Things to do

 

Things to Do – Explore the Hidden Green Heart of France 

The area around the cottage is a delight to explore, offering a mix of relaxation, history, outdoor adventure, and French charm. Often called the “Hidden green heart of France,” it’s a paradise for both people and their dogs. Whether you prefer quiet walks, cycling, water sports, sightseeing, or enjoying local food and wine, there’s something here for everyone.

Villages, Food, and Local Life

Châteaumeillant (just 3 km away) is full of local character and gastronomy. Enjoy a drink at the lively bar Le Chapitre, or at bar/restaurant Le Champ de Foire. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas, so you can relax without leaving them behind.

For a special meal, savour gourmet dining at La Goutte Noire. 

The Friday market is a highlight, with local producers selling fresh produce, cheese, and wine. There are also local shops, boulangerie, butchers, a Tabac and supermarket. 

The busy and picturesque towns of La Chatre and Saint Amond Montrond are nearby, with a variety of interesting shops, larger supermarkets and places to eat as well as the large bustling markets. Perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.

If you enjoy a Brocante or local fete, there will be at least one every weekend in one of the villages nearby, check out this website for details: brocabrac 

History 

From the Romans to the present day, this peaceful corner of the Berry has a story to tell. Chateaumeillant dates back to pre-roman times, when it was home to the Bituriges tribe and later conquered by the Romans. The small but interesting Chateaumeillant Museum/   has hundreds of Roman amphora and treasure found in the town, which still retains the ancient street layout and ramparts. We have even found roman roof tiles in our garden!

The Berry region is rich in history, and the châteaux make for memorable excursions:

  • Château de Sarzay:14th Century Sarzay with it's pepper pot towers looks like every child's dream of a "proper" castle. (on-lead dogs are welcome to visit inside and out)

  • Château d’Ainay-le-Vieil:  Ainay le Vieil , also known as "Carcassonne in miniature", a beautiful Renaissance chateau. Dogs are welcome in the gardens, so your whole family can explore the moat and landscaped grounds. There is a smart restaurant and dressing up for the little ones too.

  • Château de Meillant: Dating back to the 11th century,  Meillant is ideal for history lovers.

  • George Sand’s house at Nohant: Explore the home of the famous French writer and her life with Chopin. 

Garden lovers should also visit the Prieure d'Orsan , featured in Monty Don's most beautiful gardens in France TV show. Now privately owned, the serene landscaped gardens and tea shop are open to the public.  

Walking and Cycling 

From the cottage, you can step straight onto quiet country lanes and chemins ruraux (footpaths), perfect for gentle walks or longer adventures with your dog. There is a folder full of maps and directions for local waymarked trials. Two of our favourites:

  • Vineyard Walks from Châteaumeillant: Scenic routes through vineyards, ideal for walks on lead.

  • Lac de Sidiailles Circuit: A more challenging trail around the lake for active dogs and owners.

For cycling enthusiasts, the cottage provides a covered bike store and electric bike charging point, maps and cycling trails are in the folder in the cottage, and most routes are dog-friendly if you plan a walking/cycling combo.

Lakes, Water Sports, and Adventure

 

  • Lac de Châteaumeillant and Lac de Maissonais: Both lakes are great for fishing, our son and grandson have caught some good carp here. They both have picnic areas and paths around the water—perfect for a relaxed day out.

  • Lac de Saint-Jeanvrin: A serious carp-fishing lake with huge fish for avid anglers. Dogs are not allowed here, but it’s a must-visit for fishing enthusiasts.

  • Lac de Sidialles: The lake at Sidialles has a large sandy beach with safe bathing, you can hire canoes or pedelos to see the lake from the water. 

    If you are feeling adventurous, book in at Branche Aventure at Sidialles. a huge "Go Ape" type high ropes course, with routes for all ages. Including Tyro trek, with over 5km of zipwires criss-crossing the lake, I'm not brave enough, are you?

     

Wine, Food, and Local Produce

Chateaumeillant has been producing wine since the 5th century and now enjoys AOC status, specializing in vin gris (rosé) and red wines. The local markets are excellent for finding wonderful produce or you can follow the wine trial round Chateaumeillant.  

Horse Riding:

le Clos des 4 Fers 12 km away, offers lessons in the school and cross-country rides for all levels.

Further Afield – Memorable Day Trips

If you’re happy to travel a little further, there are some outstanding day trips within easy reach of the cottage, combining history, culture, and family-friendly attractions.

ZooParc de Beauval

Often rated as one of the best zoos in Europe, Zoo Parc de Beauval is set in a beautiful natural landscape and is well worth a full day out. The park is home to thousands of animals from around the world, including elephants, big cats, giraffes, and the much-loved giant pandas, which are always a highlight for children—our grandchildren absolutely loved them.

One of the unmissable experiences is the free-flight bird display, a spectacular show set in an open-air arena and included in the ticket price.

ZooParc de Beauval is also remarkably dog friendly. Dogs are welcome throughout the zoo, and we have visited ourselves with our Golden Retrievers, including attending the bird display arena with them. Dogs are only excluded from a small number of indoor exhibits (around 10%), making this an excellent option for guests travelling with dogs.

Bourges – Historic Capital of the Cher Department

The historic city of Bourges, capital of the Cher department, is around one hour’s drive from the cottage and makes a wonderful day trip for lovers of history and architecture.

Bourges is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval city centre, with half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and lively squares. At its heart stands the magnificent Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Bourges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in France.

Nearby, the impressive Palais Jacques Cœur, a 15th-century merchant’s palace, offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life and is one of the most important civil Gothic buildings in the country. The city is also surrounded by historic ramparts, gardens, and châteaux, making it a rewarding place to explore at a relaxed pace.

With its rich heritage, vibrant atmosphere, shops, cafés, and markets, Bourges is an excellent contrast to the tranquillity of the countryside and a must-see during your stay.

Whether you’re looking to relax in the countryside, explore historic towns, enjoy local cuisine, or discover the region with your dog, this area of the Berry region offers the perfect combination of peace, adventure, and authentic French charm.