Provence in France – (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes,
Bouches-du-Rhône, Drôme Provencal, Hautes-Alpes, Provence Gard,
Var, Vaucluse)
The Provence region of France has 8 different departments,
consisting of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes,
Bouches-du-Rhône, Drôme Provencal, Hautes-Alpes, Provence Gard,
Var and the Vaucluse.
Weather: Provence is well know for having a warm, Mediterranean climate.
Summers are long and hot, and winters are mild. The Mistral wind adds another
dimension, and the coast is slightly warmer than inland Provence.
The Region: Provence has been a favourite destination for all nationalities,
for centuries, and the Romans were a pretty strong ex-pat community for a
while!
Hilltop villages and rugged countryside contrasts with the blue sea, beaches
and the glamorous Côte d’Azur towns of Nice and Cannes. The landscape
and flora doesn’t provide for herds of cattle, so instead of butter
there is olive oil. Olive trees - which can only grow in climates that never
get too cold - are everywhere, their ancient, twisting shapes, low forms
and silver-green leaves add a mysterious element to the lure of Provence.
Provence’s important past is evident in the walled medieval towns
and cities. Aix-en-Provence is the very old capital of the region, and Avignon
used to be the home of a whole line of popes. The papacy there was a serious
rival to that in Rome. Nowadays, these towns are bustling with colourful
markets and shops, alongside all the old buildings.
Gastronomy: The familiar provençal flavours of tomatoes, anchovies,
onions, olives, olive oil, seafood, basil and rosemary have such a strong
identity, and shout “sunshine!”. The influence of Italian food
is apparent, with dishes like gnocchi and ravioli, but really it is all down
to the traditional ingredients which are staples in both Italy and Provence.
Salade niçoise and ratatouille are famous local dishes, but there
are many less known specialities, like ‘calissons’, which are
sweet delicacies made from honey and melon marzipan, and come from Aix. Meals
are often served with local rosé; which is refreshing in the warm
weather, and robust enough to go with all those mediterranean flavours
Looking for French properties
for sale in Provence region of France, including
the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes,
Bouches-du-Rhône, Drôme Provencal, Hautes-Alpes, Provence Gard,
Var, Vaucluse?
Or a complete list of Estate agents in France ? Then seach by selecting French
department from our map of France on our database driven sister site: Property
for sale
in Provence
Dordogne south west France
French Property of the month
Very special French property, built before the 14th century, in a small hamlet
near Cubjac. Approx 2700m2 of land, including a productive vegetable garden,
stone barbecue, stone well (water tank), 2 terraces and a meadow. The garden
is full of charm, with low stone walls here and there, and lots of mature
trees. The house is full of original features, exposed stonework and beams,
and has light, airy rooms.
Location:
This property is in a tiny, stone-built, hill-top hamlet, with spectacular
views over the verdant valley. Brouchaud is 1km away, and has a post office,
and the beautiful village of Cubjac is 6km down the road. Cubjac has a weekly
market, bakers, bars, shops, doctors, a school and various other conveniences.
Périgueux is 20 minutes' drive west.
Accommodation:
2 bedroom, a bathroom, kitchen and lounge, plus plenty of space which could
be converted. See 'special features' for details
Price: € 220000.00 ( £ 150920.00 )
Further information on french
property for sale
or search for french
property on www.estateagentsfrance.com
