Guide to Cher & Property for Sale in Department 18

Cher is a department in France's central region, established during the French Revolution in March 1790. It is one of the original 83 departments and was predominantly formed from the former province of Berry and the adjacent department of Indre. As a result, the inhabitants of Cher are called 'Berrichons'. The department is bordered by six other departments: Indre, Loir-et-Cher, Loiret, Nièvre, Allier, and Creuse. It is part of the current administrative region of Centre-Val de Loire and covers an area of approximately 7,235 square kilometres. Cher is home to about 314,000 people. Cher's administrative capital, Bourges, is a city steeped in history and culture. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of Saint Étienne, one of the city's major attractions.

UNESCO Heritage Sites

The department is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including the vineyards of Sancerre and the Loire Valley. These areas are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites and are popular tourist destinations. Cher has a rich history, and the department's museums, monuments, and landmarks provide an insight into its past.

Economic Landscape

Cher's economy is based on a combination of agriculture, viticulture, and industry. The region is renowned for its vineyards in Sancerre and Menetou-Salon, which produce some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc wines in the world. These wines, paired with local goat cheeses like Crottin de Chavignol, are central to Cher's gastronomy. Traditional dishes such as pâté berrichon (a meat pie with eggs) and poirat (a pear pie) highlight the department's culinary heritage.

Outdoor Activities and Cultural Events

The Cher River, along with numerous lakes and forests, makes the area a paradise for outdoor activities. Cycling, hiking, and boating are popular, as are cultural events in Bourges, like the Printemps de Bourges music festival, which attracts large crowds each spring. Cher offers a delightful mix of culture, history and scenic beauty, making it a captivating destination within the Loire Valley.

Key Information about Cher

• Main City/Prefecture: Bourges
• Nearest Airport: Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport or Paris-Orly Airport
• Population: Around 300,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 7,235 sq. kilometres and 2,793 sq. miles
• Landmark: Bourges Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Gothic architecture and stained glass.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1 million, attracted by its historic towns, vineyards and medieval heritage.

If you are looking for a property in Cher, please get in touch to discuss your search criteria.