Set on the banks of the Indre River in central France, Châteauroux is the picturesque capital of the Indre department. It centres around a medieval Old Town that features a 13th-century convent and a Neo-Romanesque church topped by a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.
Things to do in Châteauroux
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Hôtel Bertrand Museum, which occupies an 18th-century palace in the Old Town. It’s named after General Bertrand, who was a close friend of Napoleon and houses an outstanding collection of Gallo-Roman, medieval and modern masterpieces. Admire the Renaissance paintings that are on display and antique furnishings, then relax on the panoramic terrace.
Dating back to the 10th century, Château Raoul boasts a commanding position overlooking the Indre River and the Prairie du Moulin de Vindoux. It features a whitewashed facade topped by several towers and is listed as a Monument Historique. You can admire its architecture from the opposite bank or coincide your visit with one of the château’s open days to explore its interior on a guided tour.
Want to stretch your legs? Head to Belle Isle Park, which encompasses 21 hectares to the north of Châteauroux's Old Town. Established in 1981, it is a popular recreational destination, with tree-lined walking trails and a central lake where you can swim in the summer months. Kids can let loose on the bouncy castles of Lilot Z'Enfants while teenagers can play ten-pin bowls at Bowling Châteauroux.
Getting around Châteauroux
Châteauroux is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Orleans and just under three hours from Paris. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is 3.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Inter-city trains connect to the Châteauroux railway station and buses travel throughout the city.