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‘LA CLAYETTE’ IN THE BRIONNAIS, NEAR THE ROANNAIS! by Lucy Franklin
Just a wonderful discovery! La Clayette in Bourgogne (Burgundy), the Brionnais, is an unassuming township (rather than just a village) with an amazing (still privately-owned) chateau as the central and main feature of the town.
It is a chateau with evident and obvious 'attitude', ancient, classic, and 'repunzle' type! A familial statement of authority, wealth, and power! Landed gentry and an air of aristocracy permeates through every granite stone of the battlements and walls of the place.
It is surprising, of course, that the French Revolution's hordes of local 'paysanne' did not destroy its original nobility, and , therefore, the heritage of its current family owners.
Perhaps, the current owners are really 'nouvelle riches', modern-day 'bourgeoisie', and not true, direct descendants of the guillotined mortalities of the past.
However, this musing is irrelevant in the sense that the Chateau in La Clayette is certainly an amazing historical statement, and a beautiful, magical wonder of a bygone age, set 'smack' 'bang' in the middle of this tranquil township of the Brionnais.
It is simply stunning!
Now, if there is one thing that living in France teaches you it is to make sure that you are well informed as to when villages and towns are holding their 'Fêtes' or 'Spectacles'.
It can be very irritating to arrrive for a wander and find that you have missed some event by one or two days.
La Clayette is a large village in southern Burgundy, approximately 45 minutes away from our base in Perreux, near Roanne. La Clayette, like most villages, holds week-end events throughout the year, and on this particular Sunday the final day of a show-jumping event was taking place in the beautiful chateau grounds.
We headed off just before lunchtime, taking a cross-country route, off the main roads, from the village of Iguerande across rolling countryside with incredible views and vistas around every corner.
We were travelling through the Brionnais. I was endeavouring to make a mental note of all the little villages we travelled through so that we might visit on another journey out.
You can also get easily to La Clayette by a more direct route through Charlieu and Chateauneuf, (both of which are worthy of a stop-over)
La Clayette is extremely pretty, with shop-lined little streets climbing up from the turretted Chateau, (parts of which date back to the 13th Century), and its large lake.
There are cafes and bars intermingled with 'Brocante', Antique, Art and Artisan shops.
Before we ventured into the chateau grounds we decided to lunch at a little bistro directly facing the chateau, called 'La belle Epoche'. We had visited this place a few weeks before, and they serve a great 'steak au Charolaise et pomme frites'. (This, of course, is also the region famed for its breed of Charolais cows).
Now, I'm not known for my love of horses (and certainly not riding them!). I have always believed them to be far too big, intelligent and 'knowing' to then insult them by climbing onto their backs,(okay, I admit it, I'm scared of them!). On the other hand, Brian believes himself to have some of the genetic spirit of John Wayne or Clint Eastward inside him, and finds it difficult to resist having an occasional ride even though he usually comes close to death every time!
This aside, both of us appreciate the attraction of a well-groomed horse, along with a well-groomed expert rider, (especially in Brian's case, when he has the tendency to 'oggle' at the prettier, young female riders immaculately turned out and poured into tight white jodphurs and high leather boots!).
And so to the main reason for our visit. ' CONCOURS HIPPIQUE', organised by the French society for horse show-jumping.
By the time we entered the concours through the very impressive main gates of the chateau, the afternoon equestrian events were just about to start with introductory background music made up of 'chanson Francais' and Eric Clapton!
As seems so typical over here, this was a very well organised, professional affair, but also extremely relaxed and family-friendly (almost like a local garden fete in the Cotswolds!).
There were several marquees, including a bar tent, and a home-made ice-cream stall, various stands selling all sorts of 'horsey type' products, and an exhibition of local art and crafts. There was, of course, the obligatory food tent which had been serving regional delicacies for lunch, and were now diverting their attentions to the preparation of afternoon crepes and waffles.
We settled down close to the main arena as the first competitors were assessing the various jumps.
