When people think about moving to a new country one of the first items on the "wish list" is better weather. This is an area where France does not disappoint. As a result, the lifestyle tends to be more geared up for living outdoors during the long summer months. It is not unusual when out and about or travelling on longer journeys to regularly come across picnic areas harbouring a family that, in an ideal world, has scoured the market the same morning for some regional delicacies and maybe even a bottle of local wine to share, depending on the journey. One of my favourite spots is on the river Charente pictured above, to the West of Cognac.
It is arguable that the ultimate solution to counter my comments above would be to have your own house on the river where you could sit in the garden and have the best of both worlds. The pretty three bedroomed house above sits at the side of The Dordogne river with views to the rear over parkland as well as the water. A light airy characterful house with a pool in a very pretty spot.
As a bonus this is in Cahors country. If you like strong fruity Australian and South American red wine and find French wine a bit "thin" sometimes, Cahor wine could be just what you have been looking for. Known during the middle ages as "the black wine of Lot" due to the strong colour from the Malbec grape, Cahor wine was said to have been a major competitor with the stronger Bordeaux wines shipped to England in the mid 18th Century by sailing ships. The Cahors and Bordeaux wines quenching the thirsts of the voraciously enthusiastic claret drinkers of the day.
The owners of this house also own a restaurant which is a few doors away and which also sits on the river and is for sale. Capable of covering over 200 diners, the restaurant includes 3 letting rooms and an owners flat, all of which is currently let to tourists in the summer and students in the winter. With a Californian style pool this "mini resort" enjoys a good passing trade, particularly during the summer months as well as strong local support throughout the year. There is also an opportunity to develop the letting side with additional rooms.
You can find the house at www.frenchwatersideproperties4sale.com.
Similarly the restaurant is on this direct link www.frenchwatersideproperties4sale.com.
So, a post that started out talking about a picnic by the river ends up recommending that you buy a waterside house and restaurant.
Hard work and a big leap of faith but it could be the best thing you ever did.......
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