Is this the true south of France? Joanna Leggett explores the good life in the cities of Sète and Montpellier in the Herault department, Occitanie, southern France…

Sète sits at the head of a narrow isthmus which encloses the Étang de Thau – a saltwater lagoon – which runs down as far as Marseillan to the Canal du Midi. All along this western coast of the Mediterranean there are such lagoons many, if not all, renowned for the quality of their seafood where oysters and mussels are a speciality! The town, with its many canals which give it the nickname the ‘Venice of Occitanie’, is famous for its water jousting – a tradition that was born in the year 1666 when Louis XIV was living in the Louvre and Versailles was still a country hunting lodge!

Discover Sète

The first stones of the port in Sète were laid in 1666 and water jousting took place to celebrate the event and it quickly became the local sport. In fact this maritime sport most likely dates to Roman times – though it’s now firmly a passionate feature of Languedoc culture.

From mid-June onwards, water-born combats are held along the canals. Huge rowing boats are specially crafted with raised ladders at one end, four jousters stand on these ‘tintaine’ while ten rowers propel the boats – all dressed in white. On-board, bands of pipers and drummers knock out a beat to encourage each boat forward.  Like an orchestrated ballet, boats pass each other seven times while, at the same time, huge brass bands blast forth to excite and encourage spectators lining the quay.

As boats get closer the first jouster picks up the shield and jousting pole and tries to dislodge the opposition boat’s jouster from their platform. Naturally there’s great applause when anyone falls into the canal!

As with any self-respecting sport there are different categories (children start learning from the age of 10. And there’s a junior division for the under 21’s. But, the most prestigious competition is the heavyweight (anyone over 88 kg in weight) and this is considered the Blue Ribbon event!

Festivities and feasts

It all culminates with the feast of St Louis (the patron saint of Sète). A carnival lasting several days is held in mid to late August which bears the grandiose title of ‘World Championship’. Jousts are well attended and it’s best to book a seat on the temporary stands to get a good view. Or better still watch from a table at one of the many restaurants which line the sides of the Royal Canal. The finest seafood, local wine and unmatched entertainment – it’s a pretty unbeatable combination.

Sète however is far more than just ‘world headquarters’ for water jousting, it has an extremely pretty marina and busy port. There are wonderful sandy beaches which run all along the coast and the weather is usually so mild eating Christmas lunch outside is not unknown!

And it’s well connected too for in 1839 the Montpellier-Séte railway was opened, connecting the port to the ancient city just 10 kms inland.

Discover Montpellier

Montpellier is home to one of the oldest universities in the world as well as the oldest medical school still in operation. Past alumnae include Petrarch, Rabelais and Nostradamus.

Montpellier remains a leading university town – it’s estimated as many as a third of its residents are students and it has a rich cultural life dating back centuries. The city was called Monspessulanus by the Romans. It survived Cathars and wars of religion, and became part of Aragon when Marie of Montpellier brought the city with her as part of her dowry when she married Peter II of Aragon. It became a major economic centre and primary source for the spice trade in France. In the 14^th century Sète  passed to James III of Majorca who then sold it to the French crown to raise money for a war back in the 14^th century.

When Louis XIV made Sète the capital of Bas Languedoc, Montpellier too became ever more important and grew accordingly. Parts of its historic centre date back to this time including the Promenade de Peyrou and Esplanade. Its position on hilly ground just inland with abundance of year round sunshine and sea breezes made perfect growing conditions for the vines. This made its citizens very wealthy and they build grand houses and upgraded their living conditions – until phylloxera killed the vines off in the 1890s. Modern grafting methods have overcome the vine disease and today the city is once more surrounded by vineyards and garrigue (Mediterranean scrubland).

The local area

All around in the hills of the Hérault there are charming villages and small market towns. Marseillan at the south of the Étang de Thau, the point where the Canal du Midi joins the salt waters of the Mediterranean, is home to the sweet vermouth Noilly Prat. Along the coast, ancient fisherman’s cottages have been converted into seaside des res and summer villas dot the landscape. In villages there are old townhouses clustered around squares. And in the countryside there are old villas and winegrowers’ homes. It’s an enchanting area and with its simpler way of life, some even call this the true South of France!

Joanna Leggett is marketing director at Leggett Immobilier – you can view the full portfolio of properties for sale in Herault at: frenchestatagents.com

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Provence Movers  are the experts when it comes to removals to and from France, from anywhere in the world. As part of the renowned international ClickMoves group, Provence Movers has access to the global resources of one of the world’s most trusted international removals networks and the expertise and resources to move you to any country across the globe.

Expert removals to France

Provence Movers have experienced, highly trained international packers to ensure that packing and loading takes place correctly. With coordination centres in London and Provence they keep you informed all the way through your door to door overseas move.

They take care of all the paperwork too, completing documents, fulfilling the administration requirements and ensuring that your belongings arrive just as you want them to. France has a reputation for bureaucratic processes and that’s certainly true when it comes to removals. Before moving your things to your new French home, you’ll need to create inventories of goods (including values) and fill in forms that must be presented in a timely manner to ensure you don’t have to pay extra tax and duties. Provence Movers can do all this for you.