Nothing compares to watching these types of events at first hand, and close-up. The horses were well-bred, fit, groomed and sleek, shining in the afternoon sun with their platted manes and equally well turned out riders.
These were obviously people with ability and style, and it was a pleasure to watch their serious competition. We really felt a part of the whole event, getting very excited at each clear round – which, to be fair, were very few and far between. We squinted through the sunlight at the electronic scoreboard to verify the marks and name of horse and rider.
We marvelled at the ability of some of the riders, and sympathised with ones that occasionally fell at the jump. I'm glad to say that there were no serious injuries to either horse or rider, and the whole competition was held in an extremely amicable and a characteristically French 'laid- back' way.
There was much music, and lots of 'people watching', particularly the local aristocrats, and the 'horsey set', and the odd lady and gentleman in their equivalent 'Sunday best'.
We stayed until after the formal presentations of trophies for the rider, and rosettes for the horses, and left at about 5 O'clock – although it was obvious that the event was carrying on well into the evening.
What a day! It was fantastic! And I think we will definitely be booking it in again for next year!
BEIJING OLYMPICS IN THE ROANNAIS! by Brian Franklin
What a games! What a performance by Team GB!
Yes we're here in France, and have been watching all the action every morning.
I could not resist adding our congratulations here on the Purefrancenow 'Blog' and emphasising our support for all the British Team's very successful efforts. Well done!!
The best British Olympic results for 100 years, and virtually every day a British gold medal being won.
Much to the chagrin of our French locals!
It makes a change that we have done so well on the Sporting World Stage this time.
19 Golds, 13 Silver, and 15 Bronze – 47 Olympic medals in total! Finishing in 4th position overall.
And remarkably, during most of the games we were in 3rd place, with China 1st and America 2nd.
Let's hope that we do just as well in the London Olympics 2012 !!
‘LE CROZET’ IN THE ROANNAIS By Lucy Franklin
During this August on a Friday (yet another Saint's Day and Bank Holiday here in France!), we decided to set off to investigate a little village nearby called Le Croset. In fact, only 20 minutes or so up the RN7, nestled at the far end of the Monts de la Madeleine, in the Côte Roannaise.
Although we knew that Le Crozet was locally renowned as a beautiful, quaint, 10th century village, we had never actually visited it! Even though we had always recommended a visit to our guests!!
It is just like in the UK, you often have amazing places on your doorstep, like the Lake District near our home in Saddleworth, but you rarely visit the place despite being less than an hour's drive away.
However, this time we were determined to take a serious look at Le Crozet to find out what all the fuss was about!
We also expected, and were fully prepared, as is often the case, for the whole village to be on 'shut-down' particularly during the summer as well as on a French bank holiday.
A surprise and a delight was, however, in store for us!
As you climb up from Pacaudiere along the lush country lanes, you enter this once important, busy, fortified hill village, sleepily lying within the folds of the hillside with the plain of the River La Loire stretching out below.
The Views are stunning, especially when you climb 'The Keep'.
This tower was originally built in the 12th century by the viscounts of Mâcon, and stands about 12 metres high.
It is topped by a bell tower or turret, because the old church had no steeple, and, therefore, no bells.
From the esplanade which lies at the foot of 'The Keep', on a clear day you can see as far as the Morvan and Beaujolais mountains, and the town of Tarare.
We peeped into the so-called 'new' church which stands beside 'The keep', and was constructed in 1862 on the site of the original castle, and discovered that preparations were being made for a wedding the following day – what a magical setting!
We then headed down to the museum, housed in a 15th century building, also with a tower.
This little museum offers a wonderful insight into village life during the 1900's, and is full of local information and artefacts.
When you enter the various rooms of this museum you are in a different world – different era, a bygone age, of course. There is even Le Crozet's original blacksmith's, complete with furnace, bellows and tools. In another room you have a fascinating display of carpenter tools, particularly ones used for the making of clogs or 'sabots).
