Le Cuvage’ is one of the best holiday rental opportunities in the Roannais, Rhône-Alpes, and a French winter break with some safe family ski-ing here is ideal. You can get the best of many worlds, with  top quality French restaurants (including the famous 3 Michelin-starred Troisgros), visits to medieval villages, and trips to France’s fantastic second city, Lyon (only an hour’s car or train journey away.)

There’s much more, of course! Not only is ‘Le Cuvage’ a great place to stay during the summer, but because of its unique situation within the Rhône-Alpes region, it is also perfect all-year-round.

Opportunities for some fun in the snow during the month’s of December, January, February, and March, in particular, abound.

‘Le Cuvage’ is only about 35 minutes from the nearest  ski-ing facilities at ‘Loge de Gardes’ in the local Madeleine Mountains. This is a superb place for some good family ski-ing or snow-boarding.

There is also an even larger ski station at the Chalmazel resort, only 45 minutes away. With ample scope for all levels of ski-ing prowess here, Chalmazel has good facilities, including restaurant and bar, and all types of ski hire available – it is an extensive, modern ski resort.

SPECIAL SKI SEASON HOLIDAY RENTAL AT LE CUVAGE

Ski-ing holidays are fully catered for at ‘Le Cuvage’ with provision for ski equipment storage, and dryers for clothing, footwear, etc. Vehicle rental can easily be organised, including the hire of equipment racks. Transport to and from the local resorts can be arranged, and a ‘pick-up and return’ service to and from regional airports or train stations can also be organised for you if necessary.

This is all part of the extensive facilities and personal service for those individuals or families holidaying at ‘Le Cuvage’ during the winter ski-ing season.

For more information please make any enquiries for our Special Ski Season holiday rental at ‘Le Cuvage’ to: info@purefrancenow.com

Le Cuvage’ was originally a very large winemaking ‘barn’ which serviced the household of the Chateau des Cresses.

This 18th century building has recently been renovated and converted into three large and magnificent, high quality homes, including a special barn conversion into ‘Le Cuvage’ Garden Apartment – all architecturally designed by a highly regarded and successful local French Architect who specialises in the renovation of ancient buildings and chateau interiors in the Roannais region.

‘Le Cuvage’ is set within the original woodland grounds of the Chateau des Cresses.

The countryside around ‘Le Cuvage’ is extensive, and the whole environment consists of woodland, hills, and farmland.

This superbly renovated and converted dwelling is situated in the French departement of the Loire in the beautiful Roannais, Rhône-Alpes, near the regions of Auvergne, Bourgogne (Burgundy), and the Beaujolais.

‘Le Cuvage’ Garden Apartment is exceptionally comfortable, stylish, characterful, and features high specification throughout. Perfect size for a family of four ! With all the amenities for a great French holiday – Winter or Summer!

The accommodation includes contemporary facilities – 2 double bedrooms, fully-equipped kitchen, dining, lounge, shower-room and toilet, laundry/utility. Private gardens with sun deck, barbeque, seating, parasols, and a large upper sun terrace overlooking the foothills of the Beaujolais, with stunning views across open countryside and farmland.

Superbly landscaped gardens surrounding ‘Le Cuvage’  include a heated swimming pool (10m x 5m) with tiled sunbathing areas. Play area for children.

Private driveway, and ample parking for over 6-8 cars

It is a special place – so try it!  You won’t be disappointed!

Rent ‘Le Cuvage’ Garden Apartment anytime during the year!  Prices from £550 (Autumn/Winter) to £650 (Spring/Summer) per week.

www.purefrancenow.com

Inspirational Gourmet Weekends

Loge de Gardes Ski-ing

Chalmazel Ski Resort

For more detailed descriptions of what to see around this beautiful part of France visit: www.uk.leroannais.com

www.purefrancenow.com

This area is called Le Roannais in the département of the Loire.

Yes, of course, many tourists and business travellers from the UK and other parts of Europe visit, or drive through the region down the famous route N7 every year.

This is exactly what they often do – drive straight through or around it without stopping and taking a ‘breath’ but they are missing a lot.

It is not, however, an isolated part of France, like many areas can be in this huge country.

The Roannais is a delightful region with beautiful countryside, forests, lakes, mountains, with the river la Loire meandering through it.

At the central hub of several more well-known regions, the Roannais is within easy access of some famous cities, towns, and villages.

Roanne is the main township with, for example, France’s second city of Lyon just over an hour’s drive or train journey away.

Vichy, with its famous spring waters, is also nearby, and Saint Etienne on the edge of the stunning, volcanic region of the Puy-de-Dôme.

Located on the banks of the river la Loire, with the lower slopes of Auvergne, Beaujolais and Bourgogne (Burgundy) forming the backdrop, the Roannais region offers French lifestyle at its very best.

