Living in the Dordogne means we’re lucky enough to be surrounded by rolling countryside, beautiful rivers and peaceful villages. But when the temperatures climb in summer, many of us start searching for the best beaches within driving distance for a refreshing day out or a longer weekend away. While the Dordogne may not have a coastline of …
If you’re planning a trip or settling into life in the Dordogne, understanding bank holidays in France, known locally as jours fériés, can make a real difference to your daily experience. These public holidays are not just dates on a calendar; they shape everything from shop opening hours to traffic levels and the overall atmosphere …
Why Bilingual Learning Matters in the Dordogne Living in the Dordogne often means embracing a beautifully bilingual lifestyle. Whether you’ve moved here permanently, split your time between countries, or are simply encouraging your children to learn French, finding ways to make language learning feel natural rather than forced can make all the difference. For many …
If you’re looking for an exciting February half-term activity near Dordogne, Aquascope at Futuroscope offers a warm, high-energy escape from winter weather. Blending immersive technology with classic water park fun, it’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about family attractions in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Here’s everything to know before planning your visit, especially if you’re travelling from …
When living in France, you quickly realise that comfort at home is taken seriously. One of the most iconic symbols of French home life is the Charentaise slipper, a traditional felt slipper that has been keeping French feet warm for centuries. Recently, my husband and I discovered Rondinaud slippers, a historic French brand that continues …
When I turned 40, I wanted a gift that felt meaningful, something timeless, practical, and beautifully made. The Withings ScanWatch Nova Brilliant in silver and gold was exactly that. It blends traditional watch design with advanced health technology, offering a refined alternative to fully digital smartwatches. First Impressions: A Hybrid That Looks Like a Luxury …
Every year on the 2nd of February, kitchens across France fill with the smell of freshly made crêpes. This much-loved tradition is known as La Chandeleur, often nicknamed crêpe day in France, but its origins go far beyond a simple excuse to enjoy pancakes. What Is La Chandeleur? La Chandeleur, also known as Candlemas, is …
Living or travelling as vegan in France can feel challenging at first, especially in a country so closely associated with cheese, butter, and traditional meat-based dishes. While France is not always considered vegan-friendly, plant-based options do exist, particularly for those who understand the food culture, know what to ask for, and recognise accidentally vegan foods. …
If you’re living in France, visiting the Dordogne, or planning a rural French escape, understanding French breakfast culture is a lovely way to connect with everyday life here. Known as le petit déjeuner, literally “the little lunch”, breakfast in France is typically simple, light, and centred around quality ingredients rather than quantity. Unlike the hearty …
Last weekend we escaped for a much-anticipated break at Center Parcs Les Landes de Gascogne, arriving around 4.30pm on Friday and staying until about 6pm on Monday to celebrate my 40th birthday. We stayed in a Comfort Cottage, and it was the perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and family fun. Welcome to the Heart of …