Above all, however, it was the collection of old-framed maps through the centuries and fantastic photographs that kept us enthralled.
There are also original deeds of purchase from the village, some dating back to the 15th century, along with books and local records through the ages.
The whole village is so pretty, especially in the summer with an abundance of flowers everywhere.
The exceptional medieval wonder of Le Crozet is superb, particularly on a sunny day, as this was, when the sunlight emphasises the colours, structures, and textures of the ancient buildings – all with secret histories hidden behind their medieval walls.
It is a simply beautiful and fascinating place.
As you wander through the tiny streets there are stunning buildings round every corner, oozing history.
Although many of its buildings have been carefully and beautifully renovated, there are still one or two that are crying out for a little 'TLC', and are definite renovation opportunities – very tempting!!
However, Le Crozet is not just a 'showpiece' 'museum' of a village, it is a living, breathing, lively community.
A community of probably many related families of the past whose heritage is being carefully and sympathetically preserved.
Well worth a good stroll around when you visit the Roannais.
Also take a look at our other 'Blogs' for more information about the Roannais, Rhône-Alpes region, and visit our Purefrancenow Escape Days for a special trip to Le Crozet, canal ride, and traditional restaurant.
LE BONHEUR EST DANS LE PRÉ IS SOUTH WEST IN THE ROANNAIS!
Purefrancenow has once again visited this bright and breezy restaurant in Roanne, run by Fabrice and Sabine. Totally dedicated to the wonderful cuisine of the south west of France, the colourful and eclectic interior reflects the warmth of the south west of France, and the food is a delight.
Le Bonheur is welcoming and tremendous fun, and Fabrice, Chef de Cuisine, and his wife, Sabine make a great team, and the convivial,moody atmosphere is enchanting.
Fabrice is also locally renowned for offering an occasional complimentary Armagnac, as an end of meal digestif!
Specialities include: Liver, Duck, and 'Cassoulet'
Their 'Menu découverte de la Gascogne' at only 34€ is superb:
Aperitif "le Pousee -rapiere"
Créme d'oranges à l'armagnac avec un pétillant
Assiette Gasconne
Foie gras maison mi-cuit
Magret séche et Terrine de canard á l'Armagnac
Demi magret de canard
Sauce au foie gras pommes de terre gersoises
Fromage des Pyrénées
Croustade gersoise
Their extensive wine list, much from the south west of France, is also excellent.
So, when you are in town (Roanne, that is) you must go!
There is more information on Le Bonheur est dans le Pré in the new Purefrancenow Regional Directory – Restaurant Directory
‘LE CUVAGE’ IN THE NEWS, IN THE ROANNAIS!
Yes, 'Le Cuvage' is in the news.
Purefrancenow can announce that 'Connexions' newspaper for British people living in France has just published an article in their August 2008 edition on 'Le Cuvage' from information and pictures supplied by Brian Franklin.
Brian Franklin is also currently writing a fuller, more detailed version as an ongoing monthly 'Diary' in French Property News.
The first of these articles has now been published in their September edition. which was released for sale on 20th August, and explains how Brian and Lucy discovered the Roannais, and bought their first property, a derelict stables set in the original grounds of the Chateau des Cresses, which they subsequently renovated and converted as their first 'project' in France.
Purefrancenow will also be publishing a special article on 'Le Cuvage' and its restoration and conversion very soon.
So watch this space!
These editorials basically explain how 'Le Cuvage was discovered, renovated and converted into 3 high quality homes, and tells the story of how Brian and Lucy Franklin together with their French friends, Adeline Vu Van and Jean Francois Bretton, used a locally renowned French architect, Daniel Faisant, to design and develop this original wine-making barn ('Pressoir').
It is a testament to successful Anglo-French co-operation, including clever, practical design, and good French workmanship.
