Life in Rural France
If you’re looking to move to rural France then you have a huge range of properties and areas to choose from. It’s important to know what you’re getting into before you make the decision though!
The Lot department in rural France is known for its picturesque landscape. The countryside here is beautiful and it is a great place to live.
Farming
Farming is a large part of the life of rural France. In fact, the word ‘farming’ is often used to describe a whole range of activities. That is including fishing, hunting, trading, sewing, and poultry farming.
There are a lot of different types of farms, all with their own unique characteristics. They vary widely in size and type, depending on the area and soil.
In France, a farming system comprises a combination of cropping and livestock systems. In order to transform land and labor into useful products for consumption or sale. The aim is to meet the diverse requirements of the farm household. While presenting the resource base and maintaining a high level of environmental quality.
Hunting
Hunting is a big part of rural life in France, and it’s not just a hobby; it’s an institution. Over 1.1m people hold hunting licenses, making it one of the country’s most popular pastimes.
Hunters argue that it’s essential to keep the balance of wildlife in check. And that they play an active role in protecting species that are threatened with extinction. They also help to regulate animal populations and reduce farmers’ crop damage.
But despite its popularity, hunting is a divisive issue in France. It divides those who defend it from a growing number of animal rights activists.
Fishing
There’s a wide range of fishing in rural France to suit all tastes. Wild brown trout, grayling, arctic char, carp, and pike are just some of the many fish species. You can catch on the country’s rivers and streams. While lake-based predator fishing is a big draw in the Savoie region.
The countryside south of the Loire in France is particularly well suited to anglers. Where many historic hamlets are located and where a slow pace of life is still typical. But you’ll need to be a little more choosy than in other parts of the country.
For example, if you want to go fishing on a river or stream then you’ll need to be aware of French fishing rights. Unless you have an agreement with the owner of the property. Then he or she has the right to prohibit you from fishing.
Cycling
If you want to explore rural France at an enviable pace you can’t do much better than cycling. The countryside here is dotted with charming small villages and quaint cafes. Vineyards that produce some of France’s best wine. As well as castles and chateaux that evoke centuries of history.
You can cycle on the same roads as you would drive. But there are also a number of dedicated cycle routes that have been created and are well-signposted. They are called greenways and they are a safe way to travel without having to deal with traffic.
Cycling is a great way to exercise and it tones muscles in the upper and lower body. It is also a good way to burn calories, especially if you are overweight or obese.
Walking
When it comes to life in rural France, walking is an essential part of the picture. It doesn’t necessarily mean putting on a pair of hiking boots. It could simply be leisurely ambles through pretty villages or countryside. With plenty of time to stop for a coffee and a croissant.
In France, there are a number of well-marked footpaths for all levels. The most popular are GRs (Grande Randonnees). A national network of paths that connect together major towns and cities.
In addition, there are local paths called PRs (Petites Randonnees). Which link historic villages and are usually circular in nature. These are generally way-marked in yellow, although there may be a few nuances depending on the area you’re in.