It is renowned for its food, which includes the famous three-star restaurant, Maison Troisgros (a fantastic gastronomic experience if you’ve got the chance. And the money, of course).

There are also many other local, family-run restaurants which are simply sublime, and for quality, service and surroundings certainly do not break the bank.

Vineyards decorate the surrounding hillsides, with Côte Roannaise wine, made from Gamay grapes, being the local tipple. Also, the popular vineyards and succulent wines of the Beaujolais are just 45 minutes away.

There is much to see and do, from a large number of heritage sites, medieval villages, including some buildings dating from the 13th century and some Roman churches from the 10th century.

Medieval castles and renaissance country houses abound, Château de la Roche being, probably, the most romantic.

Set on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the Loire, this classic fairytale castle is stunning. Every year in August there is an incredible son et lumiere show including dramatic firework displays celebrating its medieval history.

Roanne is surrounded by the uplands known as the Monts de la Madeleine, Monts du Beaujolais and Monts du Lyonnais.

They provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Roanne Valley, and are easily accessible for hill-walking, mountain-biking, and, of course, skiing and snow-boarding during the winter months.

Due to its location near the Loire, the Roannais area is also popular for river cruising through the Loire gorges. Water sports, such as sailing, canoeing and rowing are also available.

There is plenty to do for families and children all year round. It is certainly a great place for either a holiday home, or more permanent residency.

This is a region which is developing and is becoming much more easily accessible due to new links to France’s ever-growing auto-route network.

Lyon, in particular, continues to expand, and the Roannais is becoming easier to commute between.

Most villages and townships within 25 kilometres of Lyon have seen massive increases in property prices during the last 10 years.

The Roannais is less than 70 kilometres away, and is such a prize of a place for country living but with all amenities such as shops, entertainment, schools and colleges for people wanting to live ‘the life’ whilst working and earning in the city.

There is even the possibility of a direct TGV link into Roanne in the near future. Even now, access to the TGV to Paris and Marseille, for example, is simple with easy connections to Lyon.

The ski resorts of the Alps are around three hour’s drive away, and the popular southern regions and French Riviera are within easy reach.

There are several convenient airports such as Lyon (St.Exupery), Saint Etienne, Grenoble, Chambery and Geneva.

Property opportunities abound, and with all the rapid, ongoing regional development it seems, therefore, to be a particularly good time to invest.

Such opportunities include remarkable, ancient châteaux, farmhouses, barns, and medieval village town houses either in the mountains, hillsides, or amongst the forests and rich farmland.

Prices are good. There are absolute bargains and renovation opportunities to be had.

You can pick up a large château for less than €550,000, a sizeable farmhouse for less than €150,000, or small barn or cottage, ripe for renovation, for less than €50,000.

Prices, of course, like most regions throughout France, vary a lot, and the willingness of the Roannais locals to negotiate is well known.

In the last 10 years property prices have increased throughout the Roannais region, and in the next five years, or so, property prices, despite the current economic malaise, are certainly expected to move upward further. An investment ahead of the game is well worth consideration.

It is, of course, impossible to depict the Roannais in its full glory, and define the myriad of opportunities available in this short article. You must visit, and see for yourself. It’s the only way.

If you want to know more about property opportunities in the Roannais and our ‘Property Finding Services’ please contact Brian Franklin direct at: info@purefrancenow.com or visit our dedicated website: www.purefrancenow.com

Also visit www.thisfrenchlife.com for more information about all things French, and a unique property renovation project in the Roannais at: Discovering the Roannais in the Rhône-Alpes – follow a series of editorials about a ‘Grand Design’ project by Brian and Lucy Franklin.

Purefrancenow Property Services

www.purefrancenow.com

At last! The work is over, the spending has slowed down, and the results of all our efforts can be clearly seen and appreciated.

In some respects, there is an element of anti-climax about it all.

As we neared the final stages of completing the ‘Cuvage’ renovation we, of course, could see all the elements of both interior and exterior renovation and conversion becoming a reality, and all our design and previous project control decisions working together as a whole.

Le Cuvage had eventually become a sum greater than its parts.

It was wonderful to walk up to the building and enter its doors to reveal the magnificent interior, and be pretty pleased with all our efforts.

It was a delight to spend our first holiday break within its four walls – to test out the showers for the first time, to christen the kitchen, to wake up with the newness all around us, and the sound of the Roannais countryside surrounding us.

Our first family occupation took place at Easter 2006, after myself and my good friend, Dale, had moved all furniture and houshold items into Le Cuvage during a very wintry and snowy February, a month or so before.

We had, typically, done a ‘white van’ trip from England, and had also ‘stripped’ our previous holiday home (‘The Stables’) located in the  original chateau grounds, and only a minutes walk away from our new residence.