Fast and accurate quotes

Their quotes are online based and they’ll organise a video survey at a time to suit you. With a weekly moving service which covers all areas of France you can choose your dates and wait for your precious things to be safely delivered. And there are several different services to suit your budget, from the super quick European assisted removal service to the premium service where every aspect is taken care of from packing, unpacking and re-assembly of furniture.

Ready to move when you are

And if you’re not quite ready to move into your new home, maybe you’re still searching but want to bring your goods to France – Provence Movers can provide secure storage all over France, UK, USA and anywhere in the world. Then when you find your dream home, your things are already to be moved in.

Find out more and organise a quote at: provencemovers.com

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Do you dream of running your own holiday business in France? Maybe running a gite, or a chambre d’hotes (B&B) in the sun are what you long for. Lyn Peek has been there and done that. She and her husband Graham run a successful, gorgeous B&B and luxury cottage holiday rental business in Charente Maritime, south west France. Lyn shares her top tips and experiences in 6 lessons in a guide to starting a gite business in France…

LESSON 1: IDENTIFY YOUR SKILLS AND GO FOR IT!

After 32 years working in the NHS as a Capital/Service Planner and latterly a Health Commissioner I decided to to take retirement and move to France with my husband Graham. My pension took a hit, but I wanted a new  challenge.

We had finished renovating our Edwardian House in the South East of England. It had taken us 12 years, and we loved that house but it wasn’t a tranquil area and the roads were congested. Taking our beloved Morgan out for a spin – entailed tailbacks and traffic jams

We loved France and had spent many years exploring it in our classic car  so It took just  30 minutes to decide to go with our heart and change our life forever. Too young to do nothing but relax by a swimming pool, we decided to combine our love of France with Classic Cars and organise holidays for classic car enthusiasts.

PROs:

We were serial DIYers. Both experienced project planners. We knew exactly what travelling in a 2-seater sports car with limited luggage space entailed. I had also spent the past 14 years organising trips to France for up to 20 Morgans, in my role as a Centre Secretary of the Morgan Sports Car Club.

CONs:

My French language skills only covered hotel reservations, organising visits and deciphering a menu, my husband had none at all! We decided it would be an adventure. If it all went wrong, we would sell up and return to a sleepy village in the English countryside.

LESSON 2: THE PROPERTY SEARCH

You need to research the area you are thinking of living in really well to make sure it’s appropriate for the business you want to run.

Having explored the whole of France over many years,  we decided that the Charente Maritime/Charente departments would be ideal. It’s the second sunniest region in France. And there’s plenty for visitors to see and do. La Rochellle, Poitiers and Bordeaux airports are close by. The fast train service TGV stops at  Angouleme. St Malo ferry port is just 4.5 hrs drive away and the motorway links are excellent.

Know what you want

Our dream was of glugging a glass of Pineau or Cognac with the neighbours. Dancing at the local fete. Sitting in the garden and hearing nothing but birds and the occasional tractor. Eating a croissant still warm from the boulangerie. That meant searching for a home in a small village, and not being isolated in the countryside. We craved peace and quiet and a property which would give us, and our guests privacy and space.

With high summer temperatures we knew we wanted a swimming pool (or space for one) for guests. We didn’t like leaving our classic car in unsecured parking in France, so why would our guests? A gated property, with lots of parking space and outbuildings to store our classic car(s) was essential

We  set out our budget including renovation costs. The immobilier who found us our  house completely understood what we wanted and took us to view a property in La Tacherie. It’s a little hamlet surrounded by vineyards, but just 5 minutes from the bustling market town of Matha and 20 minutes from historic Cognac.

We walked down the drive on a grey October day in the rain – and fell in love.

LESSON 3: DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE WORK INVOLVED!

La Rose des Vents is a former 19^th century Cognac Domaine, set in 2.5 acres, surrounded by vineyards it once owned. To describe it as “tired and in need of some redecoration” was an understatement.

In the Manor House the kitchen consisted  solely of an old butler sink and a tiled worktop made out of a pine door. The walls of the downstairs loo were papered with old newspapers and all the sanitaryware  in the house was circa 1920. The bedrooms had floral wallpaper from the 50s, and the boiler screened by an old garden fence was in a back kitchen complete with earth floor. But the spacious rooms, original tomettes and wooden floors, sweeping walnut staircase, south facing windows, and gorgeous fireplaces charmed us. The walled gardens had 3 sets of monumental iron gates and the missing slate roof on the stone pigeonnier was covered in a tarpaulin. Being a former Cognac domaine it had outbuildings galore, used to store the huge barrels of amber liquid.

As for the two gites – I wouldn’t wish my worst enemies to stay in them as they were.

Look for the potential

The former estate managers house comprised a kitchen, downstairs bathroom, sitting room and ground floor bedroom. Access to the first floor with its window openings and shutters (but no windows) was via the adjacent workshop. But, it had a walled courtyard with a pigeonnier and secret door leading into the old orchard where a new pool had been installed.

The large stable had been converted some years previously into a Brocante shop selling antiques and collectables, and part of the building had been converted into a gite. Well, it had a sitting room which housed the fridge, as the kitchen was only 2 metres square and only had space for the sink, cooker and a shelf. You had to squeeze through the door into the bathroom with a sit-up tub. However the sitting room had two sets of French windows, one of which overlooked a lily pond and the other a sizeable walled garden. An open plan staircase led to an enormous mezzanine bedroom, which in turn opened into a large twin bedroom. And there was plenty of room to extend

All our friends thought we were mad.

