Attractions and Places To See around Bélâbre - Top 9

Hike up to the old Château-Naillac with its twin 12th-century donjons—towers without buttresses—standing just above the Creuse River. Inside, you'll find remnants of prisoners' graffiti, a hall with a magnificent Romanesque fireplace, and a model showing what the castle once looked like.

This impressive viaduct over the Creuse River looks like an ordinary old railway structure, but the stories behind it make it special. It was built in the late 19th century for a railway line that was never fully completed, earning it the nickname "the ghost train line." During World War II, the Germans used the bridge as an observation post, and after the war, it fell into complete disrepair. In the 1980s, it was even threatened with demolition, until bungee jumpers discovered the viaduct and revived it. Today, you can walk across it with stunning views of the valley, and be aware that bats have found refuge under the arches.

The Viaduc du Blanc is a remarkable work of art located in the commune of Le Blanc, although the Creuse is often associated with this type of structure, this specific viaduct crosses the Indre region, in the Centre-Val de Loire region. This viaduct is an emblematic work of 19th century railway architecture in France. Points of Interest: Architecture and Construction: Railway Structure: Built at the end of the 19th century, the Viaduc du Blanc is one of the major railway infrastructures of the time. It was designed to allow trains to pass over the Creuse Valley, a river that crosses this picturesque region. Imposing Structure: The viaduct is distinguished by its stone arches, which extend over several hundred meters. The height and length of the structure testify to the technical and aesthetic ambition of its designers. With its multiple elegant arches, it blends harmoniously into the surrounding natural landscape while asserting its imposing presence. Why visit the Viaduc du Blanc? Engineering Masterpiece: The Viaduc du Blanc is an impressive example of 19th century railway architecture, combining technique and aesthetics in a monumental work. Breathtaking Landscapes: Located in an exceptional natural setting, the viaduct offers panoramic views of the Creuse Valley, ideal for nature and photography enthusiasts. Industrial Heritage: This viaduct is an important witness to French industrial heritage, allowing a better understanding of the history of infrastructure and rail transport in France. In short, the Viaduc du Blanc is a must-see destination for those interested in architecture, industrial history, and spectacular natural landscapes. It is a place that perfectly combines human technology and natural beauty.

The Green line is an old railroad track now paved and dedicated for cycling. It runs very straight and even from Argenton-sur-Creuse to Le Blanc. A nice bridge crosses the river Creuse in Saint-Gaultier and another much higher one in Le Blanc. Along the track you can see the old stations and other railway buildings. Every now and then you have to cross a street, so it is not like a race track - still you can make good speed and progress. Most parts run in the shade.

Located on a small height which offers a very extensive view of the valley, the castle is made up of two buildings at right angles with several turrets. With the exception of a few buttresses, the traces of fortifications still visible at the beginning of the 17th century have now disappeared.

Located on a small height which offers a very extensive view of the valley, the castle is made up of two buildings at right angles with several turrets. With the exception of a few buttresses, the traces of fortifications still visible at the beginning of the 17th century have today disappeared to make way for an imposing habitation.

huge chateau worth a stop to have a look

This impressive castle was built in the 11th century and was occupied by Guillaume X, father of Aliénor d'Acquitane. The queen of France from 1137 to 1152 was born in this castle. The castle was dismantled by Richelieu but was renovated in the 19th century.