Holidays in Creuse, Limousin, Massif Central, France

The department of Creuse is located in the centre of France, right among the impressive mountains of the Massif Central, and named after the river that runs through the region. There are few large town and cities in a region that is dominated by its rivers and mountains, though the smaller historic town of Aubusson has an important place in the history of French and European art.

Aubusson

The town of Aubusson is famous throughout Europe for the tapestries that have been made there through the centuries, many of which now hang in palaces and museums in major cities. The town itself has its roots in Roman times and there are still many historical buildings and churches to enjoy while wandering the streets. Naturally, there is a museum dedicated to the art of tapestry in Aubusson, which features examples of the art from the last few hundred years as well as authentic traditional equipment and regularly holds demonstrations of how tapestries are made.

Lake Vassiviere

If you’re a fan of water sports, hiking or just relaxing on the beach, then you shouldn’t miss a trip to Lake Vassiviere, one of France’s largest lakes at just over 1000 hectares in area. There are three locations for organised boat trips around the edge of the lake or you can hire your own boat from Auphelle. There are six sandy beaches around the lake’s coastline. Some with children’s playing areas, which all get very busy in summer, when bathing is supervised. Families can also enjoy a range of sports nearby or just take a walk in the woods and villages surrounding Lake Vassiviere. If you’re feeling more active you can try out water-skiing on the lake or take out a pedal boat to swim were the water is quieter.

Chill Out

The town of Evaux-les Bains is Creuse’s very own spa town and has been for generations. Not only is it the only spa town in the department of Creuse but it the only one in the whole Limousin region! It has a history dating back 2,000 years to the Celts and even Roman visitors. The baths these days are very modern and hygienic and allow those with conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis, as well as those who have just spent a long day walking in the Creuse countryside, to relax. The spa is open between March and October every year.


The Author writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Villas in Creuse and Villas in France which can be rented direct from their owners.