It is there: your stay in the Cher is reserved and you are at the stage where you decide on your visit program. Facilitate life and immediately discover the ranking of the 11 things to do in the Dear!
Less than 250 kilometres south Paris , it is possible to visit the Cher, department with well kept secrets. Between exceptional culinary traditions and unparalleled architecture, the curious will be rewarded with their boldness and will find a thousand things to do in the Cher.
From Bourges to the roads of the Sancerre, you will take your eyes between medieval castles and Renaissance, excursions in the middle of nature and the discovery of Berricho artisanal traditions. Not to mention the fine gastronomy of the region that will awaken all in delight the bold taste buds of gourmets!
Discover without further delay the list of the 11 best things to do and to see in the Cher.
1. Bourges
Saint-Étienne Cathedral
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Felix Lipov
Bourges is to say THE city to visit in the Cher. His most famous monument is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Saint Stephen. Inscribed to Unesco’s world heritage, this majestic Gothic cathedral in Bourges dominates the whole city. On foot since the year 1195, it peaks at 65 meters high in the historical heart.
From the outside, contemplate the five portals to the magnificent work, corresponding to the five tracks you will find inside. Then climb its 396 steps to enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Bourges from the highest tower of the cathedral, admire its incredible collection of windows and its astronomical clock, then finish by visiting its crypt.
Jardin de l’Archevêché
Photo credit: Shutterstock – ilolab
At the foot of the cathedral, this French garden is the work of a student of Le Nôtre. A pretty little music kiosk is planted in its centre and gives it a particular charm. Very floral, it is surrounded by many trees and is an ideal step to relax after visiting the cathedral.
On your way out, enjoy your presence to explore Bourges and its medieval houses with woods. Lose yourself in these little paved streets to grasp the Berruyère atmosphere (yes, that’s what we say!). Visiting the streets of Bourges is one of the main things to do in the Cher.
Jacques Cœur
Photo credit: Facebook – Bourges Berry Tourism
In the heart of downtown Bourges, the Palais Jacques Cœur is one of the things to do during your stay in the Cher. The palace bears the name of the famous merchant and adventurer, silversmith of King Charles VII in the 15th century. The special hotel that he had built to honor his rank is today the second emblematic monument of the city, although the man had never had the opportunity to reside there.
2. The castles of Cher
If you are looking for what to do in the Cher, know that your stay would not be complete without planning a visit of one or two castles.
Indeed, the department has so many castles and castles of the Renaissance period that it would be difficult to draw up an exhaustive list. Here is a selection of four castles to visit in the Cher.
Château de Culan
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Richard Semik
At the extreme south of the department, in the village of the same name, this castle with high and rounded towers overlooks the surrounding valley. A true medieval fortress is the opportunity to dive with delights in its history that dates back to the 10th century.
Château d’Ainay-le-Vieil
Photo credit: Flickr – Esther Westerveld
Built in the 14th century, this majestic monument with round towers is remarkably well preserved. Discover its history, from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution and the Empire thanks to the guides who will be happy to revive its walls.
Continue by visiting its beautiful park where centuries-old trees live in the middle of beautiful watersheds.
Château de Meillant
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Richard Semik
The Gothic Castle of Meillant is a must-see in the Cher. Dating from the 13th century, he knows several waves of development throughout his history. Its beautiful park is open to the public and runs freely.
Then choose between a classical guided tour or a theme visit to the castle to better speak its walls and pierce the secrets of medieval architecture. Your choice!
Château des Stuarts
Photo credit: Shutterstock – RYSAN
In the commune of Aubigny-sur-Nère, this castle once belonged to the Stuart family become a city hotel is a treasure of Renaissance architecture to visit in the Cher. Built in the sixteenth century, its unparalleled elegance is emphasized by its ornamental turrets.
Beautiful Renaissance tapestries are displayed inside the castle. On the ground floor, discover in a fun and interactive visit the related destiny of the city of Aubigny-sur-Nère and of the Scotland .
3. Contemporary ceramic center La Borne
Photo credit: Facebook – Contemporary ceramics centre
We change the atmosphere by going to this contemporary ceramic art gallery to visit in the Cher. In the village of Henrichemont, contemplate original and quality creations directly related to the pottery heritage of France. The centre team will explain the techniques and know-how implemented in the realization of ceramic parts.
On the other hand, international artistic meetings are held regularly in the centre.
4. Star Pole
Photo taken from the radio telescope – Photo credit: Facebook – Star Pole: Planetarium in Berry Sologne
In the middle of the forest, in the commune of Nançay, this curious building with architecture for the least futurist. A place of research but also a museum, the mission is to make astronomy and its secrets accessible to all. Let yourself be taken in a journey in the heart of the mysteries and the Universe! A guided tour of the centre will be offered, as well as observation of the planetarium. Temporary exhibitions with fun themes also take place. A visit to the Dear to do absolutely for adults and young people!
5. Chèvrerie des Gallands
Photo credit: Facebook – Gems of the Gallands
In Crézancy-en-Sancerre, visit the goatrie of the Gallands and your belly will say thank you! Indeed, passing through the Sancerrois, impossible to miss the famous crottin of Chavignol. This tasty raw milk cheese enjoys a Appellation d’Origine Protégé. This family farm welcomes you from March to December to discover its traditional breeding and the processes of making their cheese according to ancestral recipes.
