The Limousin is often called the "heart" of France as it's centrally located within the country. As such, it is an ideal base from which to explore the vast array of diverse cultures, traditions and lifestyles that make France what it is, although many who visit the region never want to leave it!
This part of France is also referred to as the French "Lake District" as it includes a number of large leisure lakes. Whilst rarely crowded with people, they are used by locals and tourists for swimming, sailing, fishing or just sun bathing on their shores. The lakes are fed by a network of rivers which not only enhance the natural beauty of the region but also, in their turn, support fishing and canoeing activities. The area caters for most tastes and its topography varies from rolling forested hills and mountains in the east through to gentle river valleys and undulating countryside in the west.
Limousin is one of the most sparsely populated areas in France. Working the land is by far the largest industry in the area. Limousin is particularly famous for its beef and the prevailing sight in the countryside are the rich, red/brown herds of Limousin cattle peacefully grazing the lush, green pastures of the region. The other main source of employment is the tourist industry. Despite the wonderful climate and beautiful countryside, this is still in its infancy but is growing steadily as more and more people discover the tranquil delights of Limousin. The area is also renowned for its Limoges porcelain and if you're a collector, there are some real bargains to be had from several outlet stores across the region.
Wherever you are in Limousin, you are never too far away from a picture perfect, traditional French town or village that epitomises the French way of life. This is an area where the locals still sit outside quaint bars sipping pastis and putting the world to rights; where all you can hear on a still summers evening is the clunk of the petanque balls and where, as you drive along the local lanes, you wonder where all the other traffic is.
The climate here reflects the countryside and the people. It is gentle and temperate. It can get cold in the short winters but they are generally characterised by sharp, frosty mornings and sunny days. Summers are long and warm, even hot, but they are not spoiled by the energy sapping humidity that can be present the further south you venture.
Read the full article on our Long Term Limousin Lets page.About the Author: Mark Russell is founder of Limousin Homes - The specialists in French real estate and property sales in the Limousin region of France. For more information visit the Limousin Homes website at http://www.limousinhomes.com
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