“LA ROCADINE” RESTAURANT RE-VISITED IN THE ROANNAIS
"La Rocadine" has been re-visited again by Purefrancenow during the summer, and we have found that this superb, easy-going, restaurant, run by man and wife team – Jérôme and Mélanie Sadot – is going from strength to strength.
With new exterior styling, garden entrance, and striking art graphics on the walls. Perfectly located for both lunch and evening dining, whether for business, family, or leisure.
This is a sincere recommendation to an excellent restaurant, and in typical Jérôme style his menu and presentation is traditional French, but with contemporary and original styling.
A winning combination along with the sourcing and use of high quality, regional produce. It's a good sign when you can regularly see so many local French people eating and enjoying themselves here!
Visit the new Purefrancenow Regional Directory of recommended restaurants for more information – Purefrancenow Directory The Rocadine menu is as good as ever!
Prices range from 12 € to 34€. Their menu goumet is very good:
Foie gras maison au chutney de fruits frias
Thon grillé amoureux d'une belle niçoise
Filet de boeuf aux morilles gratin forézien
Fromage sec ou Fromage blanc
Assiette goumande
BUSINESS EVENT SOLUTIONS IN THE RHÔNE-ALPES
Purefrancenow offers a superbly effective dedicated, and totally co-ordinated, 'Destination Event Management Service' in the Roannais and Rhone-Alpes regions of France.
Through our Corporate Hospitality Event resources, partnerships, and contacts in France we are able to provide creative, original, cost-effective solutions for successful, tailored business events.
We are particularly geared to creating event opportunities for UK businesses wanting something different for their customers or management, and also for promoting their products and services in France.
This includes all aspects of Corporate Hospitality, Product Launches, Press Shows, Trade and Consumer Exhibitions, Conferences, Seminars, and Team-Building Activity Programmes.
Purefrancenow provide a professional, 'hands-on' service with full co-ordination, prject control, and liaison for special corporate and business events, both large and small.
Whether you require an 'all singing and dancing' corporate gala event, or a smaller, but special seminar or conference, or an original venue and themed approach for a customer hospitality event or staff party, Purefrancenow are able to organise and manage your total requirements, efficiently and cost-effectively.
We believe in a 'team approach' with all our clients.
Only with agreed and shared aims is an effective and successful event assured.
Detailed client discussion, briefing, and joint planning is absolutely essential.
Purefrancenow endeavours to understand your full business remit, specific marketing objectives, and event aims before providing any event concepts and proposals.
An informal, but structured approach is operated:
1. Client Business and Objectives Assessment
2. Detailed Brief Preparation
3. Creative Concept Proposal and Recommendations
4. Detailed Cost Estimation/Budget Requirement
5. Venue Assessments/ Visit
6. Recommended Ancillary Activities and Services
7. Post-Event Analysis Report
For more information please visit our dedicated website www.purefrancenow.com
NEW LOOK FOR ‘PUREFRANCENOW’ IN THE ROANNAIS
www.purefrancenow.com – Business Events, Club and Group Activities, Property, and Holidays in the Roannais, Rhône-Alpes.
We have recently completed some new additions to our website. New pages. New information. New opportunities.
Due to the success of our site's impact and high quality and quantity responses during the last year, the friendly, easy-access of our site with great regional images has been retained, but with a 'difference'.
Superb new images have now been included from renowned local Roannais photographers Jean Guy Lathuiliere and Stephane Archambault.
Brand new sections covering new services for business, club, and group event organisation, activities and holidays.
Purefrancenow are also offering special event services for wedding receptions, anniversaries, family celebrations, and other special occasions. Private and Corporate Receptions
Superb, tailor-made 'Gourmet' week-ends, and 3-day mid-week breaks in the Roannais, Rhône-Alpes are also on offer for that anniversary or birthday surprise, or just simply for pure pleasure!
So we hope that all who visit www.purefrancenow.com will be impressed, and encouraged to investigate the opportunities presented a little further, and contact us direct for more information.
See you soon!