After 20 years of reflection, 14 financial partners, three years of construction, a few « is it actually happenning? » rumours and a mere 46 million euros later a new airport is born - well almost. The new Brive-Souillac airport located in south-west France is scheduled to open its doors in between April and June 2008.

This is an airport with a very unique location as it is situated at the intersection of three departments each of which belongs to three different regions. The actual airport itself is situated in the department Corrèze (in the Limousin region) and within easy distances of the departments Lot (Midi-Pyrénées region) and the Dordogne (Aquitaine region). Not only does its name Brive-Souillac cross borders, but even its 2100m runway begins in the Lot and ends in the Corrèze. The airport also has a favourable location in terms of the road network as it is located near the crossing of the A20 up to Paris and A89 west across to Bordeaux.

Tourism near the airport

Brive-Souillac airport will serve what could be easily said to be one of the most beautiful and most visited of the tourist regions in France. It is blessed with the valley of the Dordogne to the east and the river Lot to the south with the popular Dordogne west of the airport. What brings charm to this part of France is that there are no major towns close by and therefore no heavy industries. There is simply a cluster of small towns and villages, some famous and others not so well known but just as equally charming.

Tourism in Corrèze

It boasts a generous sprinkling of the most beautiful villages in France. It currently has 6 of the classified 151 villages which belong to this elite club “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France”. One of the members is Collonges la Rouge. It was in fact the Mayor of Collonges la Rouge, Charles Ceyrac, who in 1981 decided to serve a cause close to heart to protect and promote the outstanding heritage of such beautiful villages. In 1982 the association was made official and 66 mayors throughout France followed the example.

Collonges la Rouge at around 19km from the airport is a small and perfectly formed village. What is surprising about this village is its bright and rich red-stone properties. It is wonderfully preserved with pride by its 420 inhabitants with geraniums adorning the houses in every possible place - a true picture-postcard village. In the centre lies the church St Pierre with its Romanesque bell-tower dating back to the 12th century. The village is set upon the beautiful and luscious green countryside contrasting against the redness of the stone. This once used to be staging post for pilgrims on their way to Saint Jacques de Compostelle.

Tourism in Lot

One of the more famous villages includes “Rocamadour” situated in the Lot further south of Brive at 59km from the airport. This is no ordinary tourist site. It is a truly spectacular site set upon a ravine carved out by the river Alzou. In 1166 the relics of a hermit “Amadou” were discovered outside what is now known as the chapel of Miracles. The body which was so remarkably intact inspired the construction of its abbey built vertically on the cliff face and its castle perched on top. The Black Virgin located in the Chapel of Miracles has been and still is the highlight for the pilgrims who continue to visit the site from all four corners of the world. Up until this day miracles are said to have happened – which you are to judge for yourself! A long and windy staircase leads down to the village which although subject to tourism remains very well preserved and does not remove you from the spirituality and the wonder of the site itself. Certainly worth visiting for believers and non-believers.

ARCHITECTURE

The traditional properties in this area are built from natural stone with a creamy tint topped with red tiling. Often you will find “pigeonniers” to add to the charm. Properties also often come with a traditional “souillarde” typical of the area which is the kitchen with a vaulted ceiling and stone sink.

PROPERTY MARKET

Property prices in the Lot have been at their highest two years ago. This has meant that home buyers have turned to other less known destinations like the Aveyron to find lower priced properties. However there has been a slowdown in the market in the last 12 months which has resulted in property prices decreasing and making properties in the Lot much more affordable. Such slowdown makes it a good time to purchase in the area and more buyer power to negotiate.

Property prices in the Corrèze are significantly lower the the Lot and the Dordogne as the department is not as popular or heard of as its neighbours. However with accessibility to the department starting from late next spring house prices may rise.

IMPACT ON REGION AND PROPERTY MARKET

The new airport with its international destination will certainly play its role in promoting the attractive image of this region. It will have a significant impact in particular on small business in the tourism sector. A study shows that international passengers spend on average 560 euros per trip compared to national passengers spending 160 euros. The airport will also serve existing second home owners in the departments Dordogne, Lot and Corrèze. Although the Corrèze has by far the lowest number of British home owners at only 10 percent of the three departements. The Lot accounts for 28 percent and a huge 62 percent for the Dordogne.

What is certain is that property prices will rise with the arrival of the low-cost carrier into Brive-Souillac airport. Some experts believe that prices in the Corrèze will rise by 30 to 50 percent.

WHAT CAN YOU GET FOR YOUR MONEY

Here is an idea of how far your money will go in this area.

This is a pretty stone cottage with a garden set in a hamlet just south of Brive. The house does require some internal modernisation however the walls and roof are in good condition. It has a living room with a fireplace, a dining room, a cellar and 1 bedroom with further space in the attic which can be converted. This property is situated on the border of the Corrèze and the Lot just south of the new airport and would cost you 127 000 euros inclusive of agency fees.

For 267 000 euros you can purchase this spacious country house located again in the Lot just south of Brive. 40 m² living room, 25 m² kitchen, dining room, 6 bedrooms as well as further space to convert in the attic, 175 m² basement, laundry room and a garden.

Here is a truly charming property which includes a fully restored farmhouse, a gite and a large barn in good condition. It is set in peaceful countryside and surrounded by 2 hectares of meadow which are part of the property. The main property includes an open dining and kitchen area with fireplace of 45 m², an additional 20 m² lounge, 2 large bedrooms, mezzanine, laundry room and an unspoilt view. This would cost you 392 000 euros.

At 435 000 euros you don’t have to be a Hollywood film star to afford this fortified property. Located near a forest close to the Dordogne Valley this wonderful property is waiting to be snapped up. It includes the hallway within the tower, 45 m² kitchen and dining area, a lounge, attached barn and a terrace of 58 m². On the first floor you have the right wing with 3 bedrooms and the left wing with 3 bedrooms with bathroom. The icing on the cake is the bedroom on the second floor within the tower itself. However it needs modernisation with the installation of new bathrooms.

The airport with a capacity of 150 000 passengers per year will provide 2 daily flights with a low cost carrier to the UK, 3 daily flights to Paris and 2 flights to Lyon.

Scheduled to open in 2008 watch this space for news on its arrival. Although we don’t expect any delays - the French are often on time with civil engineering achievements if not early !

Nav Vilain
Selection Habitat
+33 5 65 70 10 49
www.selectionhabitat.com
info@selectionhabitat.com

France, as we love it, blessed with its geographical diversity and contrasts could not be complete without its very own lake district. The area known as the «Lévézou» is a collection of five lakes set upon an unspoilt and remote green plateaux in the heart of the department Aveyron in the Midi-Pyrenees. This part of France does not even exist as far the guide books are concerned but for those who spend time here it is a little corner of paradise…a haven of peace….an unforgettable friend….a million miles from everywhere… To put you on the map the lakes lie at half an hour between the towns Rodez and Millau. Millau claims recognition for its viaduct attracting many tourists to this part of France.

The five lakes are Lake Pareloup, Pont de Salars, Villefranche de Panat, Bages and Saint Amans totalling an area of 1800 hectares between the Aveyron valley to its north and the Tarn valley to the south. The largest of the lakes is Lake Pareloup covering alone 1290 hectares making it the fifth largest man-made lake in France and the largest lake in the entire south of France. Its 130km perimeter is dotted with a handful of sandy beaches, secluded creeks, grassy banks, rocky outcrops, campsites, friendly hotels and second homes. The majority of the second homes that exist around Lake Pareloup are owned by French living around Rodez. The owners use their properties here as holiday homes over the hot summer months where it is much cooler and comfortable at nights due to its altitude.

The creation of lake Pareloup to produce hydro-electric power began in the 1950s. Many buildings, agricultural land and an entire village were swallowed up all except a roman bridge which exists today. The lakes are linked underground allowing water to be pumped from one lake to another.

When writing about regions of southern France I am often curious to know about legends that surround certain places and I finally found the legend that surrounds Pareloup. In the local language Occtitan „Paro lo Loup“ translates as „protect yourself from the wolf“. This must have emerged from a time in the past when wolves inhabited the forests and pastures of the Levezou plateau.

TOURISM

Since the 1980’s tourism has been booming however the tourists are currently mostly French nationals from the area or beyond or foreign tourists including the Dutch who fill the campsites keeping this paradise all to themselves. It is of no surprise that this jewel has been kept well hidden. It is a true holiday resort where relaxation is the rule and one can do as much or as little as one wishes. The early mornings are no doubt my favourite time at the lake where the sun rises like a new dawn and glistens over the lake. This moment of stillness is only disturbed by keen fishermen making their way out for the morning’s catch.

Water sports on Lake Pareloup

During the holiday season the lake comes alive with many water based activities including swimming, boating, water-skiing, canoeing and kayaking and wind-surfing. There are professionals on-site in high season who provide courses and lessons to adults and childen. Or for those who enjoy speed maybe you can even have a go at wake-boarding or being pulled along by a boat whilst sitting on a rubber-ring! For those keen on boating it is also possible to take a boat licence.

Walking

Walking is a popular holiday activity in the Aveyron and here in the Levezou there are 600km of marked walking routes for all levels. You can choose from the botanical route where you pass 100 species of plants all whilst exploring the rolling Levezou hills. Alternatively there are walks through woodland which provide much needed shelter and are therefore ideal for the hotter summer months.

The fisherman’s paradise

The abundance of lakes, rivers and streams makes Aveyron an excellent base for fishermen. There are two lakes reserved exclusively for fishing (Lac de Bages and Lac de la Gourde) both are first category lakes. Lake Pareloup is known as a second category fishing lake and not exclusively for fisherman however it is is reknowned to be a „mythical“ spot for pike and perch either from caught from the border of the lake or in a boat allowing access to more difficult areas. The record to beat is 1.39m for a pike weighing in it 19.6kg!! Now there’s a little challenge for you on your next holiday to the lakes.

Property Market

Property prices in the Levezou are certainly amongst the lowest in the Aveyron if not the lowest in France. Up until recently this area has been very remote as it was cut off from everywhere making it difficult to access. The opening of the Millau Viaduct now connects this part of Aveyron to the coast injecting life to the region. The Levezou is only half an hour from the viaduct and now within 1.5hours from the coast. It is here that we forecast the biggest increase in price throughout Aveyron bringing prices in line with the rest of Aveyron. The reason for such price increase is due to a strong demand from the French living nearer the coast looking for holiday homes in a region where the quality of life is still very high and where crime rates are amongst the lowest in France. There is also demand beginning from international visitors discovering the area also buyng holiday homes however the percentage is far less.

There is a huge variety of excellent value properties here in the Levezou from barns at a mere 50,000 euros to a 14th century castle at a little above 500,000 euros. One can still find a huge choice of properties to renovate here at very affordable prices – for the moment anyway!

The architecture is similar to other parts of Aveyron where the agricultural heritage leaves its mark. Properties here usually started their lives as farm buildings including barns with separate farmhouses as the living quarters. These make wonderful family homes with annexes for extended families or gites and chambre d’hotes. Solid natural stone farmhouses are topped with beautiful fish-tail roofs made from „lauze“ which is the local stone.

Below is a small selection of what you can find in the area.

This barn looks small on the picture however has the potential to convert 225 m² on two levels. Planning permission has already been obtained to convert the property into a habitable property. This property is on the market for 52 000 euros including agency fees.

This wonderful little masterhouse is set in a village. Its structure is in good condition with a new roof and it offers great potential for conversion. It has a courtyard, garden with another annex. Located near the lakes at only 80 000 euros.

Here is another masterhouse however without the same dimensions. It includes 8 bedrooms for a large family or chambres d’hotes, a games room, cellar, 50 m² living and dining area, 25 m² kitchen set upon 1300 m² of land for 190 000 euros.

This large farmhouse is set upon 4000 m² of land with a view and access rights directly to the lake. Includes one house, 2 large barns all which require renovation. The structure is good however it is still a big project however once up and running it would be an exceptional family home or an idyllic chambres d’hotes.

Castles do not come cheaper than this. Here is a 14th century castle which is in a village close to the lakes. It is currently used as a hotel/restaurant however the owners are looking to sell due to retirement. It comes with a professional kitchen, 17 bedrooms, a courtyard and lots of authenticity. This costs a mere 530 000 euros. Agency fees included on all properties.

For those looking for a good investment in traditional stone properties or a family home close to a lake this region has all the qualities before prices rise in level with the rest of France.

Nav Vilain
Selection Habitat
+33 5 65 70 10 49
www.selectionhabitat.com
info@selectionhabitat.com

When asked about skiing in France one immediately thinks of the impressive ski resorts in the Alps and the Pyrenees. Many would be surprised to hear that you can also ski in the Aubrac in Aveyron. For the curious skiers amongst you and lovers of the untainted French countryside, read on to discover.

The Aubrac

The Aubrac is the perfect example of the rugged, silent French countryside untouched by man to reveal its magical, untamed beauty. This vast volcanic plateau secretly nestles in the mountains of the north of Aveyron in the Midi-Pyrenees, at the border of the Auvergne and the Cantal departements. Across its 2500km2 plateau lies a land of mountain pastures and forests with an unforgettable tranquillity which we can simply say…nurtures one soul. No visitor can leave without forgetting its unique lighting which dramatically sculpts its landscape and rocks to create an astonishing display of the lands charm. It is simply indefinable and only by visiting it can one truly appreciate what it offers. Visitors leave with an overwhelming sense of harmony with nature, some go as far to say that it is a spiritual experience…

“An attraction, at once gentle yet difficult to resist, brings me back year after year, again and again to the exposed uplands of Aubrac. Everything that is strange and wonderful about the French countryside seems to be found there still: like a bald chunk of continent… Austere sacramental tonsures, amongst the arborescent mane stretching into the distance; images of an almost spiritual depilation of the land which inextricably links the feelings of altitude and elevation.” French novelist, Julien Gracq.

The resorts

Over the summer months the famous Aubrac breed of cattle peacefully graze on its pastures. In winter a transformation occurs where the snow turns this expanse of plateau into a Nordic landscape. Unknown to many, Aubrac boasts 200km of marked pistes for cross-country linking the villages of Brameloup, Nasbinals, Aubrac, Sainte Urcize and Laguiole, as well as many downhill slopes.

Aubrac resort at 1300m altitude is the ideal starting point for off-trail cross country skiing offering several 40km circuits and ice-skating. It is also a great resort for children and has a choice of accommodation.

Brameloup at 1200-1390m altitude lies in the heart of the forest offering 43km of cross country trails, 10 downhill slops, 9 ski lifts and 2 itineraries for snow shoes. There is also a crèche and a snow garden for kids.

Laguiole at 1000-1400m is the well-equipped resort offering the choice of cross-country and down hill skiing. There are 16 trails (one of which is floodlit), 11 ski lifts, one sledge lift and snow cannons together with 45km of cross country trails. It also offers marked walks throughout the forest.

St Urcize at 1200-1400m is situated in the Cantal and offers again a choice of downhill and cross country skiing with 5 pistes, 3 lifts and 45km of trails.

Finally Nasbinals offers 15km of trails, downhill and dog sledging, 3 downhill pistes and 1 ski lift.

These resorts are perfect for a long-weekend skiing break away from the crowds that are all too common at some larger ski resorts in France. They are also ideal for families as they offer many children’s activities. For those not so keen on skiing, the Aubrac offers beautiful trails for walking and hiking. There is an impressive network of footpaths, bridle paths and tracks linking the villages. “Topoguides” are very handy and can be purchased from tourist offices.

Flora and Fauna

Traditionally a farming community the local economy is based of the rearing of the famous Aubrac breed of cattle. These cows are the emblem of Aubrac with their large dark eyes, perfect horns and honey coloured hides. Local farmers proudly drive their cattle to their summer pastures across the plateau’s criss-cross of footpaths. This ancient tradition of rural life in Aubrac is known as the “fete de la transhumance” attracting many visitors around the month of May each year. Another well known attraction is the mating cry of the stag which cuts into the silence of Aubrac is September and October.

Aubrac was made famous following the award winning film “Microcosmos” displaying the rare and exotic species that can be discovered here. There are in fact 100 of such species including the local “thé d’Aubrac” also known as the yellow gentian or mountain balm, as well as the carnivorous “drosera rotundifolia”. Such flora and fauna have given rise to botanical walks across the plateau.

As often when journeying through regions in France we could not end without a gastronomical discovery. The local economy is also based on the making of cheese which has a long history in the Aubrac dating as far back as the 12th century. Known as “Laguiole” it deservingly enjoys its “Appellation d’Origine Contolée” A.O.C. status. It is this excellent cheese which is the irreplaceable ingredient in the famous dish “aligot”. Aligot is the local speciality whose origins are from the hospitality the monks offered to pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. This hearty local dish is known as the “tour de force” and always present at village fetes or festive meals. With a glass of Aveyron’s Marcillac wine, what better reward after a good day skiing ?

Nav Vilain
Selection Habitat
+33 5 65 70 10 49
www.selectionhabitat.com
info@selectionhabitat.com

The Tarn-et-Garonne is the youngest of the 104 French departments situated discreetly in the heart of south-west France in the region Midi-Pyrenees. Blessed with three rivers the Tarn, the Garonne and the Aveyron and a stable climate with rain in spring and dry and sunny months after this is a wonderfully welcoming department with a relaxed and care-free feel. It was created in 1808 by Napoleon who had received a triumphant and grandiose welcome to the region. Legend has it that in order to define the border of this new territory Napoleon placed his hand on a map and drew around it to create the Tarn et Garonne. Take a look at the contour and you can see what vaguely resembles his thumb to the east ! Thus carving out chunks of neighbouring departments Lot, Aveyron, Tarn, Haute-Garonne, Gers and Lot et Garonne in clockwise direction around the capital town of the department which is Montauban.

This variety of geographical regions has given rise to a patchwork of diverse countryside. It is this diversity which makes the Tarn et Garonne a popular department. To the north lie the gentle foothills of the Massif Central, the centre is a contrast with its flat plains which break out towards the east into sudden, deep gorges dotted with numerous ancient villages. One of these villages is St Antonin de Noble Val which sits on the banks of the Aveyron and its valley. It is here in the Aveyron Gorges that exhilirating outdoor sports are enjoyed including canoe-kayaking, rock-climbing with sites equipped with the essentials, caves for pot-holing and mountain biking. St Antonin de Noble Val has also been described as « the St Tropez of South West France » and is a charming, friendly town with a popular local producer’s market on Sundays.

An important landmark in the Tarn et Garonne is the Abbey and Cloister in Moissac which is a staging post on the pilgrimage to St Jacques of Compostelle which since 1998 has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

« Fruits du Terroir »

Tarn et Garonne’s economy was dominated by agriculture however there has been a decline over the last few decades in this sector. Despite this decline the department is still the largest producer of greengages (« Reine-Claude » in french) which are the most eaten plum variety in France. The department also grows a massive 80 per cent of all the fruit grown in the entire Midi-Pyrénées.

Achitectural Highlights – The Pigeonniers

The « pigeonnier » or pigeon house is the emblem of the Tarn et Garonne. Pigeon-keeping was the privilege of the lords however after the French Revolution such privileges were extended to all classes. Construction of the pigeonniers was mainly between the 16th and 19th centuries. However now pigeonniers are being added on to properties now for their aesthetic appeal. There are 1000 pigeonniers in the department all boasting different styles, old and new and also restored and some in ruin waiting to be refurbished. There are a number of reasons why the pigeonniers were created. The droppings of the pigeons was used as a rich fertiliser particularly in the wine-producing regions where it was used to fertilize the vines. Up until World War I pigeons were used as « messengers » there is even a military pigeonnier in Albi. Pigeonniers were often also used for a daughter’s dowry. And of course another reason which is not a surprise is for meat especially of the younger birds.

Often the pigeonniers are set out alone as pigeons require peace and quiet to keep watch out for predators. It was also not advised that they be too close to the main property away from drinking water.

It’s Property Market

The Tarn et Garonne still continues to be a popular department and it is still possible to find a variety of properties types including stone farmhouses with outbuildings, properties with pigeonniers, however there are fewer properties to renovate now. Here is an example of a beautiful property to renovate which includes an attached pigeonnier and two terraces. This property was formerly the village school and has kept its original features. It is located 5km from a lake, 45 minutes from Toulouse and has views upon the Pyrénées. With 2500 m² of land this property costs 241 000 euros.

This an an exceptional price of just 168 000 euros for a house that is habitable and simply requires a bit of modernisation. It comes with several outbuildings, 4600 m² of land and a lovely view. However properties at this price are few and far between.

For those who are looking to renovate a property this is an example of a farmhouse set upon half a hecate of land. It includes a stone farmhouse, stone barn which has planning permission to convert into habitation and various other outbuildings. It has a wonderful location being at only 100 metres from the River Aveyron and also comes with 30 vines of its own ! It is also favourably situated close to St Antonin de Noble Val. The price is 233 000 euros.

There is a large choice of stone properties that have already been renovated. For instance this beautiful traditional stone built farmhouse from the Quercy costs 343 000 euros. It comes with a swimming pool, bread oven, 4700 m² of land and offers a beautiful view upon the countryside. Although it has not been used as a gite there is certainly the potential to create one bearing in mind that this area is popular with tourists from all over Europe.

The Tarn et Garonne is an attractive area in which to buy a property and will remain so for a number of reasons. The region is a popular area in terms of tourism and there will always be a healthy flow of tourists who visit the area but also who return to the area.

It is well located in terms of transport links and is only a one hour drive from Toulouse which offers international flights and a range of flights to the UK with low-cost and the traditional airlines. It is also not too far from Rodez Airport which serves flights to London Stansted. Many foreign purchases here are for those wanting to retire to the region however more and more families are relocating to this region for its warmth, friendliness and serenity.

Nav Vilain

Selection Habitat

+33 5 65 70 10 49

www.selectionhabitat.com

info@selectionhabitat.com

The romantic, rose-tinted scene of escaping to France and leaving your worries behind seems to be a life-long dream for hundreds around the world. Many have brought this dream into reality by selling up and buying a property in France and live happily ever after… However as very often the reality is somewhat different. Traditionally a large percentage of those moving to France were couples who had retired and relied on their pension as their income however more and more young families are setting up home here in France years before the retirement age and sometimes as early as in their 30s and with a young family to support. How to earn a living now becomes a serious issue. There are of course those who spend their time working between France and the UK to earn an income. For those without this choice is setting up a gite really a survival option ? This depends upon how seriously it is taken and how prepared you are. The idea of setting up a gite can be taken quite casually if you are not relying on it as an income but if it needs to be profitable then many factors must be taken into consideration.

Gite History

The term « gite » is literally translated as « shelter ». I was recently told by a friend with answers to everything that the idea of gites becoming a holiday home started after World War II. De Gaulle was disappointed to find that a large majority of French soldiers had not seen and did not know many parts of France. He created a concept to encourage French families to discover and experience the different regions and cultures within their own country. This lead to the creation of the gite where the owners would live close by in order to provide assistance and a warm welcome to their guests. As a benefit to all parties the costs were kept low with certain tax advantages were given. The first gite was set up in 1951 in the Alps and over 50 years later there are 44,000 rural gites throughout France.

What is a Gite

The gite is global term which can be divided into a number of different types of accommodation. A „gite rural“ is traditionally a cottage in the countryside, by the sea or in the mountains with self-catering accommodation in the form of a separate or attached living area with bathroom, kitchen and bedrooms all self-contained. The owners of the gite are in most cases on site but not usually on the same living quarters. This allows one to have privacy however having someone around the corner in case of any problems. There are other types of gites as well such as « gite d’enfants » targeted to children and « gite d’etape » which work very much like a youth-hostel. These are particular popular with walkers and cyclists especially those undetaking one of the pilgramage routes across France.

Today the gite has become a real business. Each year the number of gites in France increases with an additional 2500 gites per year. With a growing offer there is certainly more and more competition. On the encouraging side it is a fact that France is the most visited country in the world. With over 79 million visitors in 2006 giving France a huge lead over second place Spain at 58.5 million and the USA at 51 million. So the love affair with France continues.

What is involved in setting up a gite ?

Like any small or large business there will be a certain amount of planning, bureaucracy and tax implications. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that the gite complies with the rules and regulations. It is important to create a business plan in order to predict your annual turnover against your estimated expenses to conclude whether you can actually earn a living. The time you invest in the business plan is invaluable. Every cost must be taken into consideration from new bed linen to mortgage repayments. Once you have these figures at hand it is best to speak to your accountant (one who ideally knows the French sytem!) to establish the most suitable tax regime for you. The business can be set up as a MICRO BIC which is suited for small (micro) businesses or a SARL which is a larger business where you would be expected to pay corporate and income taxes. Again your accountant should be able to advise you here.

Existing gite versus start from scratch

There are two options now which is either to purchase an existing gite which already has an income or to start from scratch. Both should be looked into and compared for example purchasing an existing gite means that the business is probably already earning so that you can start an income straight away. However creating a gite from scratch involves writing your business plan, maybe renovation on the property, getting the gite up to standard to comply with the regulations and then marketing your gite. One other important factor to be taken into consideration is that if you intend to convert a barn into habitable acommodation, if it has not already been inhabited, you will be required to apply for planning permission. This is the case for all barns or ruins that are converted to living space. The application is known as a CU (certificate d’urbanisme). The process however is quicker if you want to set up a gite. This is because gites are encouraged by the local tourist board and planning authorities as they attract investment and tourism to the many regions of France some less known than others.

