Creuse

The department of Creuse is the least populated and the safest in the whole of France. In some ways, it is the department that time forgot, or, put another way, a still undiscovered secret. Unlike the Dordogne, you will not find busy roads and crowded restaurants, simply peace and quiet and gentle folk with good manners. Life moves slowly; it is no good being in a hurry here. People take the time to enquire after each other, even if there is a queue! But if Creuse does not resemble the Dordogne in its busyness, it certainly does in its natural beauty. Here you can walk safely for miles through green and rolling countryside, frequently spotting wildlife such as deer and birds of prey.

On our doorstep (5 mins) is a charming lake called Lac de Chaume which is a noted fishing lake, particularly for carp. Permits are easily obtainable. Here also are sandy beaches with a play area and a bar-restaurant.

There are other huge, beautiful lakes where all manner of water sports are undertaken. Near us (about 20 minutes' drive away) is the Lac de Chambon, the home of the French National Water-skiing team. 

Here you can water-ski, wind-surf, canoe or kayak, row lazily or just sit and watch others make the effort. There are beaches on which to sunbathe or play ball games and some stunning scenery to delight the eye. There are many picturesque villages to visit such as Crozant with a dramatic view of its X1 century castle ruins, a charming walk by the river Sedelle and perhaps a traditional French meal in the local auberge. Or Fresselines, a village popular with local artists and boasting an art gallery, following in the footsteps of Monet who frequently rented a house in the middle of the village in order to paint the views nearby. Or take a boat ride on the Lac d'Eguzon which will carry you down river to the Lac de Chambon past the ruins of Crozant. If you venture further afield, you may visit the world capital of tapestry - Aubusson, barely changed since the Middle Ages where you can visit the Museum of Tapestry. Or stop off at the ancient town of Bourganeuf, dominated by the tower of Prince Zizim, the son of sultan Mehmed 11, who was imprisoned in the tower in the XV century by Pierre d'Aubusson. Whenever you come, you are sure to find something of interest like this apple and chestnut festival: