European Travel: Provence Properties
23. June 2008
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Provence properties are available throughout southern France region for short term and long term rentals. Many Provence properties are also available for purchase. These properties range from simple, one bedroom apartments to large, palatial estates that are well suited for large parties or for conversion to bed and breakfasts.
Provence properties offer beautiful landscapes, friendly neighbors, and a deep sense of history. Many people immediately think of the Riviera when they think of southern France, but this area is increasingly overpopulated and expensive, and many people are finding that the hidden deals are in the charming country towns in inland Provence.
Provence Properties for Purchase
Many foreigners who visit southern France will notice the abundance of properties for sale in the area. Many of these properties are well suited for conversion to bed and breakfasts. For retirees looking to settle into a second career as the proprietor of a quaint B&B, the south of France represents a prime location.
By taking the proper steps in purchasing a home, the process can be relatively painless. There are numerous real estate agencies that can help you along with the process and ensure that you understand all the French laws and tax codes. There are also bilingual attorneys available that will charge one percent of the property value to walk you through the intricate paperwork.
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European Travel: Pont Du Gard
22. June 2008
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The Pont du Gard outside of Nimes, France is one of the most famous examples of the ancient Roman aqueduct. These aqueducts were architectural marvels at the time and are still considered incredible feats of engineering. The purpose of these aqueducts was to carry water across a valley, hollow, or basically anywhere that water would not naturally flow.
The Pont du Gard was used in particular to carry water across the Gard river, thus the name. Translated literally, it means bridge over the Gard. The Pont du Gard is a three-tiered structure that carries water on the top of the third level and supports automobile traffic on the first level. At its longest level, it spans 275 meters.
The Pont du Gard throughout History
This aqueduct was built shortly before the Christian era of Roman civilization. It was part of a long aqueduct that spanned nearly 50 kilometers to bring water from Uzes to the ancient Roman city of Nimes. As much as 20,000 cubic meters of water flowed into Nimes every day across the pont!
Today, it is one of the most visited tourist sites in the whole of southern France. Visitors flock to the area throughout the day and the area around the pont can become quite crowded. The best time to visit the aqueduct bridge is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. In this early hour the sun, the air, and the quiet allow the visitor to fully appreciate the marvel before them.
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European Travel: Cevennes
21. June 2008
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The Cevennes in southern France is much like a French version of the United States Appalachians. Unlike the towering, snow-capped Alps to the east, the Cevennes are more like gentle sloping hills and undulating plateaus covered in a blanket of green tree tops. As the Appalachians contrast with the Rockies in their subdued nature, so too do the Cevennes.
This mountain range is an ancient one, dating back millions of years before the Alps were formed. At one time, the peaks were probably similar to those of the more famous Alps but time has eroded these mountains to the elevation they are today. In the center of these mountains is a national park that helps protect this natural wonder from overdevelopment.
The Cevennes Region
The only national park in the French low mountains is the Cevennes National Park and it has become home to a large population of indigenous wildlife. It remains one of the largest protected areas in Europe and research in balanced development is ongoing in the park today. Research into sustainable agriculture may well be increasingly important in years to come.
Because agriculture is strictly regulated in the park, it is possible to see a wide variety of native fauna that is nearly non-existent in neighboring areas. Today, there are almost 2,500 native species in the park. As the forests and moors are allowed to progress in the region, this number may very well increase.
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European Travel: Ardeche France
20. June 2008
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The department of Ardeche, France is an adventurers dream come true with lush forests, swift white-water rivers, excellent climbing, and amazing mountain biking and hiking. The mountainous areas are pockmarked with numerous lakes and riverbeds that make the water adventures plentiful. Whether you like to raft down a bubbling current or simply float in the still solitude of a mountain lake, the mountains of Ardeche have your perfect hideaway.
Numerous waterfalls also dot the landscape and make for amazing photographic opportunities. With water-filled craters being continually fed by these waterfalls, the water is always pure, cool, and refreshing–especially after a long hike during the heat of the French summer.
The Southern Ardeche Area
The southern Ardeche area is lower in altitude and has a more Mediterranean climate that is perfect for winter vacations. Beautiful beaches make for an enjoyable summer or winter holiday as the weather is usually ideal year round. Numerous natural arches are carved from the limestone cliffs and make for stunning landforms.
Spelunking is also a unique activity in the region as several caves can be visited and explored. The caves of La Forestiere are accessible through a 500 meter long pathway that leads you to the artificially lit interior. Ancient stalactites and fossilized bones are testament to the rich natural history of the region.
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European Travel: French Homes
19. June 2008
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French homes for sale in and around the Provence area are abundant and unique in their architectural designs. French homes in this area reflect the diverse history of the area and the myriad influences that have shaped the cities. From Spanish-influenced haciendas in the west to classic, Victorian style homes in Nice, you can find whatever you are looking for in Provence.
French homes in general are renowned for their classic beauty and attention to intricate detail. Few homes in France are made by cookie-cutter, tract home companies that design and construct most American homes. In France, each home is unique and carries a certain character of its own.
French Homes for Sale or Rent
Many tourists with families or otherwise large groups choose to rent homes instead of renting multiple hotel rooms. This is usually a good option as it allows the entire group to stay in one centralized location instead of being scattered throughout one or multiple properties. The amenities of a house are more numerous as well when compared to the limited amenities of a hotel room.
Many individuals also look at homes in France as potential income opportunities and look to purchase these homes for the sole purpose of renting them out to tourists. For example, many retirees from the U.K., Canada, and the United States move to France every year to purchase property and open bed and breakfasts. By working with a reputable real estate company in France, the process of purchasing a home is quick and painless.
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