OUT & ABOUT
Places to See
Being located in the centre of the Creuse, you can explore the area with ease. The Creuse is one of the greenest areas in France and is known as "the lake district of France". There numerous beautiful villages and lakes for you to visit and enjoy. Below are just a handful of places you can visit during your stay.
Ahun & Moutier d'Ahun
Our nearest local market town with it's roman church and bridge. Market day is Wednesday where you can browse and sample some of the local produce (including Mons. Berte's cheeses! - who is famous in the area and you will find him at every local market and event - just follow the smell of the cheese!). Or if your tastes are slightly more tranquil, just sit by the river at Moutier d'Ahun overlooking the famous Roman bridge and enjoy a picnic or perhaps a little fishing.
Aubusson
Standing on the River Creuse, the waters are used for making the coloured dyes in the rugs and tapestries that make Aubusson famous throughout the world (a selection of Aubusson tapestries currently hang at the Vatican). Tapestries have been made here since the 15th century, and can be seen in the local museum. Alternatively visit the open workshop at the Manufacture St Jean where they are still made to this day.
Masgot
Known as the "sculpture village", visit here and follow the trail around the village and admire the granite sculptures which adorn the village houses. Visit the workshop and exhibition and take home a piece of the local Creuse granite for yourselves. During the summer months, sculpture courses are held where you can learn the basic skills of the Mason's craft.
Bourganeuf
The first French town to have electricity - visit the museum to find out more. Bourganeuf finds itself integral to the "Lionheart" trail, being a base for Richard the Lionheart as he ventured into Europe with his Knights Templars. It is a busy market town with pretty building and a nice place to stopover for a coffee or lunch.
Gueret
The capital of the Creuse. As with the larger French towns, Gueret has expanded, but it's centre still remains full of character and the markets on a Thursday and Saturday in the town square should not be missed. As a centre of resistance activity during WW2, it boasts a wonderful museum and grounds where you can look back at the town's history.
Evaux les Bains
Famous for it's hot water springs, the water can reach temperatures of 60°C. For walkers, there is a three hour walk at Châtelet where people used to search the river for precious metals. The walk also passes by the gold mine.
Lac de Vassiviere
Located to the south of the area on the border of the Haute Vienne, Lac de Vassiviere is the largest man-made lake in the department. For the more energetic, it hosts water sports including skiing, swimming or boat hire. There is also "Arbre en Arbre" - a real "swing through the trees" experience. For the more leisurely life, there are numerous beaches, walks and restaurants overlooking the water. Alternatively take the train to the centre island and visit the Chateaux.