and plants, will be happy to advise you on what to see.

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.

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....

Comfortable, spacious and well-decorated house. Garden with a first terrace opening onto the kitchen with dining area. A second wooden terrace, with garden furniture for your moments of relaxation. La Celle Dunoise is 2km away. La Creuse river for leisure activities. Hiking from the gîte... Discover La Vallée des peintres, take a stroll along the interpretive trails, and let yourself be carried away by the history of the Impressionists. It's just a stone's throw away!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

The bridge takes its distorted name from the Escabignat family, rich burghers who made a donation towards the development of the bridge. On either side, wooden houses can be seen, former tanneries with drying areas extending over the river Indre. The proximity of water made it possible to soak the hides which, after numerous stages, were put in attics to dry. The ise of the leather indsutry in the region developed significantly, and in 1811, there were 18 tanneries in La Châtre, the greatest concentration of this trade in the region. They closed, along with numerous mills along the river, one after another at the end of the 19th century.

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.

Traditional French cuisine. Our restaurant is located just 1 km from the centre of Crozant, in the north of the Creuse area. You'll enjoy our terrace over the Creuse river and the Crozant ruins. Activities in the area include : boat rides on the river, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, the Sédelle arboretum...

It is in the heart of the village of Crozant, above the anciant medieval castle that Pierre and Sebastien PROUX have decided to open this restaurant. Composed by 3 rooms in a typical house, Marie Pierre is gonna welcome you in a warm atmosphere with bright colors. The CHEF Sébastien proposes gourmet cooking menus with regional produces. You can come whenever you want, after a hiking day, for a ceremony, buisness trip, tourism.... Just take the time to discover the real taste of simple things. This restaurant received 2 "toques" (chef's hat) in the very famous Guide Michelin

Restoring with today's menu in 13€, Party snack from continuous 6.50€.

Situated in the village of Fresselines, famous for the art galleries, the restaurant “The artists of the confluence” proposes a traditional and home-made food, for a drink or an afternoon tea (“le 4 heures” in French). Nice prices, nice atmosphere, Corinne will be happy to welcome you !

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

Traditional food

A warm welcome, delicious food. Vegetarian menu possible.

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 and family kitchen restaurant

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

Through the private entrance, you enter the comfortable living room with a spacious sofa/sofa bed and dining tables. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen, which is fully equipped. There is a washing machine in the kitchen. The first floor bedroom (chambre Noisette) is a cosy room. It can accommodate 2 single beds. Sitting area with kettle. With private bathroom including towels, hairdryer... The room on the 1st floor (chambre Châtaigne) is a spacious, modern room with two double beds cot available The garden has a garden set - 2 bicycles available Open all year round. Sleeps 5

La Chaise de Gonnot is a small village 8 km from all amenities. The village has a baker and a grocer. Fishing nearby in the La Creuse and La Petite Creuse rivers: a real paradise for wild trout fishermen and lovers of unspoilt nature. Lac de Chambon leisure center (13km) offers water sports activities (water skiing, buoys, beach, waterslide). Walks available from the gîte.

We also offer the possibility of renting out all the gites, so that we can accommodate 18 people close to Crozant and the Vallée des Peintres. Rates at 335? low season, 405? mid season, 540? high season (bed linen and towels included, housekeeping included, pool and spa access).

Maison de meunier on the banks of the Petite Creuse; a stone's throw from the Confluent, Claude Monet site: ground floor: living/dining room, kitchen; bathroom/wc; large bedroom with 140cm bed plus sofa bed. Upstairs, a large bedroom with a 140cm bed and a second bedroom with two 90cm beds. Outside, garden, children's games, a large swimming pool to share with the owner, pétanque court, fishing pontoon. Please contact only at meal times or by message (sms or email). Pets are not accepted. The river banks are secured by fences. Bed linen will be provided but not towels. Off-season weekends (April to June and September to December) 800 euros per week in high season (July and August) weekends only from April to June, please check with the owner before booking

The Creuse Valley, cradle of the Impressionists, is offered to you! Jean Luc welcomes you in his house, the nest of both Creuse and offers 4 carefully renovated guest rooms. Each room has a TV, a bathroom and WC. Breakfast is served in the family kitchen. The "Eugène Alluaud" room is equipped with a bed 2 seats 160 x 200, one bed 35" and one bed 55". The most: the Monet-Rollinat exhibition space is within walking distance. The confluence of both Creuse is 15 minutes away on foot. Canoeing, kayaking and boat trips will ravire appreciate whole, wild and changing landscapes constantly according to the light.

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).

Just a few kilometers from Pouligy Notre Dame and its golf course, which has a highly technical 6120 m course with 16 water hazards, wide fairways and greens. For fishing, La Petite-Creuse is just 7km away. On foot, you can go for a walk starting from the house. The owner, who loves flowers and plants, will be happy to advise you on what to see.

Situated just a stone's throw from the confluence of the Creuse, bordering the river (for swimming and fishing) and not far from the ruins of Crozant. If you want to get away from it all for a few days or weeks, why not rent in a picturesque setting? In this calm and friendly setting, with family or friends, you can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails, as well as the charm of the Fresselines countryside, where water plays a predominant role and which has seduced landscape painters since the end of the 19th century.

Campsite with 2 pitches (capacity 5 people, Accueil Paysan label) in half-shade, behind the orchard; sanitary facilities at the rear of the house (dry toilets, sink and shower) with kitchen area (sink), fridge available, solar lighting outside, with possibility of using a solar cooker and a rocket stove, on a farm with animals (chickens, ducks, geese, goats, sheep, bees).In the heart of the countryside, in a small, quiet hamlet, 3 km from the village of lourdoueix st pierre, not far from Aigurande and the Vallée des Peintres. Trails will take you through the countryside, valleys and woods.

Rental of 2 apartments, located in Saint-Sébastien commune of the Pays Dunois in northwest Creuse, at the crossroads of three departments indre, Creuse and Haute Vienne, on the SNCF Paris-Toulouse line Paris-Toulouse line, and around ten kilometers from the A20. The commune boasts several hiking trails accessible by mountain bike, on horseback or on foot, and a TERRA AVENTURA trail for for young and old alike. You'll find local shops as well as the post office, train station, pharmacy and equestrian 200 m from the bungalows. RATES : OFF SEASON : - 31? per night -150? per week SEASON (June 15 to September 15) -45? per night -220? per week SECURITY DEPOSIT: 100? Optional cleaning fee: 30?