ROANNE ‘TABLE OUVERTE’ IN THE ROANNAIS

'Roanne Table Ouverte' – 6th Festival of gastronomy in the Roannais region, during October 2008. (Literally 'open table' – a welcome to all the public to enjoy some of the best restaurants in the region)

The gastronomic jewel of Roanne and the Roannais!

It is an opportunity and a pleasure for all the restaurants, producers, and suppliers to open their doors to the public.

To demonstrate their gastronomic talents and artistic presentation.

 

This highly successful festival harmonises the art of good food with the fun of theatre, music, and entertainment.  These festivities carry on throughout the month of October in the varied and various establishments in the Roannais.

A celebration of good food, wine, successful business partnerships, conviviality and friendship.

It brings the whole community together with one purpose, at least for one whole month!

 

 If you happen to be in the Roannais region during this October, just try one or two of the local restaurants that are supporting this event, and have fun while you enjoy excellent regional cuisine!

Visit www.roannetableouverte.com or telephone for more information on 0033 (0) 477 23 20 57

 

 

The quality of gastronomy in the Roannais region is renowned for its excellence – experience it for yourselves this October, or visit the region for your holiday, or for your next business or club event. Visit www.purefrancenow.com for more information on all aspects of Roanne, the Roannais, and the Rhône-Alpes.

‘LE BRASSERIE CLEMENCEAU’ IN THE ROANNAIS

'Le Clemenceau' is, without doubt, one of the most convivial cafe-bar-brasseries in Roanne, Roannais.

As in all of the larger French towns, and Roanne is no exception, they have their fair share of bars and bistros – favourite places to meet up with friends for morning coffee, or relax with an ice-cold beer on a sultry summer's afternoon.

 

One such place that Purefrancenow has discovered, and that we frequent more than any other is 'Le Brasserie Clemenceau.

Set in a prime position right in the heart of the Place Georges Clemenceau.

This attractive square is is one of Roanne's most impressive, flanked on one side by the church St.Etienne, and on the other, by the ancient Roanne Chateau, and an amazing 'trompe l'oeil' wall mural reflecting its rich, historical past.

There are also a couple of contemporary designed water features with dramatic fountains, which contrast with the surrounding medieval buildings.

'Le Clemenceau' is a great place for lunch, and good value, too! They do a 'plat du jour' for 6.95€ which changes daily. Within this, you can choose from a selection of desserts, and downed with a glass of chilled rosé or 'biére préssion'. They are open 7 days out of 7, too! Good business approach!!

The atmosphere is extremely friendly and relaxed, which, of course, partly explains its popularity with local business men and women, as well as shoppers, tourists, and families (particularly during the week-end).

We originally visited about 18 months ago, shortly after the owners, Francis Kuchenbuch and his long-term friend and business partner, Jean-Louis Clot, had collaborated to develop a new bar-brasserie in Roanne, after knowing each other for over 32 years (having originally met in the French military, whilst doing their national service stationed in Germany). They opened 'Le Clemenceau in February, 2007.

They work well together, and between them they have created a modern, stylish, successful formula. 

The interior is bright and welcoming with plenty of comfortable seating, with a semi-sports bar 'feel', including large screen TV, pool table to the rear.

 

 

Outside, the contemporary, dark metal tables and chairs with bright red cusions and parasols defines and advertises the brasserie's presence along the pedestrian walk-way, making it almost irresistible not to stop for a coffee, or more!

 

 

 

All of the staff area very friendly, and Francis, in particular, likes to practice his 'good' English on you whenever he gets the chance! (no matter how hard you try to practice your French!)

 

Francis's wife, Armelle, is the 'chef de cuisine', and produces some great dishes! Armelle is also fluent in English.(They spent 12 years in Florida, running bars, clubs, and restaurants together).

So, all in all, 'Le Clemenceau' is a place that has to be visited when you are in Roanne. You are guaranteed a very convivial welcome!

 

 

 

Visit 'Le Clemenceau' in our 'Restaurant' section within the 'Roannais Directory' at www.purefrancenow.com for more details on this great place! 

‘THE RED ARROWS’ IN THE ROANNAIS! by Brian Franklin

The '18th Meeting Aérien International' 14th September, 2008, in Roanne, Roannais, Rhône-Alpes.

Yet another incredible show for the Roannais region, and the historic Roanne Aerodrome. 

Yes, with those "Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines!". Well, Lucy certainly thought so!

What with all these powerful beasts of machines in the sky, ridden by young, experienced 'cavalier', pilots pressing all the right buttons!! Lucy could not help herself from being enthralled, excited.

What a day out! Despite the previous day of stormy, cold, rainy weather (which portents the seemingly swift arrival of Autumn), and the heavy, early morning clouds which seemed to suggest a complete 'wash-out' for the event, we decided to go, and risk it. 