We had prepared our interior furnishings pretty well, and would of course add to these over time. To be fair, we needed to ‘live’ in the place for a while to get a good ‘feel’ of how everything worked, and how the layout suited us.

Generally, it was all that we we wanted from our French ‘Dream House’, and more!

Yes, of course, there are always improvements and changes that one realises could be made – a wall here, access here, electric points repositioned, additional or less lighting, extra storage, But generally, we were very happy with the two dwellings we had created out of this huge wine-making barn.

Having previously owned a holiday home in the same enclave for 12 years, we were, of course, very familiar with our surroundings, and the region.

Whenever we arrived for a holiday  we immediately felt ‘at home’. So, although the newness of ‘Le Cuvage’ was a little strange, and we had to get to grips with a new home living experience, we did not have to contend with the need to discover  a new locality, and relate to new people, and find new friends. All this was already there!

There was no doubt that the attention to detail we had maintained, and the quality of internal and external installation and fixturing had all paid off.

We, of course, still had plenty to occupy us, and although internally it was really a matter of moving and positioning furniture to maximum effect, outside was a totally different matter.

I was keen to get into the garden, and commence the ‘tidying up’ work prior to the planting of trees and shrubbery.

Our new pool, too, and along with its surrounding area, required more attention to bring it to a decent holiday standard.

So, all-in-all, we still had more work cut out, but we were determined to enjoy it, and breathe in all that fresh French air!

Le Cuvage is definitely not a ‘holiday home’ in the normal sense of the term, and was never really intended to be such. It was designed for purpose – a ‘principal’ home ready for our eventual, and intended permanent commitment to living in France.

I hope that this ‘renovation diary’ has been of of interest to the many readers who are looking to for a property in France, whether for a holiday home or permanent residence.

Each person’s project, of course, is individual to themselves, but  seeing the results and hearing of the experience of others helps to see what can be achieved, and the potential benefits that the French way of life has to offer.

I also hope that the stage-by-stage images of our project, which have been featured in each issue during the last 7 months, have  demonstrated to varying extent what is possible with a renovation project like this.

In our view, France is a brilliant place to buy and develop a property, and there are still many opportunities and bargains to be had in many regions.

The French way of life is a great experience for couples, families, and, particularly children learning a new language, and discovering another culture.

‘Le Cuvage’ has been an incredible experience for us, and it is still continuing in so many different ways.

We look forward to many years of appreciating all it has to offer, both as a home, and as a place that gives us access to a beautiful part of France.

Take a look at the full series of articles featured during the last few months at  www.thisfrenchlife.com

The latest article can be seen at: Looking back and lessons learnt, of “Le Cuvage Project”

Brian and Lucy’s Roannais website:  www.purefrancenow.com

TOP TIPS – When buying and renovating in France

1. Spend plenty of time planning your electrics. You will rarelyl ever get it perfect (certainly before you start living and using your new place!). This includes positioning of all electrical sockets, radiators, and particularly lighting. Economy and coverage of light  is a delicate balance.

2. Plan all your rooms well, and try to avoid large areas of wasted, unuseable space. Make sure you maximise on bedrooms (you always need them when friends stay!).

3. Ensure your kitchen is a good size (the most important room in the house!). A good ‘Buanderie’ (storage/utility area) and you have plenty of other storage around the house (you’ll always need it!).

4. Externally, make sure you position your terrasse/patio areas in the best place for the sun, and access from the house. Ideally, if possible, ensure there is a covered area to get away from the heat of the day, and include a convenient barbeque space for all that outside entertaining!

5. If you are having a swimming pool, try and make sure it is as private and  as wind-protected as possible. Follow the French legal and security requirements for private and rental use.

www.purefrancenow.com

The gastronomic jewel of Roanne and the Roannais!

It is an opportunity and a pleasure for all the restaurants, producers, and suppliers to open their doors to the public.

To demonstrate their gastronomic talents and artistic presentation.

This highly successful festival harmonises the art of good food with the fun of theatre, music, and entertainment.  These festivities carry on throughout the month of October in the varied and various establishments in the Roannais.

A celebration of good food, wine, successful business partnerships, conviviality and friendship.

It brings the whole community together with one purpose, at least for one whole month!

If you happen to be in the Roannais region during this October, just try one or two of the local restaurants that are supporting this event, and have fun while you enjoy excellent regional cuisine!

Visit www.roannetableouverte.com or telephone for more information on 0033 (0) 477 23 20 57

The quality of gastronomy in the Roannais region is renowned for its excellence – experience it for yourselves this October, or visit the region for your holiday, or for your next business or club event.

Visit www.purefrancenow.com for more information on all aspects of Roanne, the Roannais, in the Rhône-Alpes.

