Introduction

Located in central France, Indre is, in terms of population, one of the smallest French departments. It receives its name from the Indre River which passes through the region. It is bounded by the departments of Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher, Vienne, Cher, and Creuse. Indre, known colloquially as 'le Pays des Harmonies', is one of the most rural regions in France. Life continues here at the same unhurried pace as it has done for hundreds of years.

History

The department was created in 1790 in the middle of the French Revolution. Together with the adjacent department of Cher, it was part of the former French province of Berry. The department has been home to a number of famous personalities, in particular, the Romantic composer Chopin, who is said to have composed many of his finest works whilst living in the town of Nohant. Other celebrated residents of the Indre region include the composer Franz Lizst, and the prolific authors Honoré de Balzac and George Sand.

Major Cities

Indre consists of four departmental arrondissements, 26 cantons and 247 communes. The principal towns and areas of historical interest within this department are:

• Argenton-sur-Creuse
• Châteauroux
• Eguzon
• Issodun
• La Châtre
• Le Blanc
• Levreux
• Reuilly
• Valençay

Weather

Temperatures vary a great deal across the year. The average temperature for January is generally between 3 and 4 degrees Celsius. However, be warned that minimum temperatures for this month often dip below freezing. July sees temperatures usually reaching a pleasant 19 or 20 degrees.

The Indre department is characterized by a non-homogenous climate. Given its vast size – the department has a total land area of 6791 square kilometers – there are considerable differences in precipitation between the northern and southern portions of the department. The northern reaches of this department receive, on average between 500mm and 600mm of rainfall per annum. This is in contrast to the south, where the Aigurande area has been known to receive over 1000mm of rainfall on occasion. Frost is a far more frequent occurrence in the higher altitude southern regions than it is in the North. Southern Indre experiences frost for over 80 days each year.

Tourist Sites

Tourism is the predominant industry in the Indre department. The department's capital city, Châteauroux, was founded almost a thousand years ago and a few of its buildings date back to Roman times. The Château Raoul, from which the town receives its name, boasts a splendid collection of archeological artifacts and fine art. The development of the railways saw the town take on a more industrial role in the region's economy. Today, Châteauroux offers visitors a wide variety of yearly attractions - from dance festivals to an antiques fair, known locally as a 'brocante' and a Christmas market which ushers in the festive season. For further information on what Châteauroux has to offer, visit www.ville-chateauroux.fr, or email tourisme-chateauroux@wanadoo.fr.

No visit to the Indre department would be complete without experiencing some of its many picturesque towns and villages. The medieval village of Saint-Benoît-du-Sault overlooks the Portefeuille River and has been named one of the most beautiful villages in France. The town's Roman priory is one of the oldest in the region and dates back to the 14th century. The ancient ramparts which encircle the town were constructed to protect the church buildings during the heated battles fought between feudal overlords. The town's many cobbled streets and alleyways add to its charm and must be explored by any visitor. For further information, contact the town's tourist office at the following numbers: Phone: +33 2 5447 6795 or +33 2 5447 5144; Fax: +33 2 5447 5919.

Fans of the author George Sand will no doubt wish to visit Indre's other village of breathtaking beauty, Gargilesse, which the writer referred to as 'Little Switzerland'. This was the location of Sand's cottage retreat. It is open to the public from 1 April to 31 October from 0930 to 1230 and 1400 to 1900. Enquires may be made by calling +33 02 54 47 84 14. Sand's château at Nohant and the breathtaking gardens which make up part of the property may also be explored by visitors.

Family Entertainment

Most major hotels cater well to the needs of their younger visitors by offering a wide variety of organized games and activities. The department's numerous parks and gardens and open spaces provide a beautiful setting for younger children to play in. The Lac du Rochgaudonat at Chaillac boasts a spectacular summer firework display that will be enjoyed by all younger visitors to the region.

Shopping

Despite its largely rural nature, Indre offers some good shopping opportunities. In particular, one should not overlook this department's many traditional markets, which offer excellent deals on high quality gourmet produce as well as vintage clothing, organic food and antiques. The open air market at les Herolles is a traditional country market which dates back some four hundred years. It takes place on the twenty-ninth day of each month. Dried sausages, truffles, cheeses and honey are just some of the local delicacies that may be purchased here.

Food and Drink

As with many French departments, Indre is famous for its wide array of delicious local dishes and fine wines. The cultivation of vegetables has always been important to the economy of the Indre region and as such one should not miss out on sampling the high quality produce available at most local villages. Goat's cheese (generally sold in vats shaped like pyramids) is another local specialty. The department also possesses a number of superb restaurants, brasseries and bars. Freshwater fish dishes are served in many restaurants and must not be missed. Berrichon pastries and pies make scrumptious desserts, especially when consumed with one of the department's hallmark liquors.

Beaches

Indre is a department of many surprises. Despite being located in the middle of France it possesses a number of fine beaches which run along the banks of its many lakes. Swimming and water-sports facilities are also available at these locations. Sailing on Lake Eguzon is another popular tourist activity. A useful report detailing the experiences of visitors to this lake and others may be found here.

Ease of Access

If you wish to travel to Indre by airplane, then it is necessary to fly into Limoges Airport as the airport at Châteauroux does not accommodate tourist flights. Car hire facilities are available at Limoges airport. Train journeys to and from Paris take approximately two hours and the French railways operate a direct service between Châteauroux and the main Parisian terminals.

Value for Money

Indre undeniably offers good value for money despite being located in the heart of rural France. Small family run hotels offer a reasonably priced option to those who do not want to compromise quality when traveling on a budget. As ever, off-peak season travel ensures lower transportation costs.

Summary

The Indre department offers fantastic opportunities for a relaxed holiday in central France. Its magnificent villages and châteaux provide the idyllic surroundings for a long summer vacation whilst the department's capital city, Châteauroux is perfect for weekend visitors – a holiday destination most definitely not to be missed.