Property in Limousin and the Auvergne
Known as 'La France Profonde' (deep France), Limousin and the Auvergne has also been described as France 's 'Wild West'. The volcanic landscape is breathtaking, with villages such as Orcival rivalling any in the country for character. Winter woollies are required but it may be worth it for the best value (and cheapest) property in France . The improved motorway links have made the Auvergne a recent target for bargain hunters, but this is a thinly populated area so the buyer may find himself exploring far from the beaten track.
The Limousin has lakes, gorges and forests. For la vie tranquille it scores at the top of the scale and its colourful capital, Limoges , is steeped in history. As with the Auvergne , prices are low but beginning to climb as the British discover it.
Advantages Rural beauty and solitude, best bargains in property
The downside Access, short sharp winters, British enclaves