An example of recent gite owners Robert and Delia Nash who moved to the Aveyron a couple of years ago. There gite is located in the countryside yet close to Rodez Airport. They decided to convert what was a detached outbuilding into a 2-4 person gite. Such experiences are invaluable when researching into whether to set up a gite or not. Nothing can replace first hand knowledge.

Why did you choose to set up a gite business in France ?

We had no experience in hotel management, but knew what we liked whenever we stayed somewhere. So we felt that if we could provide this quality of service, we would get regular and appreciative guests.

What was your greatest challenge when setting up your Gite in Fabregues ?

Getting the gite ready on-time. Coordinating with the builders, then decorating and furnishing to enable us to take the photographs to put up on the website before our market started looking for their summer holidays.

Is the business as seasonal as you expected it to be ?

We had hoped that it would be “all seasons”. We are prepared for this with heating in the gite etc, but we don’t seem to attract customers who wish to holiday during the winter. They obviously don’t appreciate how crisp and wonderful it is out here during the winter.

What advice would you give to anyone hoping to do the same ?

Advice 1: Make friends with as many people as you can both French and English in the area. Don’t worry; most people are keen to talk to you. They will be your lifeline when you need advice or assistance.

Advice 2: Don’t underestimate your budget, in fact, you should think what you need to spend – then double it!

What is your best bit of marketing advice ?

Look at the internet and advertising agencies as though you were a prospective client. If you feel that your holiday gite could be found within its pages then advertise with them.

We feel that some agencies are too large and for example a 2/4 person gite would get lost amongst a brochure full of large homes sleeping 8 persons with pool etc. So ensure that you target to your correct audience.

Purchasing a gite in the Aveyron.

An important consideration is getting into the region. Aveyron is fortunate to have flights into Rodez Airport from London and Dublin and Toulouse and Montpellier airports have a vast range of international flights both at about 1.5hours drive.

Aveyron’s agrcultural heritage allows for what could be said to be a perfect gite complex. This includes the traditional beautiful stone-built farmhouses for the owners on a plot of land with the outbuildings converted into secondary residences for the guests.

This gite complex is currently up and running. Situated in a central location in the Aveyron with good access to the lakes this complex consists of 4 fully equipped gites and 2 bed and breakfast rooms. It also has its separate owner’s property with 3 bedrooms as well as a large barn which has been converted into a communal games room. Complete with its own pool and an 80m2 training room for 499 000euros.

Here is an example of a complex of four up and running prestigious gites and the main farmhouse set upon 7 hectares of land with two swimming pools. The current owner is retiring and therefore selling the entire business and property and all the furniture too. It also has an exceptional view on the countryside and the valley, perfect for relaxation. This luxury gite is on the market at 675 000euros. The income figures iare available for those interested.

For those searching for a property yet to be converted into a gite there are two fantastic properties here both of which would make great gites. This property consists of a main house with 3 bedrooms and a farmhouse to restore and a beautiful, well-kept garden. Although in the countryside it is within walking distance from a lively market town. Priced at 290 000 euro including agency fees.

For something a little different how about converting this secluded watermill into a gite.
There are 3 buildings in total all of which are in excellent condition and water and electricity are connected for a mere 230 000euros.

Niche Markets and the future for gites

The market has certainly become more competitive however there is certainly a future for gites in this part of France. However potential and current gite owners must now « think outside the box » to provide something different from what all is already offered. The most recent property hunter I have talked to is looking to set up a « Yoga Retreat » hosting 10 guests at a time with a large yoga studio, an organic vegetable plot and large kitchen for communal dinners. Hanneke and Tony Herbert (who live in Mur de Barrez) new exactly what they wanted to create from the word go. They purchased a property here in the Aveyron and whilst living in their farmhouse they took on huge renovations to convert their large barn into a stunning 5-star rural gite. The results are outstanding although it can be a long and tough process. There are also gites catered towards sports enthusiasts and seminars.

Holiday makers are becoming more demanding and what with the choice available now you need to stand out and get the property out there. If the formula is right, the marketing is creative then the holiday makers will hopefully find you and your gite and be back for more.

Nav Vilain
Selection Habitat
+33 (0) 5 65 70 10 49
nav@selectionhabitat.com
www.selectionhabitat.com