Of course, your visit will end with a passage to the farm shop to fill these fresh and scented delights!
6. Viaduc de Culan
Photo credit: Flickr – Daniel Jolivet
In Culan, in the south of the department, there is a majestic viaduct with the highest ark of 55 meters. This 19th century building houses the former Montluçon-Châteauroux railway line. In front of Culan Castle, you can try to jump to the elastic.
Take your momentum and dare to make the big jump, in a remarkable natural setting above the river. An original way to visit the Cher!
7. Abbaye de Noirlac
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Richard Semik
40 kilometres south of Bourges, this 12th century abbey is a treasure of history to be seen in the Cher. A time made of porcelain, in 1822, it fell in the public domain in 1909. Following the restorations of the last century, its state of conservation is to be welcomed. Its abbey, sober and majestic at a time, is of all beauty. The places were emptied of all furniture and antique objects so that the light penetrates and magnifies the architecture.
On leaving the abbey, you can venture into a nice walk in the greenery or share a picnic.
8. Sancerre and its vineyards
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Gregory Guivarch
Boasting vineyards and the river of the Loire, Sancerre is a medieval city to see in the Cher. In addition to its picturesque and narrow streets, its castle and belfry offer an exceptional historical heritage. In the vicinity of the village of Sancerre, make your own Wine Route!
In this part of the Centre-Val de Loire , the most present grapes are the sauvignon for white wine and black pinot for red. On more than 2,800 hectares, go to meet the best local winemakers. They will welcome you with pleasure to unveil the secrets of wine development and make you taste the best wines.
9. Hiking
View of Chavignol, from the homonymous hike – Photo credit: Instagram – peperejeanvins
Hiking fans can smile, as two circuits are to be discovered in the heart of the department.
Chavignol loop
In the Grand Sancerrois, this hike is one of the most popular routes in the department of Cher. At the start of the commune of Verdigny, progress on 11 kilometers through the villages of Chavignol and Amigny in a succession of valleys in the middle of the vineyards. Do not hesitate to take a gourmet break: red wine and crottin of chavignol of the Berrichon terroir will give you strength for the continuation!
Attention: this hike of more or less 3 hours is rather difficult and therefore stands for confirmed hikers.
Hirtaignes circuit
A rather easy level for this hike from Chaon that you can do with children. On a little less than 9 kilometers, you will pass through the localities of the Hirtaignes and the Fontaines. It is an opportunity to admire some historic buildings such as the Hirtaignes Castle and the old mill, passing through paths lined with majestic trees and many ponds.
At the beginning of autumn, shimmering colors are at the rendezvous. Plan about 2 and a half hours to go around this hike.
10. Lake Sidiailles
Photo credit: Facebook – Sidiailles Lake
Lake Sidiailles is a must-see detour in the Cher if you love green spaces and what they have to offer. Just an hour’s drive from Bourges, relax your feet in the water with family or friends. The landscaped banks only wait for you and your beach towel for a small bronze session. Hiking trails cross the surrounding forest to make the full of clean air.
Around the lake, it is possible to find a multitude of activities. Accrobranche, pedalo, swimming, petanque or climbing: choose the one that matches you best!
11. Museum of Banking Fours
Photo credit: Facebook – Berry-Sologne Tourism
We finish this list of 11 things to see in the Cher by a small museum located in the commune of Vierzon. It is located around two banal ovens of the 15th century, and honors the rich heritage of the region Centre-Val de Loire.
In the medieval era, the banal oven belongs to the lord and the inhabitants come to cook their bread by paying a right of entry. The free visit is free and a commented visit is offered to you for a very modest sum. Dive into the traditions and daily life of the Middle Ages without further delay!
How do I go to the Cher?
Several options are available to you to reach the Cher.
By plane
To get to the Cher by plane, we advise you to study the flight possibilities using a type-comparant Skyscanner . Indeed, there is no airport with regular lines inside the department. However, within a 150-kilometre radius are the two Aerogares of Tours and Orleans .
Paris-Orly and Clermont-Ferrand airports are about 2 hours' drive from the Bernese capital. At your simulations to find the most interesting route!
By train
Another way to visit the Cher is to get there by train. Bourges train station is connected by regular lines to the cities of Paris, Tours, Orléans, Montluçon and Nevers.
By car
The highway A71 allows to reach Bourges and its periphery, no matter where you come from. The presence of several national roads also facilitates mobility in the department. Moreover, if the car is not the most comfortable means of transport, its use is almost mandatory if we intend to get out of Bourges.
Where to stay in the Cher?
A destination to be preferred for the followers of medieval tourism, the Cher houses many tourist accommodations. Use therefore Compare hotels to select the one that best matches your expectations. Escale dans une chambre d’hôtes à Bourges , overnight in a traditional lodging between the visit of two castles or duo escapade in a large domain of the Sancerrois: you will have the embarrassment of choice!
Many Airbnb are also available, for those who wish to live the stay as well as the premises.
From now on, the Cher is only waiting for you. Good trip!
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