Saint-Germain-Du-Puy: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

Saint-Germain-du-Puy combines a multifaceted local history with preserved buildings and historically themed walking tours. A special way to explore this heritage is the historical and tourist walking tour of Val d’Yèvre: it is marked by 16 information panels explaining the history of the former agricultural penal colony for young people. Each information panel features QR codes; seven additional themed stations complement the historical exploration. The walking tour is 4,000 metres long. Depending on the level of detail desired, visitors should allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes for it.

History

The former agricultural penal colony for young people in Val d’Yèvre existed from 1847 to 1924 and accommodated around 5,000 boys aged between 8 and 20. Well-preserved buildings dating from the mid-19th century can still be found at the site. The chalet-style buildings feature round-arched openings decorated with brick, reminiscent of Sologne architecture.

Historical traces also emerge in striking details elsewhere. The 14 Stations of the Cross in the church of Saint-Germain-du-Puy were created by the sculptor Gilbert Privat, who was awarded the Prix de Rome in 1921. The Rabot Mill in Fenestrelay on the Yèvre has been documented since 1189; at its site, visitors can admire the well-preserved mill building and its large waterwheel.

Culture

In Fenestrelay, a magnificently restored former manor house preserves a portal with a square dovecote above it. Its roof features three stone dormers with flat gables and three finials, apparently dating from the 17th century. Château de Villemenard preserves a gallery in the Louis XII style, which is considered rare in Berry. The château is located on private grounds on the River Colin; visits take place only during the Fête au château in July and the European Heritage Days in September.

Château de Turly is an episcopal residence and has been listed as a Monument historique since 16 December 2020; part of the protected estate lies in Saint-Germain-du-Puy. The associated garden in Saint-Germain-du-Puy is laid out in a formal style and situated on a slope. It includes parterres, groups of trees planted in a quincunx pattern, an ornamental lawn and a boulingrin.

In addition, the association Amis du patrimoine de Saint-Germain-du-Puy offers slide shows, exhibitions and guided tours on request.

Further destinations

You can access other destinations in this selection via the following places: Méreau, Ménétréol-Sous-Sancerre, Jars, Sagonne, Bué, Ménétréol-sur-Sauldre, Mehun-Sur-Yèvre and Allogny.

To the higher-level travel overview: Cher.