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BASTILLE DAY IN THE ROANNAIS by Brian Franklin
Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité!!!
Well, I thought I would just add a note to commemorate the recent celebrations in Roanne on the famous 14th July.
For the first time I watched the magnificent firework display at close range. All organised for the event on the the Pont du Coteau in Roanne, over the Loire river, near Roanne Port.
At a cost of over 30,000 euros(approx. £24,000), the local community certainly mean business when it comes to investing in one of their most celebrated days of the year!
Of course, the results were impressive. I watched the fantastic display from the balcony of my French friends' apartment (7 floors up!). With an absolutely spectacular view of the town and bridge, and, therefore, of the dramatic display.
The dazzling show lasted about 30 minutes.
Well worth the effort!
The storming of the Bastille in Paris occurred on 14th July, 1789.
While the medieval fortress and prison, known as The Bastille contained only seven prisoners, its fall was the flashpoint of the French Revolution, and it subsequently became an icon of the French Republic.
In France, Le quatorze juillet (14th July) is a public holiday, formally known as the Féte de la Fédération (Federation Holiday). It is usually called Bastille Day in English.
TROISGROS – THEIR NEW RESTAURANT NEAR ROANNE, RHÔNE-ALPES
The restaurant, La Maison Troisgros in the centre of Roanne, in the Roannais, Rhone-Alpes region is famous, of course, for its culinary success for over 40 years! This 3-Michelin-starred restaurant is an ultimate gastronomic experience.
Marie-Pierre and Michel Troisgros, however, have recently ventured into the nearby region of Bourgogne where they have just opened a new restaurant (in fact, their 3rd one in the area), called La Colline du Colombier.
According to some of the local information, and the Troisgros website, this has been both a project of the heart as well as of business!
They have fallen in love with the natural beauty of the region's countryside, and this ancient farm which now houses a superb new restaurant (an auberge, actually, which means an 'inn' in English).
Purefrancenow has visited the site during recent months and has monitored its progress with great anticipation!
It has been developing with exceptional care and attention to detail.
The Troisgros's description of this new 'gem' clearly demonstrates a new approach to combining cooking and lifestyle, with a personal commitment to the sensitive preservation of an ancient farm, and it's nostalgic reflection of a traditional, but past way of life.
" La Colline du Colombier near the little village of Iguerande is 15 km from Roanne, towards Burgundy.
It overlooks the Loire and the canal nearby, and is surrounded by pastures, home to the famous Charolais breed of cattle.
The farm is perched on the heights of Iguerande on the edge of the Charolais, and this incredible location is being turned into a living space – changing everyday as work progresses to craft this beautiful place into a sanctuary for eating, living, and pure enjoyment.
In the garden, 200 species of plants and trees have already been planted, particularly a collection of Cornus, under the expert guidance of artist-botanist Lilliana Motta.
She has preserved the existing vegetation while restructuring the external aspects of the property, and creating a new perspective on the splendid countryside.
With the help of architect, Patrick Bouchain, Marie-Pierre and Michel Troisgros have transformed the original farm, being careful to preserve its natural history and idyll.
The site consists of 3 buildings:-
The big barn, which once housed the animals, has been transformed into an Inn (Auberge) with 60 covers.
A small building of Loire stone has become the reception area.
Further away, the farmhouse and its tower (an original dovecote) have been fitted out to house two families of four.
On the hillside they have built 3 "Cadoles", small houses on piles. Made of wood, steel, and Canvas, they are conceived as big balconies overlooking nature"
The description of this wonderful place, which the Troisgros's are breathing fresh life into, emphasises a real conservation approach to the whole project. It is obviously intended for the place to continue to develop and 'grow' organically over time – almost like nature itself!
" Marie-Pierre and Michel's aim was to restore the buildings without losing their soul. Stone and cob walls were repaired, as were the beams and roofs. They maintained their rural simplicity while adding an element of contemporary contrast and interior modern comfort.
The building work has taken a long-term conservation approach that has preserved the existing structures and landscape.
They have favoured the use of natural materials such as wool and cork insulation, and wall coverings in hemp felt and leather.
The Inn's atmosphere is intimate and magical.
Its wood beams are sensational, the kitchen workshop is open-to-view, the tables are arranged around a large wooden chimney, the glass chandeliers have been created by the artist Jean Lautrey.
The walls have been left in their original form, creating a 'mineral' mosaic.
Small openings frame and emphasise a landscape of beautiful farmland criss-crossed by hedges and trees.
The existing land, bordered by hedgerows and traditional wood fences, is planted with beech, honeysuckle and hawthorn.