LESSON 4: DON’T TAKE YOUR EYE OFF THE BALL (NOT FOR A SECOND)

I drew up plans on how we wanted to extend the gites.  We met the mayor, confirmed our planning approval, sourced a local builder and placed an advert. We were determined to  open Rose Cottage and Manor Cottage within 6 months. It would keep us focused!

It wasn’t all smooth going with a builder who set a slow pace and we had to work round the clock to be ready in time for the first guests arrival. Graham was screwing the last toilet roll holder on the wall as they turned into the drive. We had been so busy with getting the accommodation ready, we forgot about the swimming pool. In 30 degrees heat, with the summer cover on, the water had turned a luminous shade of green. I am surprised our marriage survived.

LESSON 5: FORMS, FORMS AND MORE FORMS

Keep your cool, there are enough forms issued by different government departments to sink a battleship. Inspections must be arranged to achieve the valued 4 stars from the Tourist Office.

Top tip: Make sure you have a good filing cabinet. Keep every bill, document and letter forever. You can seriously loose the will to live dealing with French bureaucracy.

LESSON 6: IDENTIFY YOUR “UNIQUE SELLING POINT”

There are masses of beautiful gites, villas and holiday cottages in France – the competition is fierce. You have to be organised, like people, be practical and creative. And you must keep the accommodation/pool/gardens in tip top condition – all the time.

It’s good to have a niche. Our passion is classic cars, and we target this market. We organise bespoke tours for small groups, overnight B & B stays and 5 day mini-breaks as well as self-catering cottages. But we also welcome families who come on holiday to relax and explore the area.

Think about what you really enjoy doing. If you can, build your business around it.

Success!

We have now been happily settled in France for several years. Life here is marvellous, the area is beautiful whatever the season, events are held throughout the year and after all these years we are still excited to discover new places to visit and gorgeous  restaurants.  We have welcomed people from all over the world to La Rose des Vents and have made good friends  here. Along the way I have learned to speak French, paint water colours, dance “Le Roc”, cook with a TV chef and adopted various stray cats.

Would we do it again? YES without a doubt. It’s the best thing we’ve ever done.

By Lyn Peek: www.cottagesandclassics.com

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France has huge allure for movie producers, let alone actors lucky enough to film here says Joanna Leggett…

Seduced by wonderful architecture, beautiful cities and towns, glorious and wonderful light, France provides the perfect movie location. Add in the glorious golden light of Provence. Seascapes perfect for Bond girls.Mountains for feats of bravado and derring-do. Châteaux providing the most romantic of setting. France deserves its own billing!

Then there’s the food – and wine – that every film shot in France seems to focus upon at some stage. The 100 foot Journey with Helen Mirren shot in Saint-Antonine-Noble-Val, Midi Pyrénées, was all about cuisine and a restaurateur’s quest for an elusive second Michelin star!

Perhaps the attraction of France as a movie location came when French films started to be shown overseas in the 50’s and 60’s. I mean just look what Brigitte Bardot did for St Tropez in 1956 with And God created Woman. In 1964, Les Parapluies de Cherbourg (filmed in Normandy) launched the career of Catherine Deneuve with her luminous beauty, and was nominated for 5 Academy Awards in the USA.

Iconic films featuring Paris

Audrey Hepburn enchanted us in several movies, including the iconic Charade – a love story set in Paris featuring Cary Grant. Her stunning apartment, beside the Parc Monceau, is actually a museum. The Jardins des Champs Elysées and the Palais Royale also feature. As well as a bateau mouche along the Seine by night. It’s the perfect introduction to this wonderful city – with timeless Givenchy couture to boot.

In the wonderfully quirky Amélie with Audrey Tatou, Paris, and Montmartre in particular, was almost a character in its own right. La Vie en Rose included a visit to Edith Piaf’s favourite restaurant, Julien, an Art Nouveau brasserie in the 10^th arrondissement. And, while we’re talking Parisian bistros, La Renaissance in the 18^th has featured in almost a dozen films. The list includes Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds as well as Stuntwoman starring the late, great, Jean Paul Belmondo.

Then there’s Le Grand Vefour restaurant in rue du Beaujolais, where time seems to have been suspended since the 19^th century. It’s been frequented by everyone from Bonaparte to Coco Chanel. It played its part in the film Coco before Chanel as well as in Midnight in Paris, which spotlights a veritable smorgasbord of gorgeous Paris locations.

Time for Action!

Time to move south to Marseille. Perhaps first put on the entertainment map by Alexandre Dumas who set the Count of Monte Cristo in the Château d’If, on a rocky island off the coast. In 1971, Marseille was the location for The French Connection starring Gene Hackman. A few years later, also speeding through Marseille’s streets, was Luc Besson’s action comedy Taxi, where a pizza delivery boy raced around with reckless abandon! And in Love Actually, Le Bar de la Marine in Marseille is where Colin Firth’s character proposes to Aurelia.

