Innovative property investments
Investment Property in France
Buying Guide
Introduction
The French enigma
La Belle France, UK's closest neighbour, is still something of an enigma to the Brits.
In many people, the country and its people provoke an image of idyllic rural life, less stress, functional family life and some of the most beautiful countryside on the planet.
In others, the impression is more one of arrogance, Gallic indifference, a fondness for strikes and a culture and way of life almost impenetrable to outsiders.
Whichever side of the fence you stand, the British find the French fascinating.
Geographic diversity
France is one of the original, and most popular, destinations for buying property abroad and the market remains fresh and interesting.
You just have to choose where to buy and the diversity is incredible.
North-eastern plains
Much of the north-east is flat and level, and provides the majority of France's agriculture and industry.
The almost boundless plains are spectacular in their emptiness and have a climate not dissimilar from the UK, with cold, wet winters and warm and sometimes humid summers.
Brittany and Normandy
Further to the west in Brittany and Normandy, the climate is similar, with higher temperatures in the summer, and more significant winter rains off the Atlantic Ocean.
The undulating and rolling landscape are also reminiscent of the UK and make this a true 'home from home' for the many British people who settle here.
Atlantic coast to Massif Central
The Atlantic coast is one of the wildest parts of the country still remaining.
The natural beaches and swamps that head southwards towards Bordeaux and beyond to the border with Spain can sometime suffer high winds, but in summer benefit from long hours of sunshine.
As you head inland from here, the hills begin to rise into the Loire Valley, and further south to the rolling hills and valleys of the Dordogne, as well as the remote Limousin and the mountains of the Massif Central.
The Alps
In the east of France, the Alps rise majestically towards Switzerland, Italy and Germany across the borders, and are home to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps.
The winter season usually allows skiing from November until around April. Summer in the Alps is hot and clear.
Provence
The Alps stretch right down into Provence, and end a short distance from the Mediterranean coast.
This classic holiday home destination is dramatically mountainous right along the coastline, save for the swampy natural park of the Littoral, and has great beaches and long hot summers.
With its proximity to the mountains, it is not unknown to have snow right down to the coastline, but this is rare in the temperate climate.
The Pyrenees
The Pyrenees are the other major mountain region in France, and separate her from Spain to the south.
The climate here allows both extensive skiing and a long summer season.
Key facts
- Population: 60,876,136
- Area (km2): 547,030
- Capital: Paris
- Languages: French, with many regional dialects
- Religion: Around 85% Roman Catholic
- Currency: Euro
- Dialling Code: +33
- High Season: Summer season from May to late September, winter skiing season usually from November until April, depending on altitude
- Happy Planet Index: 129th / 178
- Big Mac Index: 3.77 USD (EuroZone)
Downloadable Reports and Documents
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