Cher Holiday Guide
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Cher offers stunning countryside and a wonderful gastronomy
Cher is a department that lies in the heart of France, and offers up a selection of that country's finest of everything. The views out over the Cher countryside are of rivers, meadows, vineyards and woodlands, while the towns are packed with wonderful heritage buildings and cultural attractions. It's also a fabulous destination for wining and dining, producing some excellent wines and having a reputation for delicious food.
Top 5 things to see and do in Cher
1. Tour the vineyards
Wine lovers can spend a very enjoyable holiday touring the Barry and Sancerre vineyards, learning about the wines and tasting the final product.
2. Follow the route of Jacques Coeur
Jacques Coeur was Charles VII's treasurer, and following the trail of palaces and monuments connected to his existence in the region is fascinating. The route takes you through some beautiful countryside in addition to showcasing many important and fabulous buildings.
3. The Berry Canal
The Berry Canal, although largely disused by boats these days, is a lovely, peaceful place to enjoy gently walking or cycling, thanks to its wide, flat towpath.
4. Visit the Potter's Village
A visit to the Potter's Village of La Borne is highly recommended. The quality of the local sandstone has long made this place a centre for potters, and the village offers numerous examples of their work for sale and exhibition. The pottery museum is also well worth a look.
5. Jonchère's Museum of the Witch
The superb Museum of the Witch (la Musée de la Sorcellerie) at Jonchère, traces the history of sorcery and is a source of fascination for kids, especially the more macabre bits! There is a good shop attached to the museum for mementoes of the day, and information is available in English as well as French.
Top 5 towns and cities in Cher
1. Bourges
Bourges, capital city of the Cher department, is packed with interest for everyone. It is a beautiful Art and History City, whose most celebrated feature is a stunning cathedral, but it is also a place to enjoy not just the architecture but a charming ambience, good shopping and excellent restaurants.
2. Sancerre
Sancerre is a delightful, mediaeval town with the added distinction of being surrounded by the vineyards that produce one of France's finest wines. The old town boasts a number of period features, while the views over the famous vineyards from the town's hilltop position are delightful.
3. Saint Amand Montrond
This lovely old town is worthy of a visit in its own right, being picturesque and authentic, and having various heritage buildings to enjoy. It is, however, also notable for an entirely different reason. Often referred to as the "City of Gold", Saint Amand is a great centre for goldsmiths, and the fabulous jewellery on offer in the shops here makes it the ideal place to take your loved one for a romantic proposal!
4. La Guerche sur l'Aubois
La Guerche sur l'Aubois is a town which is listed as a "green resort", meaning that it is set in picturesque countryside and makes a great base for enjoying the outdoor life, nature and sporting activities. This particular town is also blessed with a rich heritage, as well as playing host to numerous colourful festivals and other cultural events.
5. Apremont sur Allier
When you see that a village is officially listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, you know you are in for a treat. Apremont sur Allier is one such village, and will charm all its visitors with its mediaeval ambience, half-timbered houses and fairytale castle.
Food and drink in Cher
Cher is famed for its wines, with Sancerre heading the list. Probably the next most acclaimed delicacy from Cher is the Crottin de Chavignol goats' cheese, at its very best served warm with a drizzle of honey. This agricultural department also produces fine fruits and vegetables, cereals and meats.
How to get to Cher
The airports and TGV stations of Paris and Tours are easy to access from the UK, and just a short further journey will get you into the heart of the department of Cher.