Meanwhile the world’s favourite spy 007 had many visits to France. Sean Connery’s Bond visited Cap d’Antibes during Diamonds are Forever. Various locations along the French Riviera have featured. Who can forget the motorcycle chase between Bond and the SPECTRE baddies with stunning scenery courtesy of Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Other Bond locations include the magnificent chateau at Vaux le Victome (just an hour south of Paris) in Moonraker. He also visited the stables at Chantilly. Moving on a few years Pierce Brosnan got up to all sorts of hair raising tricks along the Riviera. Then he dodged real life avalanches during extreme skiing in Argentière near Chamonix. Connery, a confirmed Francophile, even bought a magnificent villa overlooking Nice!

The south of France in film

Long after the book A Year in Provence first enticed readers to the joys of southern France, echoes of Peter Mayle’s prose linger. One of his later books was the basis of A Good Year filmed in the Luberon close to where Mayle and director, Ridley Scott, had homes. Locations included the Château la Canorgue in Bonnieux, Cucuron and Gordes where Russell Crowe waited at table.

Hugh Jackman trekked to freedom in Les Miserables around the beautiful village of Gourdon. Those incredible views out to the Med!

After Pride and Prejudice many women waited a long time for Colin Firth to dive into another lake. He did – in the Var, just outside Vadauban, for Love Actually. However one of the more memorable films made around here must be Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief. It starred Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, who met her Prince in the south of France while attending the Cannes Film Festival. The famous film fest is a chance for the great, the good and many wannabe’s to hobnob and promote their offerings each May.

5 stunning locations which have featured in famous films and where you may find your dream home:

Ridley Scott’s first film Les Duellistes, was shot in Dordogne, in particular between Les Eyzies and the beautiful medieval town of Sarlat. Homes for sale in Dordogne

Brittany: Back in the ‘50’s Monsieur Houlot (aka Jacques Tati) famously dipped his toes in the sea on the coast of Morbihan. Meanwhile Kirk Douglas flexed his muscles in the Vikings at Fort la Latte, Cap Frehel Cotes d’Armor. Homes for sale Brittany.

Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster Dunkirk was filmed largely on location on the beaches of Dunkirk in Nord-Pas-de-Calais. The closest area to the UK, separated by just 21 miles of English Channel, Pas-de-Calais offers the quintessential French lifestyle. Homes for sale Pas-de-Calais

Good enough for Bond: Chamonix in Haute-Savoie is close to where The World Is Not Enough was filmed. This area really does have star quality. Homes for sale in Haute-Savoie.

Chocolat, the deliciously romantic film based on Joanne Harris’s book of the same name featured Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, Cote d’Or, in Burgundy. And though the chocolate shop doesn’t exist in real life, the area offers a sweet taste of the good life in France… Homes for sale in Burgundy

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There’s lots to fall in love with in France – baguettes, wine, cheese, the Eiffel Tower… and bedding! Given that the average person spends 8 hours a day in bed – a third of your life – then good bedding is a must. And great bedding is something that everyone should treat themselves to. I don’t mean expensive. I do mean great, luxury, affordable, long-lasting and feels as good after every wash as it did the first time you used it, and – sustainably produced. It’s a tall order. But in France there’s a company that meets and surpasses expectations. And their bedding is perfect for holiday homeowners who want to give their guests a good night’s sleep and make them feel pampered.

Luxury bedding that’s just perfect for hotels and holiday homeowners

A while back I stayed at a luxury gite in Nice and I know it might seem weird but alongside loving the Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town, I had the best night’s sleep and fell in love with the sheets. They were cool, felt super-luxurious and were so comfy. I asked the gite owner where she got them from and was told Paris La Chambre and the owner said that since she’d found them, she would never go anywhere else.

Well, I looked them up and ordered a sheet, duvet cover and pillowcases in their linen range. Everything arrived in reusable bags. It is ultra-soft, thermoregulating, seriously comfy and feels like you’re staying in a top hotel. And it doesn’t matter how many times I wash the linen, it’s like new every time. I also got some of their cotton Percale bedding, which is incredibly light and feels crispy new whenever I wash it. I don’t run a hotel, gite or B&B but I love a little bit of luxury!

In fact Paris la Chambre, the company who produce the bedding are so confident that you’ll love their stuff, that they give you a 90-day try-sleep-wash guarantee or your money back.

Run by British-born Ian and American-born Alison – Paris la Chambre is entente-cordiale at its best – stylish, elegant, comfortable, affordable and clever! They cut out the middleman to keep the price low, use eco-sustainable production methods and plant 10 trees for every order they receive.

And for hotels and holiday homeowners, they make you an offer you can’t refuse! Preferential rates, free deliveries in France, payment in instalments and personalised support.

Find out more about Paris La Chambre’s hotel and holiday home bedding programme

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If you’re dreaming of moving to France and you’re not sure where to go, consider Charente! Located in the southwest France, it’s part of the super region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, which was formed in January 2016 when the previously single regions of Aquitaine, Limousin and Poitou-Charentes joined together. The area is named after the Charente River. It’s a land of forests and rolling hills, verdant vineyards, historic villages and waterways. It’s also one of the sunniest parts of France with around 25% more sunshine hours than the UK.

Discover Charente

Angouleme

There are three main towns in Charente, the biggest being the department capital Angoulême. From its hill side perch it borders Dordogne and is famous for its annual International Comics Festival. It’s not a big city, with a population of around 42,000, but there is an impressive range of shops, excellent restaurants and bars. There are also several museums, including the enormous Musée de la Bande Dessinée. It’s dedicated to all things comics and cartoons, plus there’s an extraordinary art installation by contemporary artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, known as the Trésor de la Cathédrale at Angoulême Cathedral.

