Brives, 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 "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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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!

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

Long ago, the Grand'Font was delicated to Our Lady but popular belief later shifted to the worship of Sainte-Radegonde (521-587). Documented in the archives as early as the 15th century, this miraculous source initially spouted directly from the rock before being rebuilt on its present site during the Second Empire. Pregnant women used to have candles lit here for a successful delivery.

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

Here stood the castle built in c.1424, residence of the Chauvigny family, seigneurs of La Châtre. There only remains the keep which is 20 metres high and whose walls, cut with arrow-slits, are 2 metres thick. The tower was used as a prison from 1734 until 1937, when the building was acquired by Jean Despruneaux to house his collection of souvenirs of George Sand and her friends. In 1939, the ornithological collection of the municipal museum was moved here, and in 1954, for the 150th anniversary of her birth, it was renamed the George Sand and Black Valley Museum. In 1966 it was donated to the town of La Châtre by Jean Despruneaux.

Henri de Latouche, journalist, legal reporter, poet, author and founder of the newspaper "Le Figaro", lived in this house. A man of letters, he championed a number of authors such as André Chénier, Honoré de Balzac and George Sand. He died in 1851 and a stele, made of granite from Crevant, pays tribute to him in the gardens of the Town Hall. Between 1857 et 1872 this property became the "sous-préfecture" of La Châtre and today it houses the presbytery.

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 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 !

Traditional food

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€.

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

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

Fully-equipped gite in the heart of the Creuse countryside. Come and relax in this quiet, elegant accommodation and discover this green setting. Follow in the footsteps of Impressionist painters such as Claude Monet, who immortalized the Creus countryside in his works. 6 minutes from Bonnat, 10 min from Aigurande and 30 minutes from Guéret.

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)

British couple renovating a small 18th century country Chateau into chambre d'hote/ bed & breakfast.