LOCATION
the south are more typical of the local Creusois style, with “houses and outbuildings in exposed granite and stone walls, with large chimneys, exposed beams, and gardens enclosed by stone walls.” Approximately one-quarter
Lac de Vassivière in Creuse is one of France’s largest artifi cial lakes
magnifi cent fl ora to recharge their batteries in the haven of calm here. Known worldwide for its rich
tapestry history, Aubusson is a delightful mix of quiet, narrow streets and large, multi-storey houses peering over the Creuse river. The crumbling ruins of a former castle, le Chapitre, loom high above the town and the stunning old bridge, Pont de la Terrade, is a photographer’s paradise.
MELLOW MISTS From here, the views down the river take your breath away – the houses are so close to the riverbanks, they appear to be fl oating on top of the water when the morning mist descends upon the town. The amazing landscape of hills, mountains, valleys and forests is clear evidence that you are stepping into the Massif Central. The town entices visitors
year-round with its vibrant history, and Aubusson tapestry was recognised as a Unesco Intangible Heritage
On the market
in 2009. It’s impossible to escape tales of weavers here, with a magnifi cent museum showcasing tapestries and carpets from centuries gone by, and the Maison du Tapissier located in a typical Creusois house exploring the history of tapestry. Maurice Marcon estimates that Aubusson’s title of Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie draws over 50,000 visitors every year. No mean feat for a small town hidden away in central France. Househunters come here
for the spectacular scenery and quiet way of life. In a department known for its green landscapes and tranquillity, Aubusson is the epitome of a haven of peace. House prices follow the pattern of
the rest of the department, remaining relatively cheap and aff ordable. If you’re up for the challenge of a complete house renovation, prices can start as low as €13,000 for a building of approximately 80m2
. For those
looking for more immediate comfort, a large house (around 200m2
), ready to move into, on
the heights of Aubusson with an amazing river view, will cost €180,000-€200,000. Philippe Petit of Agence
Creusoise notes that Aubusson is a popular choice for buyers as “the southern part of the department is hillier, and the rolling landscape attracts buyers more than the fl atter areas in the north”. Describing the architecture, he also explains that house styles in
of the house purchases in his agency are from buyers looking for second homes in tiny hamlets outside Aubusson, tucked away in secluded spots of natural beauty. He points out that buyers may originally buy properties here as second homes, but they eventually become primary residences as people quickly fall in love with the area and everything that it has to off er.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS In the southeastern corner of Creuse, Aubusson gives you easy access to Clermont- Ferrand, as well as Limoges (both approximately 85km away), so it’s the ideal base for living a rural life with a choice of larger towns within a reasonable distance. It’s easy to see why Creuse
An arctic wolf at Les Loups de Chabrières park; an Aubusson tapestry
is often referred to as France’s best-kept secret, as it has so much to off er. Whether the fl atter landscape of the north, and towns such as La Souterraine with easy access to trains and the motorway, are what you are looking for, or you prefer the forests, hills and valleys of the south with the rich heritage of towns such as Aubusson, in Creuse you can be assured of a tranquil lifestyle with spectacular nature, friendly people and fantastic value for money when it comes to the housing market. ■
FIND MORE PROPERTIES ON
FRENCHENTREE.COM
€88,000, Aubusson: Beautiful three-bedroom house at the foot of the iconic Tour de l’Horloge with great views over the town; habitable but needs updating (Agence Creusoise)
€123,000, Aubusson: Great B&B potential for this detached, seven-bedroom house, with a garage/basement, garden and lovely views over the town (Agence Creusoise)
46 FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: January/February 2024
€151,200, Aubusson: House to renovate in an ideal location for a B&B just two minutes from the town centre; it has 14 rooms, a garage and garden (Marcon Immobilier, Aubusson)
€109,000, Aubusson: Lovely two-bedroom house, southeast of Aubusson in rural Crocq; it has a fi tted kitchen, large garden and part is yet to be renovated (Marcon Immobilier, Aubusson)
© SHUTTERSTOCK
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