Cognac

The second main town, Cognac, attracts the most visitors to the department, thanks to the production of the double-distilled eau-de-vie to which it gives its name. The medieval quarter is criss-crossed with winding narrow cobbled streets and ancient buildings. There are plenty of shops and restaurants and people from towns all around flock here for shopping and the Tuesday-Saturday market in the covered halls, though the most popular market in the area is just over the border in Charente-Maritime at Saintes, famous for its Roman ruins.

Café and shop lined Place Francois Premier is the heart of Cognac. The French King in whose honour the square is named, was born just a few hundred metres away in a chateau on the edge of the Charente River, now home to Baron Otard Cognac.

There is a newly renovated attractive harbour area, several museums and the annual Blues Festival is a key event.

Confolens

Finally Confolens (top photo), which borders Limousin, is a sleepy “City of Art and History”. The medieval town nestles in a largely rural district, with an emerging tourist market.

What to love about living in Charente

Throughout the department, night markets, festivals, brocantes (flea markets) and antique markets are a regular feature in summer months. It’s a great area for walking and cycling with a dedicated 290km path along the Charente River called “Flow Velo”. The route runs from Dordogne to the Ile d’Aix and the 110km Charente section takes in major towns as well as dozens of pretty villages, such as Bourg-Charente, Saint-Simon and Bassac, which pepper the river banks like a luscious dot to dot.

Wine – and slippers!

Charente is speckled with vineyards, the most prestigious are in Grand Champagne (no relation to the area of Champagne in the north). Cognac is the most famous product of the department; surprisingly 98% of production is exported, though that’s not to say the locals don’t enjoy a drop. Each July there’s a 3-day Fête du Cognac with plenty of tasting opportunities, gastronomic specialities, music and dancing.

Though not as celebrated as Bordeaux, Charente’s vines produce fine wines (red, white and rosé), as well as local favourite, Pineau des Charentes, a sweet aperitif.

The area is also famous for its production of slippers called Charentaise. Originating in the 17^th century they were made from leftover material used for Louis XIV’s French Royal Navy uniforms and felt from the paper mills of Angoulême. They’re still popular, especially the tartan designs.

Despite its many charms, most tourists head for the Atlantic coast beaches of neighbouring department Charente-Maritime leaving Charente appealingly quiet by comparison.

Why live in Charente?

Charente is served by excellent motorways with easy access from the ports of Brittany and Normandy and it is around seven hours’ drive from the port of Calais. Closest airport La Rochelle offers flights to the UK and Europe, as do Bordeaux-Merignac and Poitiers airports a little further afield. Trains stop at several towns and the fast track LGV service connects Angoulême to Paris in just 1.5 hours.

For property buyers Charente really does offer excellent value, property prices are stable and suit all budgets with a wide variety of styles from rustic properties to city townhouses and apartments and for British buyers in particular, prices seem positively cheap in comparison to the UK.  Property prices in Charente-Maritime cost almost twice as much on average.

According to data from INSEE, the National Statistics Agency of France, some 148,000 Brits are officially registered as living in France (post Brexit). More than a quarter of them live in Nouvelle Aquitaine. And Charente is the third most popular department (after Ile de France (Paris) and Dordogne).

Expats in Charente

Amy Pasquet from Virginia, USA, is married to French Cognac producer Jean of www.cognac-pasquet.com. They live with their young children in Baignes-Sainte-Radegonde, Grand Champagne. “I love that Charente is not very touristy. It still seems off the beaten path. We are able to walk everywhere in the village, to the school, boulangeries, shops and the market. The vineyards and landscape are lovely. The pace of life is not frenetic, but I can get to the centre of Bordeaux in just 45 minutes from here”.

Charente used to be a honey pot for second home owners. However in recent years it’s become just as popular with younger expats.

The sort of place you never leave

Nicki and Richard Waldeck arrived in Charente from Brighton in 2004 for “a year off” but never left. Nicki, says “Charente is a great place to live with friendly people who are welcoming of expats”. They first live in the village of Courbillac, 20 minutes from Cognac and Jarnac. The latter was the birthplace of former President Francois Mitterand and home to Cognac producer Couvoisier, Napoleon’s favourite eau-de-vie. The couple were lured by the facilities combined with a tranquil country lifestyle. “When our sons hit their teens, we decided we needed somewhere that wasn’t too rural. This area is perfect for all of us” says Nicki.

A large proportion of the British expat population in the region are retired or classified “inactive” according to INSEE, the National Statistics Agency in France. But this couple are busy running their property management business Charente Assistance (www.charenteassistance.fr) providing home and garden maintenance services.

“We fell in love with Jarnac for its bridge over the River Charente. And the Courvoisier chateau which dominates the main square. On our days off, it’s a great place to have lunch, relax, catch up with friends and watch the world go by. There is a calm but historic feel to Jarnac. It doesn’t feel too touristy. But at the same time it has that buzz that happy holiday makers bring. It’s just so French!”