Not ones for missing an opportunity, we booked into Château de Champlong for a delightful evening dinner. All the better, because our close friends, Dale and Clare Thompson, were treating us to the whole soiree as a special belated birthday treat for me. What a great idea!

Good company, good food, good wine, in a great environment. It doesn’t get much better than that! And the anticipated occasion did not disappoint.

Château de Champlong, as most places, always look their best on a beautiful, warm, sunny evening. As we drove up the driveway, the chateau and its grounds looked stunning in the evening sunlight.

Dale and Clare had heard about us singing the praises of Olivier and Véronique Boizet’s Chateau restaurant and 4-star hotel many times before. They wanted to experience it and to find out if it was all true. They weren’t  disappointed.

After our excellent meal we returned to the lounge and bar for digestifs, and to all our delights Olivier Boizet arrived and asked if we would like to visit his ancient wine cave beneath the château for another after-dinner drink. We couldn’t say no to this one!

It was a fascinating place, and a privilege to be invited into the inner sanctum of the château’s high quality wine collection.

It was a great pleasure and lots of fun for all of us. We all went home very happy!!

Very many thanks to Dale and Clare!

For our evening meal we had decided on the ‘Saveurs Festives’ menu with 2 services and wine selected for each course by Champlong’s sommelier. A Perfect combination of flavours!

Château de Champlong

www.purefrancenow.com

_____________________________________________________________________

www.purefrancenow.com

The Pure Art Gallery

_________________________________________________________________________

Olivier Boizet has a passion for flavour and respects his ingredients; his cuisine is modelled on what he himself likes to eat: gourmet food, an author’s cuisine, created in harmony with the seasons.

A cuisine which is up-to-date but not based on passing fads, contemporary but with no fashionable flourishes. Creativity at its essence, and a sense of flavour.

He is in a region where the soil is rich and he has special relationships with all his suppliers who are often small producers.

He is inspired by seasonal change and reinvents French-inspired dishes, allowing the ingredients to express every one of their subtle nuances.

The Château de Champlong, located right in the heart of the Roannais region, is set in lush green countryside. 
This charming 17th century mansion, converted into a château in the 18^th century and refurbished throughout by its owners, restaurateurs proud of their native region, offers the unique combination of a warm family atmosphere and a restaurant renowned throughout the entire region. Supported by their dynamic team, Véronique and Olivier Boizet’s hospitality is welcoming and personalised: the art of hospitality Roannais-style!

Château de Champlong 4- star hotel is also special.

The theme of spices runs through twelve distinct and welcoming rooms, tucked away inside the Château, some in the attic spaces.
Saffron, Star Anise, Nutmeg, Malabar Pepper, Coriander, Cardamom, Poppy Seed, Liquorice, Mace, Aniseed, Cinnamon and Paprika, names which evoke distant horizons, a veritable invitation to travel…
They all enjoy natural light and views over the grounds with its hundred-year-old trees, and are the perfect haven of peace. They are light and spacious, with a decidedly contemporary yet elegant decor. Dark wood and dashes of warm colour combine to produce a feeling of sweet harmony, an ideal restfulness for body and spirit.

They all boast a jet shower or bath, bathrobe, telephone, free Wifi Internet connection, flat-screen TV, safe, mini-bar and a welcome basket (provided free of charge).

Château de Champlong

The Roannais Directory

www.purefrancenow.com

_________________________________________________________________________

This is a Regional Directory listing of recommended restaurants, cafes, shops, services, suppliers and businesses in the Roannais region of the Rhône-Alpes.

All designed to assist people, visiting, holidaying, or living in the Roannais, to locate and access some of the best Businesses and Services in this superb region of France.

Purefrancenow has selected and recommended these businesses primarily on the basis of Quality, Service, Price, and their local Reputation. Often, too, on the fact that Purefrancenow have already used these businesses or services ourselves, or, for example, have visted and dined at the restaurants listed.

More detailed feedback and commentary, relating to Purefrancenow experience and recommendation may also be found in the Purefrancenow News and Reviews ‘Blog’ on our website: www.purefrancenow.com

A variety of businesses are included, and Purefrancenow will continue to select and add new recommended entries to the directory as we discover, experience, and assess each individual business and service.

Our Directory Listing will include:  Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, Shops, Tourism and Leisure, Gîte Rental, Hotels, and all types of Home and Business Services.

The Purefrancenow Roannais Directory

If You Are A Business Or Service Operating Within The Roannais Region And You Would Like To Be Considered For A Listing Within Our Directory Then Please Contact Us By Email : info@purefrancenow.com

www.purefrancenow.com

For this month’s newsletter article on ‘Discovering the Roannais’ visit thisfrenchlife.com

www.purefrancenow.com