These cut through the landscape, creating a series of gardens that frame the view of this hilly countryside"
"To breathe new life into an abandoned spot, to feel the peace and quiet of a beautiful countryside, to welcome guests simply, but perfectly – little-by-little the Troisgros's project has taken shape"
La Colline Colombier was opened during June 2008.
Reservations for Accommodation – Telephone: 0033 603583045
Reservations for the Auberge – Telephone: 0033 3858407
LYON – A TOURIST’S HEAVEN IN THE RHÔNE-ALPES by Lucy Franklin
A friend asked me the other day whether or not I considered Lyon to be a tourist destination in it's own right.
Having 'done' other major European capitals she wondered if it was worth spending the weekend in France's second city, or not.
Like many people the only part of Lyon that she had encountered was it's airport-Saint Exupery, en route to the South of France or ski destinations in the Alps.
The question itself had taken me by surprise, as my husband, Brian, and I had always loved spending time in Lyon, considering it a treat akin to a weekend in London or Paris.
When we first began our love affair with France whilst renovating our first original holiday home, some 13 years ago, so derelict was our 'Stables', and so tempting was the sophistication and ambience of Lyon, that we would jet over to make some major decisions with our property then drive the hour and ten minutes to Lyon so that we could spend 2 or 3 nights there.
We loved it, and still do. Although now we have our second holiday home up and fully functioning we find fewer excuses to spend the night there.
That, of course, certainly doesn't stop us from going for a day out!
Lyon has so much to offer, so where to start!?
I think, as with most views of the city, the place to begin is the highest vantage point. The truely breath-taking Basilica of the Notre Dame, perched magestically high on the hill of Fourviere, directly above the old town (Vieux 
Lyon).
Lyon).Once you have ascended to the dizzy heights overlooking the city,(you can either climb by foot or there is a brilliant funicular railway to take the strain off your feet!) the views are to 'die' for!
All is laid out for you to see, the picturesque terracotta tile-roofed buildings creating a 'toy town' appearence and spreading between and beyond the two major rivers that cut through this city (the Saône and the Rhône).
At this vantage point you are on the western side of the Saône, below are the medieval turrets and towers of the old town, a fantastic maze of cafe and restaurant-lined streets with tiny shops and ancient courtyards.
Between the two great rivers lies the commercial area-fabulous shops, beautiful streets, and yet more bars, cafes and restaurants, theatres, galleries. And, early each morning, along the Quai Celestins the most fantastic market. But make sure you get there early, as by one o'clock all is being efficiently and quickly tidied away.
Along this riverside, on the Quai Celestins, nestling amid lots of interesting little shops is a real treasure called Antoine au Jardin.
A wonderful emporium owned by a couple who we have got to know over the years. Katherine and Herve sell beautiful hand-made furniture, lighting and tableware. They have a real eye for style, and their collection of baskets, vases, candles and the like, make perfect mementoes or gifts for home. We have certainly spent a few euros there in our time!
On the far side of the second river, the Rhône, can be seen the modern towers of the financial district and the university. Then in the far distance, to the east, are the snow-capped Alps and Mont Blanc.
On a clear blue-sky day, the most amazing view!
Back to the Notre Dame, this is only one of many churches in this city, but it is certainly the most impressive.
It's creamy white, architecturally ornate form, when viewed from the streets below, reveals the most amazing detail when you get close- it is stunning!
Then once inside, the interior truly takes your breath away, the mosaic ceilings are second to none. In my opinion the most beautiful church I have ever visited.
If you investigate further, within walking distance of the Notre Dame there are Roman ruins including an ampitheatre, and gallo-roman museum. (A separate route on the funicular railway also takes you there directly.)
You can travel, too, on a picturesque river boat along the Saône, lunch during the day or dine in the evening, taking in the sights.
The zoo at Parc D'Or is also well worth a visit if you have small children. Then there is the famous Opera House, the Museum of Modern Art and so much more.
Visit the Tourist Information Offices, one at the foot of the Funicular railway, and another in the beautiful open space of the Place de Bellecour to find out more, and also to pick up maps and information about local events and festivals.
I think that it's safe to say that the answer to the original question is very definitely 'yes', Lyon is certainly well worth a trip in it's own right!!
In fact, Purefrancenow are currently offering excellent, special 'luxury gourmet week-ends' in the Rhône-Alpes, which include superb overnight stays in Lyon and the Côte-Roannais.
So, take a look at their website www.purefrancenow.com for initial details or e-mail them direct at: info@purefrancenow.com
PUREFRANCENOW – AN UNFORGETTABLE TIME IN THE ROANNAIS!