Where to buy in Charente

The couple are typical of British buyers who tend to look for properties in the surrounding villages rather than in the centre of Charente’s towns. With 404 communes in the department – there’s a lot of choice. Charentaise style houses are always popular. These traditional stone properties often have coveted features such as exposed beams and an enclosed courtyard to the front.

Small towns such as Ruffec, less than 30 miles from Angoulême, with its vieux-quartier (old town) and a good choice of shops and restaurants plus train service, are popular. If you’re after a bargain this area has much to offer. There are charming villages and hamlets sprinkled throughout a landscape of vineyards and natural beauty spots. In the area around Ruffec pretty little towns such as Verteuil-sur-Charente with its 10^th century chateau, Villefagnan and Nanteuil-en-Vallée offer potential for properties at a good price. Ideal for those who want to establish a base in a good area of France at a low price.

Aubeterre-sur-Dronne in the south of the department is another favourite with expats and officially one of the most beautiful villages in France. The prices are higher here and in the summer months it can get very crowded.

Agent feedback

Louise King, local agent for Leggett Immobilier (www.frenchestateagents.com), has lived in Charente for 12 years. “I chose this area for the fantastic weather. Plus it’s an easy drive to the beaches. And there are particularly good travel connections for the UK”. Louise says that as her children were young at the time, it was important to have facilities year-round for them, whilst ensuring an unhurried country lifestyle.

“This area is excellent for retirees, families and holiday home owners. There’s lots to do, even in Winter which is important to consider. There are plenty of bargains but prices are predicted to rise because fast connecting trains to Paris are expected to increase the attraction for French second home owners. Charente offers the best of southwest of France. Great weather and laid-back pace of life – combined with great value property prices. All in all, it’s perfect”.

Property for sale in Charente

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Benefitting from historically low mortgage rates and with a wide choice of properties to choose from, it’s no wonder that so many home buyers are looking at the spectacular value that Central France offers says Leggett Immobillier’s Area Co-ordinator Kevin Andrews.

There are glorious châteaux, sumptuous country estates and swanky ski chalets. And you’ll find some of the lowest priced, best value, property in France.

Much of this area is rural France at its best. With unspoiled views, peaceful towns and villages, where “local produce” means that the person selling the fruit and veg probably dug it up or picked it that morning.

Ignoring the newly created map of France, we’re labelling central France as the four traditional regions of Centre, Limousin, Auvergne and Burgundy. Each of them has a very different landscape and “feel” but all share the common traits of beautiful countryside, friendly locals, historic towns and great value.

CENTRE

Centre is renowned for having the most beautiful collection of historic châteaux in the world. Scattered along the lovely river Loire they seem to dominate the landscape and provide a stunning backdrop to the countryside. The popular towns of Orléans and Tours are welcoming, pretty and packed full of historic buildings. Buy a house within striking distance of either and you’ll never be short of something to do on a rainy day.

LIMOUSIN

Limousin has been my home for many years. I moved across with my family and we saw our quality of life sky-rocket. We are surrounded by clean air, open spaces and delicious food.

The region is best known to holidaymakers for its outdoor pursuits. There’s a proliferation of rivers flowing through the area, as well as numerous springs and lakes. Cycling, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing are very popular such as at Lac Vassivière. It’s  a man-made lake of 1000 hectares where you can swim and do all manner of water sports. There are also walking trails and boat rides to a central island with a sculpture park, café and museum. Summers here are long and hot.

This is the least populated region in mainland France, though that doesn’t mean there’s not plenty to do year-round. A roll-out of high speed fibre optic in Limousin as well as Government support for the area to be rejuvenated as a potential tech centre has seen both second and permanent home status rocket in the last two years. The properties available here are simply remarkable value for money. The average house price in my department – Haute Vienne, which is home to the city of Limoges, is €121,500. While in the neighbouring Creuse they are just €80,000!

BURGUNDY

Burgundy is the place to explore if you like vineyards, rolling hills and exceptional food. The locals are proud of the wide choice of incredible wine they can choose from. Much of it comes from little known vineyards, off the beaten track. Local agent knowledge about where to live is the key here as it’s such a diverse area. Without that expertise you could miss out on discovering the most popular villages, where to get the best wine and which markets offer the freshest produce. If you enjoy the finer things in life you’ll love Burgundy.

AUVERGNE

Auvergne has the most dramatic landscape of all the regions. It’s a land of dormant volcanoes, hulking mountain ranges and bustling towns and cities. If you like the outdoor life then this region has to be on your shortlist. Hiking, biking, skiing, snow-boarding and jumping off the side of a mountain in a wing suit are just some of the madcap things on offer. And, if you like being close to a ski-lift but find the prices in the Alps or Pyrénées a little heady, then take a look in the Auvergne.

Mont Dore ski resort at the foot of Puy de Sancy is ideal for beginners, intermediates and families. The resort has a connection to Besse ski resort.  A Spa town with traditional restaurants, shops, ice skating rink, bowling alley, casino and cinema. Equally as busy with summer activities and music festivals. It’s ideal for permanent residence, a holiday home or just a rental investment with almost all year round rental potential.”

The average house price in the Puy de Dome is just €160,000.

Find out more properties in the Auvergne: www.frenchestateagents.com/auvergne/

(Dated 2022)

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If you’re dreaming of your place in the Provence sun, you’ll find there’s a lot of choice From luxury villas to fabulous apartments as well as surprisingly affordable property in the area. We talk to Patrick Joseph of My French House property agency about where to look for your dream home in the French Riviera.

