Categories: Atlantic Coast, Bordeaux Area, Moving to France
What should you consider when buying your forever home in France? In this episode, Susan Hays shares her journey to finding the perfect house in the Charente Maritime. She discusses the important factors she didn’t want to compromise on and highlights her favorite places to visit and take friends in the area.
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Living the French Dream in Charentes Maritimes with Susan Hays
Susan and her family moved to the Charente Maritime about ten years ago. They had lived in various regions of France, including Provence and near Biarritz. But each time, they felt something was missing. After a burglary experience in Provence, they became more cautious about their choices. When they decided to move permanently, they made a list of non-negotiable criteria for their forever home.
1. Safety: After their burglary experience, feeling safe was a top priority.
2. Community: They wanted to live in a village with life all year round, not just a tourist hotspot that empties out in winter.
3. Proximity to Town: It was important to be within 20 minutes of a good-sized town with amenities and social life.
4. Coastal Access: Susan and her family love the water, so being close to the coast was essential.
5. Climate: They preferred a region with mild winters and more sun, unlike the longer, greyer winters in Brittany.
With these criteria in mind, they found their ideal home in the village of Port d'Envaux. It’s a small village but has a vibrant community and is located on the River Charente, which adds to its charm.
Favorite Places to Visit in the Charente-Maritime
Susan also shares her favorite places in the Charente Maritime, where she enjoys taking visitors:
- Port d'Envaux: Her home village is small but lively, with three restaurants, a riverside café, and a boulangerie. The river adds to the charm, offering activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Saintes: A historic town with Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater and arch. It’s a great place for a day trip, with pedestrian areas, markets, and a beautiful cathedral.
- La Rochelle: A larger city known for its beautiful architecture, shops, parks, and proximity to the sea. It’s an excellent spot for a longer visit.
- Taillebourg: A quaint village with a chateau overlooking the river. This village is much older than Port d'Envaux and has a rich history.
- Saint-Savinien: Another picturesque town known for its artisanal shops, galleries, and riverside charm. It’s the largest of the three villages that make up the “Golden Triangle” in this area.
- Château de Panloy: Located just a short walk from Susan’s home, this chateau hosts various events, including haunted evenings and outdoor opera performances.
- Île de Ré: Accessible by a bridge, this island is popular for its beautiful landscapes and cycling routes.
- Île d’Aix: A small island with no cars, only accessible by boat, making it a peaceful escape with cafes and museums.
- The Île d'Oléron: Known for its fantastic beaches and surfing spots, this island is more populated but still offers a laid-back atmosphere.
- Jonzac: A town further south with a lively summer market and a strong sense of community.
- Marennes: Famous for its oysters, this coastal area is perfect for seafood lovers.
- Fouras: A charming town with access to Île d’Aix and known for its beautiful coastline.
- Châtelaillon-Plage: A pretty seaside town that was rebuilt after WWII, offering modern amenities and beach access.
More episodes about the Atlantic coast
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Discussed in this Episode
- Port d'Envaux
- Saintes
- La Rochelle
- Taillebourg
- Saint-Savinien
- Château de Panloy
- Île de Ré
- Île d’Aix
- Île d'Oléron
- Jonzac
- Marennes
- Fouras
- Châtelaillon-Plage
- Fort de l'Ile Madame
- Bordeaux
- the Marais Poitevin.
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TranscriptCategories: Atlantic Coast, Bordeaux Area, Moving to France