Aubigny-sur-Nère and the Sologne

"Sologne is a beautiful, mysteriously fascinating region deeply close to nature, which can only be discovered by "pushing aside its branches", according to Alain-Fournier, author of Le Grand Meaulnes. The little character town of Aubigny-sur-Nère, which stands at the gateway to Sologne, is a go-ahead place with a well-preserved heritage strongly influenced by the history of Scotland  and a rich local way of life. The Scottish history of Aubigny began in 1423 during the Hundred Years’ War when Charles VII gave the lands of Aubigny to John Stuart of Darnley to thank him for his help in fighting against the English. For around 250 years, the village lived the Scottish way of life, leaving a heritage which is still omnipresent today. The annual Franco-Ecossaises (Scottish) Fêtes, whisky made in Berry and even a local pipe band are just some of the proof that the village once belonged to the Stuarts. Even today the village’s historic buildings recall its prosperity under the Stuarts. It is impossible to miss the town centre with its half-timbered houses, its castle and genuine Scottish pub. There is no shortage of cultural events at La Forge, an old factory converted into a theatre with a widely diverse programme of events. On Saturday mornings the town is largely pedestrianised during the lively, convivial local market.

Essential attractions when visiting Aubigny-sur-Nère (named after the little River Nère which runs through it) include the Renaissance-style Château des Stuarts castle which contains Aubusson tapestries presented by Louis XIV to Louise de Keroual who was his secret agent and simultaneously mistress of Charles II of England, the Maison François 1er which houses an art gallery, the Grands Jardins (gardens designed by a disciple of Le Nôtre), the monument to the Auld Alliance which sealed the friendship and assistance between Scotland and France and lots of half-timbered houses like the Maison Saint-Jean, Maison du Bailli and Maison Bourdoiseau.