French Riviera / Cote d’Azur

 The French Riviera or Cote d’Azur is the coastal area in the southeast of France. It runs from the edge of the Italian border where you find vibrant Menton and swanky Monaco at one end of the Alpes Maritime department. Then it makes its way round to Toulon and Hyères in the Var department.

With an average of 14 hours of sunshine per day In summer in 9 hours in the winter, it’s easy to understand why this area is so popular.

The Var

 
The Var is the French department that covers the western side of the French Riviera, where St Tropez is located. Inland from the coast is a large area of Provencal countryside, which unlike the area inland from Nice, is not limited by the Alps. There are some real gems in this area.

‘Draguignan for instance is a large market town in Provence that sits inland. It’s surrounded by the glamour of the Cote d’Azur, the beauty of the Verdon Gorges and the famous scent of the lavender fields of Valensole. The local villages of Cotignac and Fayence are filled with a unique blend of French and international locals who live here all year round. Residents enjoy weekly markets and excellent restaurants. And it’s just a short drive from the neighbouring thriving cities’ says Patrick. And Lorgues which is perfect for nature lovers. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, a lively, local town with easy access to the coast and Nice airport.

Towards the coast, Sainte-Maxime, overlooks the gulf of St Tropez. It has a lively, chic, family atmosphere and is a stunning town facing the bay which is always busy with magnificent boats. The charming resort of Cavalière between Hyeres and St Tropez is close to the wilder beaches of the Var.

‘You get a lot for your money in the Haut Var area’ says Patrick. ‘You’re away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist bases and it’s also slightly cooler in the summer months

‘For those seeking beach life, golf fun and great facilities, Roquebrune-sur-Argens is ideal. From here you have easy access to a choice of beaches between Frejus and Sainte-Maxime. ‘Le Lavandou is another great place for those seeking the beach life’ Patrick advises. ‘There are palm, eucalyptus and mimosa trees and 12 fine sandy beaches. It’s a little piece of tropical paradise in the south of France.’

Alpes Maritime

 The department of Alpes-Maritimes includes well-known resorts like Nice, Cannes, Antibes and Menton. The area is known for its luxury lifestyle and coastal towns but there’s more to the area than the Riviera. Inland there are valleys, vineyards and olive groves. Hill top villages have wonderful views and offer a less busy lifestyle than their glamorous city neighbours.

‘There are also many other smaller resorts such as exquisite Eze with views to Monaco. And for those looking to be almost “les pieds dans l’eau” and closer to water, the areas of Roquebrune-cap-martin, Saint-jean-cap-ferrat, Villefranche-sur-mer offer fantastic apartments and luxury villas’ says Patrick.

At My French House, Patrick Joseph and his team will provide expert local knowledge, and  a service to help you find your dream home with support from start to finish.  From the search to signing on the dotted line, they’ll help with every aspect of buying in France.

Contact their friendly, professional team at: my-french-house.com

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Saone-et-Loire, department 71, is in Burgundy, central  France. Named after the Rivers Saone and Loire, it’s a land of charming villages, historic towns and castles such as the fairy tale Chateau de Sully whose courtyard was reputed to be the most beautiful in all of France. In fact there are 190 castles, 25 Romanesque churches, around 100 museums and several caves. There are miles and miles of vineyards, the largest natural park in France, lakes and forests. Bresse in Saone-et-Loire is famous for its poultry production. It’s a land of farmers and wine makers, with an impressive 37 AOP (protected designation of origin) and AOC products. It’s an area that’s synynomous with great food, and its unspoiled and uncrowded.

With good weather and great transport links, Paris is just 1h35m from Macon the principal town, and Lyon airport is one hour by car, Saone-et-Loire is a great place to live.

We talk to Greet Caeyers about life and property in the department. Originally from Belgium she has lived in Saone-et-Loire for 15 years and is a local property agent for Leggett Immobillier.

What’s it like to live in Saone-et-Loire?

When it comes to Burgundy, people think about the wine and the chateaux. But there is so much more to explore. The history and culture of the area are wonderful and the people are friendly. A week after my husband Eddy and I arrived here the Mayor introduced us to everyone at a get-together at the town hall. We’ve been made so welcome and we participate in all the activities from walking to planting flowers in communal areas and streets. I have been a member of the conseil municipale for several years. It’s a very small village with just 180 people, but with a very active community. People look after each other and take care of each other here. And I love that.

We live in an area that is known for its cattle – Charolais beef is amongst the best in the world. The landscape is very lovely. Lush and green with lots of wide open space. And there are lovely old farmhouses with big barns.

We bought a rather run down hotel-restaurant which had been closed for a few years. We renovated it and opened a chambres d’hotes and restaurant.

What is great about where you live in Saone et Loire?

We live in Cressy-sur-Somme. Our village is situated 10km from “le Morvan”, the biggest nature reserve in France. There are five castles in the village, beautiful houses, and we’re surrounded by glorious countryside. Everything is close by, from supermarkets to sports clubs, doctors, cinema, banks, boulangeries and even a thermal spa!