Purefrancenow are offering a superb special occasion and celebration reception and party service in the Roannais, Rhône-Alpes.
This includes exclusive wedding receptions, anniversaries, special celebrations, business or club parties, gourmet week-ends, and inspirational luxury breaks throughout the region.
All tailor-made to suit the occasion, the budget, and any special individual requirements.
Purefrancenow can also combine any occasion or event with various sport or leisure activities, and visits to the regions finest cities, such as Lyon, Vichy, and Annecy.
This includes brilliant overnight stays in top quality hotels, and chateaux. Plus dining out in famous 3-Michelin starred restaurants, and experiencing incredible gastronomic delights in many other regional eateries of high local reputation.
The pure magic of the Rhone-Alpes, and the Côte Roannaise in particular, and all it has to offer, is simply amazing.
After explaining your requirements and particular interests, let Purefrancenow organise a special itinerary for you, including all accommodation and travel arrangements in France.
An unforgettable time will be had by all!
For example, let Purefrancenow take some of the strain, but give you all of the pleasure of a superbly organised private event at the 15th century Chateau de Champlong in the beautiful Côte Roannaise.
Or, alternatively, come and experience the opportunity of a little 'taste' of grand luxury and exquisite cuisine on one of our introductory special ' 'Luxury week-ends' or 'Luxury 3-day breaks'.
Enjoy the wonderful Chateau de Champlong, the gardens, golf, and exceptional cuisine.
But, much, much more…
The delights of the Côte Roannaise are on your doorstep. This is France's most renowned gastronomic region with exquisite cuisine, fine wines, and wonderful hospitality. Beautiful countryside, vineyards, medieval villages, and the wonders of the river La Loire.
So, Purefrancenow will develop your private celebation party or themed reception, for either individuals, club, or business. Purefrancenow will liaise closely with you to ensure that your special day or week-end is a perfect success.
For more details on all Purefrancenow Services visit www.purefrancenow.com Or to make an enquiry send an e-mail to info@purefrancenow.com
THE FAMOUS ‘J.LEBLANC’ OILS IN THE ROANNAIS by Lucy Franklin
Yet another jewel to set the crown of the Roannais region, in the Rhône-Alpes, sparkling even more!
From our little village of Perreux, you can reach the famous Huilerie J.Leblanc within 20 minutes, or so.
If you travel along the D17 in the direction of Vougy, then onto the D982 through Poully Sous Charlieu,(by the way, on the left, just before the cross roads, there is a Boulangerie making fantastic artisan bread!) you will find yourself in the department of Burgundy and its most southerly village, Iguerande, in Bourgogne.
Drive slowly, or there is a danger that you will miss the most unassuming little shop front.
It hides a wonderfully antiquated interior, crammed from floor to ceiling with hand made olive oils, vinegars, mustards, and much more.
Peer through the open doorway into the office at the rear of the building and you will realise that the whole premises are a step back in time to a much more refined era.
Huilerie Leblanc is no ordinary business.
Begun in 1878 by Jean Leblanc, in this very building. The family are still producing the highest quality, small batch, hand-crafted nut oils using the original stone press.
As there is no large storage facility, the production takes place to order, ensuring the very best and freshest nut oils in the world.
If you are lucky enough to visit, once inside the shop, Madame, or Monsieur Leblanc (great grandson and wife) will let you sample the oils, and believe me, you will be spoilt for choice; from walnut to pistachio, almond to hazelnut the flavours are divine, and along with the vinegars, mustards and tapinades you can get carried away.
If you are looking for a special present to take home, a basket can be put together full of delights.
I find it difficult to believe that such a business could ever survive in its original form in the UK. Seemingly untouched by commercialism, the Leblancs' have never sold out to big business, subsequently maintaining their integrity and respect, not only from Michelin stared restaurateurs, but also from amateur cooks and foodies throughout France and world wide.
It goes without saying, the 3 Michelin starred, Troisgros Restaurant of Roanne, chooses to use Leblancs products. As their only other shop is in Paris, to have their main premises just down the road from us, is yet another example of just how rich and diverse the culinary delights of the region are.
For 4 generations, J.LEBLANC and sons have kept the culinary arts alive at their oil mill with a selection of products offering a genuine, authentic flavour.
Ancestral skills and traditions, passed down from father to son, guarantee the quality and distinctive identity of every trickle of oil, fresh from the press! 
J.LEBLANC
Headquarters and Shop
71340 Iguerande, France
Paris Shop
6, rue Jacob, Paris
www.huile-leblanc.com