France

What is a voie Verte?

What is a voie Verte?

The voie vertes are a network of “green” routes suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, importantly traffic-free. The criss-cross across France usually following converted old railway lines, sometimes combined with sections of dedicated cycle-paths or footways. A relatively up-to-date map is shown here on the official af3v website. We are lucky enough to have…

Puivert aerodrome covered in snow with two children playing in the distance.
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Choosing a Cost-efficient House for Winter in the South Of France

When we first had the idea to move here permanently it was 28 degrees, a very warm evening in early autumn. We were sitting on a sunny terrace looking across a quiet valley with the sun just starting to set in the distance. The classic holiday promo shot. We really weren’t thinking about winter at…

3 Things you Need to Know before moving to (Rural) France

3 Things you Need to Know before moving to (Rural) France

We’re 6 years into our move. Personally I still feel very much like a visitor – an “etranger”. While my French ability has improved there is rarely a day when I’m not introduced to some cultural difference that would never have occurred to me before relocating. Don’t get me wrong: I totally love the French…

What is “La Canicule”?

What is “La Canicule”?

Anyone traveling to, within or living in France will be well aware that this week we’re in the midst of another canicule – but what is it? In short, a canicule is something along the lines of what English speakers usually refer to ask a “heat wave”, however to be defined as a canicule these…

How to Survive the French Summer Holiday with Small Children
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How to Survive the French Summer Holiday with Small Children

It’s “les grandes vacances”! A time when much of France draws to a standstill, unless you’re in a tourist area, in which case the place will be rammed and, if it’s anything like here, will burst into life. All good if you’re on holiday or retired but if you’re a family of four with zero…

Covid-friendly Locations in the South of France: Swimming Lakes
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Covid-friendly Locations in the South of France: Swimming Lakes

Ah, 2020. Who knew come the holidays we’d still be living our own version of confinement! Obviously lots of people are travelling and there are tourists everywhere. While there is an increase in people locally I would say it’s mostly holiday home owners; the numbers are down, which is good news for those of us…