ル・ペーシェローのおすすめライド

Towering over Argenton-sur-Creuse is the gilded statue of the Bonne Dame, a beacon visible from afar. What few people know is that this six-meter-high statue was dragged from the train station to the chapel in 1899 by ten oxen and thirteen horses, to the loud applause of the town's inhabitants. Today, you can hike up the hill yourself and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the Creuse valley—with the Bonne Dame still standing guard over the town.

Walk past this medieval castle and notice the contrast: a high keep with machicolations and details like coats of arms and an ornate tympanum above a door. Imagine it once being defended, while its inhabitants still sought comfort. And if you walk past it at dusk, the silhouettes of the towers and nature make it almost poetic.

In the Creuse valley lies the picturesque village of Gargilesse-Dampierre. The village is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. And I can see why: the romantic charm of the closely packed houses with their steep, brown-tiled roofs, which surround the castle. Truly artistic, picturesque, and charismatic. It's wonderful to take a walk in this area and have a drink at one of the restaurants. Especially the restaurant at the top, where you have a magnificent view of the village and the castle.

A beautiful (quiet) walking route with a rest area with a bench about halfway along, where we were joined by donkeys. Part of the route crosses and follows the Creuse River. Beautiful views, with several benches and picnic tables along the river.

Extremely colorfully painted church.

Beautiful river!

It’s important to take a break!

Beautiful landscapes!