Essentials

Château de Villemonteix in Saint-Pardoux-les-Cards

Dating back to the 15th century, this medieval castle was strategically designed to oversee “the great road from Guéret to Clermont,” collecting tolls through its vantage point with a fortified keep and parapets. Today, the castle remains inhabited and beautifully furnished, showcasing an impressive collection of antique tapestries (Aubusson, Felletin, Gobelins, Beauvais, Flanders, Ferrara), period furniture, Beatrice de Camondo’s double Pleyel piano, and various other unique collections. It was classified as a historical monument in 1946.

Jardin Lacore in Saint-Pardoux-d’Arnet

The Lacore Garden, created in the 1980s on a meadow spanning about three hectares, serves as a vibrant setting for Alain Gribet’s mosaic sculptures in glass enamel. These colorful sculptures give the garden its energy and charm across all seasons. The garden features a rich variety of trees and shrubs, including a notable array of beech trees, as well as numerous species of maples, willows, and birches.

La Naute in Champagnat

La Naute invites you to enjoy the countryside’s natural beauty, with its ponds, riverside paths, and quaint villages that reveal themselves as you explore. Each season brings new and original activities, perfect for making the most of your holiday. At aperitif hour, the restaurant by the pond becomes a lively gathering place where you can savor the famous Creusois fondu amidst the site’s signature events, including the renowned concerts held by the Naute pond.

Village of Crocq

The village’s two towers are remnants of a mighty 12th-century fortress, offering panoramic views from their heights. Inside, rooms highlight the history of restoration efforts and host seasonal exhibitions. Also worth a visit is the charming Notre Dame de la Visitation Chapel.

Village of Flayat

The Étang de la Ramade is prized for its picturesque landscapes and its outdoor hotel complex, Lacustra, which clusters around the pond and offers various services along with ample recreational activities. The village’s Café de l’Espace is a lively gathering spot that hosts cultural performances and community events, as well as resident services. This collaborative, festive space, uniquely Creuse in spirit, is home to the association Pays’Sage, which organizes two annual festivals: “Les Bistrots d’hiver” from January to March and “Chemins de Rencontres” around August 15th. Pays’Sage also transforms the Millevaches plateau into a scenic, open-air stage.

Village of Saint-Georges Nigremont

Perched at an altitude of 750 meters, the village of Saint-Georges-Nigremont is adorned with playful and artistic installations. Climb the remarkable stone staircase to enjoy breathtaking views of the Creuse countryside and the Auvergne Mountains. The village itself is a hidden gem, with terraced gardens, orchards, dry-stone walls, and the presbytery’s bakery adding to its timeless charm.

The Arboretum du Lys in Champagnat

A visit to the Arboretum du Lys introduces you to over 120 species of trees and shrubs, including a notable collection of dogwoods and remarkable trees. Nestled in a lush, green setting, the arboretum offers a peaceful escape. After your visit, you can enjoy an exhibition. By appointment, sessions are offered on tree knowledge, relaxation, and self-discovery.

The Château d’Étangsannes in Saint-Chabrais

The Château d’Étangsannes is a fine example of a 15th-century merchant manor, built on the foundations of a 12th-century fortress. Originally surrounded by a moat—half of which remains—this château invites you to explore its outbuildings and several rooms featuring Renaissance-painted ceilings.

Les Ateliers de la Mine in Lavaveix-les-Mines

Listed as Historic Monuments, Les Ateliers de la Mine preserves Lavaveix-les-Mines’ mining heritage. A sound bench at the entrance recalls the town’s mining past, while a trail called “Walk Over the Mine” allows you to explore this history through the town’s industrial landmarks.

Les Mottes Castrales de l’An Mil in Saint-Dizier-la-Tour

The Saint-Austrille Tower site is a rare example of early medieval feudal power, originally a small fiefdom of the County of La Marche with a religious establishment. Each August, a festival is held, bringing enthusiasts in period attire for a weekend of historical reenactment.

Air Memorial Aviation Museum in Bellegarde-en-Marche

Managed by the Air Mémorial Creusois association, founded in 2008, this museum commemorates Creuse’s aeronautical history, showcasing civil and military aviation events and figures from the early days of flight to the present day.

Village of Auzances

At the Coux site, you can visit the remains of a Gallo-Roman villa situated near a pond, ideal for a relaxing walk or bike ride. It’s also home to the Coux Animal Park, making it a fun stop for families. Discover the Chapelles Sainte-Anne and Sainte-Marguerite, the church of St. James the Greater, and enjoy a panoramic view of the Noisette Valley and Auzances’ historic fortifications.

Village of Mérinchal

Explore the 12th-century Château de La Mothe and take in the natural beauty at the source of the Cher River, accessible along the Grande Randonnée trail no. 41, “Vallée du Cher.” Don’t miss Montaurat for a Terra Aventura geocaching adventure, uncovering the history of Creuse’s skilled stone masons.

Village of Sermur

Perched at 1,600 meters, Sermur offers sweeping views of the Auvergne Mountains and the Combraille ponds in southeastern Creuse. Climb to the top of the remains of the 11th-century medieval tower for a breathtaking panorama. This village is perfect for family outings, with geocaching and the game booklet “Fifine la Fouine.”

Village of Lioux-les-Monges

This charming village, built entirely of stone, epitomizes the style of Creuse’s masons. At the heart of Lioux-les-Monges, the well-kept priest’s garden offers a quiet spot near the former presbytery and the cultural center, “La Grange”. Nearby, follow the path leading to the Saint-Martial fountain, another hidden gem of the village.