We used to follow our cousin Tom Boonen, a former green jersey winner in the Tour de France. For five years we followed him with our camper van through all of France. So we have seen a lot of this beautiful country. But it was the hills of Burgundy that made the biggest impression on us. The landscape is so beautiful, there is practically no industry in this area, and there are more cows than people! And the weather is good. Soft winters and lovely warm summers. We rented a holiday house in Charolles for 10 days in 2002. My mother still tells me now that when I got back after that holiday she saw something in my eyes when I talked about the area. I loved the green hills.

No matter how long I have lived here I am still constantly amazed by how beautiful this area is.

Expert property guide to Saone-et-Loire

People usually look for big farmhouses with a large plot of land and some barns. Some of them want to keep animals, others want to change the barns into guest houses and start a Chambres d’hotes. But also small village houses are popular where the property prices are lower than in the towns and cities.

Prices have been rising over the last couple of years but property prices here in Saone-et-Loire are still really competitive.

Some of the most well known areas for property seekers include Bourbon-Lancy, Autun – famous for its architecture and 12th century cathedral, Charolles, Paray-le-Monial, Digoin, Luzy, Cluny where the 12th century Abbey was once the largest in the world and Montceau-les-mines.

The Saone-et-Loire lifestyle

There are 565 muncipalities in Saone-et-Loire, more than 80% have less than 1000 inhabitants.

It’s an area that’s brilliant for lovers of the great outdoors, there are cycle and hiking routes galore, water sports, horse riding (the department is known for its tradition of horse breeding), and golf. There’s lots to do for families including a zoo, amusement Parc des Combes and a nature leisure park where you can spend a night in a spaceship!

There are cultural events year round from the performing arts to sound and light shows and music festivals.

And if you’re a wine lover, you’ll be in heaven here. The vineyards of Maranches, Couchois, Côte Chalonnaise, Mâconnais and Beaujolais constitute the largest Burgundy vineyard.

A perfect blend of urban and countryside means that living here provides all the facilities needed for the good life – in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Top tips: Though a great view might be top of your list, not all properties have a panoramic view – but don’t discount them. Many properties offer something else, we have a little river running through our garden for instance, but no view. If you’re looking in mountainous areas, great views for sure, but often it can be colder and windy.

If you want to use your garden for a swimming pool, games area for kids etc, a flat piece of land will be better. And, when you look for houses in an area with a lot of mountains and woods with high trees, make sure that the sun can reach your land and house. Sometimes you end up staying in the shadows all day.

See Leggett’s properties for sale in Saone-et-Loire

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Morbihan is one of the four departments of the Brittany region. It takes its name from the Golfe du Morbihan, an inner sea, where a great nautical festival is held every four years. The prefecture of Morbihan is Vannes, Lorient and Pontivy are sub-prefectures. The Interceltique festival, which is held every summer in Lorient, is one of the busiest festivals in Europe.

The department is becoming increasingly popular as a place to live with the population increasing by around 0.5% each year over the last few years (circa 751,000 residents 2021).

Nigel Bealing an agent for Leggett Immobillier who lives and works in Morbihan says with 250 municipalities in the department, the choice of property is varied and with coast and country life on offer – you’ll find the best of both worlds:

Buying a home near the sea might be out of reach for your budget but in Morbihan, you might find a great compromise by seeking a property in a small village or town with local shops and services, in the countryside. And at less than half hours’ drive from the coast, you can still have the seaside lifestyle

Questembert and surrounding area

For instance, the popular market town of Questembert (population approx. 8500) is a great option. It’s surrounded by pretty little villages and it’s just 25 to 30 minutes to the coast as well as to the historic city of Vannes and the Golfe du Morbihan.

Questembert is a small and friendly Breton town with excellent amenities and facilities for day to day living. It has a cinema, municipal swimming pool, doctors’ surgery, vets, dentists, schools, supermarkets and even a train station serving Vannes, Rennes and beyond.

Neighbouring villages Malansac, Caden, Peaule, Berric and Limerzel have traditionally been popular with UK and international second home buyers for many years and all have local shops and services.

Country villages near the coast of Morbihan

But drive on just a few minutes further and you’ll find an abundance of unspoiled attractive hamlets. For instance to the south is Noyal Muzillac which has a bakery and pharmacy. The town of Muzillac is literally just minutes from the local beaches where properties command top prices plus there’s easy road access to Vannes and Nantes. The villages of Penestin, Billiers, Ambon and Damgan are also close to the beaches.

Property in Morbihan

Since 2020, demand for countryside and ‘rural near to village properties’ in Morbihan, and indeed Brittany as a whole, has outstripped supply with more French and international buyers keen on the area. Correctly priced properties are now often selling within days of going on the market. When you’re a buyer at a distance it can be frustrating. Things have moved on technologically which make it easier if this affects you – we can take you for a tour by WhatsApp for instance, take videos, multiple photos, even drone film to save you time.

The good news is that there are properties available to suit most budgets. We have 2-3 bedroom semi-detached stone cottages in good condition for sale from 125,000 euros in villages, though the nearer to the coast you are, the more the price increases.

More often than not, the trick to finding your dream home in Morbihan at the right price, is knowing where to look and having that local knowledge that reveals hidden gems that tick all your boxes.

See Nigel’s portfolio of properties in Morbihan

Property guide to Morbihan

Guide to Morbihan

5 minute guide to Brittany

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