Like somebody 'upstairs' waving a magical wand the clouds cleared, the sun shone brightly, and the whole day turned into one of those  unexpectedly special ones, to be engraved in the memory for all time.

Simply wonderful!

 

We parked up in a muddy field at Roanne aerodrome, and headed for the centre of activities – marquees, tents, stalls, fun games for the kids, and, of course, all the various planes and flying machines parked in anticipation.

And, of course, this anticipation kept growing as we excitedly waited for the Red Arrows to contribute majestically to the opening of the days events. There were, however, several aerobatic displays before the 'Big British Boys' arrived.

One, in particular, touched our hearts and emotions, and this was an incredible, heart-warming display by a glider.

High up in the windy sky, streaming smoke in it's ballet-like path to classical music, this 'planeur symphonie le Swift', was just an incredibly beautiful, professional, and silent display which brought Lucy to real tears!

In stark contrast to the powerful roaring speed of the Red Arrows which eventually arrived (on exact cue, I might add!), and made us proud to be British amongst the local French! They brought a lump to our throats.

They were simply fantastic, and the whole watching crowd were in rapturous applaud.

 

We were in awe of them, and our 7 year-old son, Ellis, thought he was living and breathing a live video game! He loved it!

The backdrop of it all was also incredible – set in part of the Vallée de Roanne with the Monts de la Madeleine lit up by the sunlight in an azure blue sky.

The hillside habitants of the Cote Roannaise were having a fun day, too, with high front-row view, watching such a marvellous event while sat with family and friends eating their Sunday lunch!

After the Red Arrows had speedily departed in a flourish of red, white and blue smoke, there was still much more to come, and, much more around to see.

 

 

 

 

It was a great event, and organised, as we have come to expect of the French, in a professional, and easy-going way.

There were lots of people, but not dramatically overcrowded. We had a ringside view of all the air displays, and, at certain moments, you felt VERY close to the planes whizzing by.

It was also great to see them moving past in front of us to their take-off positions, with the pilots and co-pilots waving across to the crowd as they went by.

It's a serious 'game', however, flying about high in the sky. Fear and Danger seemed to lurk in every aspect of the aerobatic displays. The adrenalin-rush was, in some ways, being passed from high-flyer to on-the-ground, low-watcher!

 

 

We were full of admiration for the skill, and dare-devilishness of the pilots.

One or two of them women! Not that I'm chauvinistic or anything – just that I admire their guts! And, of course, their skill and brilliance in the sky.

Relief, too, wasn't far away, when the individual performances were completed, and the planes came back safely to terra-firma.

Presentations and performances representing the second world war – the majestic British Spitfire and Japanese A6M Zero ( built by Mitsubishi and Nakajima) – all with explosives and mock gunfire!

 

 

Some of the planes were celebrities! It was announced over the tannoy system that they had also featured in various movies, such as Steven Speilberg's "Indiana Jones' movies, and 'Casablanca', and 'Apocalypse Now'.

It was a full day – we were there for over 7 hours! Lucy got a burnt face! That's what you get when you oggle at 'Real Men' who are in full control of their destinies!

The various group displays and individual performances just kept coming, and coming. It was certainly great value for money.

There was a fantastic series of displays, with superb acrobatic performances, as well as the incredible, big fighter formation flying by The Red Arrows, Patrol Jordanians, Breitling, and a brilliant finale by the French Fighter Patrol – 'Symbole du savoir-faire aeronautique' of France. 

 

 

 

 

 

It was an absolute success, once again, with over 10,000 people attending.

There is no doubt that if you ever get the chance to see this formidable local show here in the Roannais you just have to go – it's a great family fun-day out !

 

‘FESTIVAL OF MILK’ IN THE ROANNAIS by Lucy Franklin

I have to admit, that if translated into English, our local "La Fête du Lait" (Festival of Milk!) would probably not get many visitors – it doesn't sound too appealing, does it!?

But, as seems to be the norm, this extremely successful event that promotes all aspects of the manufacture and sales of milk products, was quite a revelation.

The whole affair was spread over a sunny week-end at the beginning of September. We visited on the Sunday, and were firts drawn into the main arena where the showing of various breeds of cattle was taking place.

These were beautiful animals, cleaned and groomed to perfection – obviously a highly competitive event!

There were also beef cattle, and bulls, as well as females with calves.

All the young farmers involved in the 'showing' were dressed the same with smart white shirts and black trousers.

 

They were competing for the various silver cups,medallions, and trophies that had been put on display. All very serious, but done with the normal French panache and conviviality.

The amount of effort that goes into putting on an agricultural show never ceases to amaze me.

Housing for the cattle alone was immense.

From the main arena we wandered in the direction of the 'young animal' marquee enclosure where Ellis, our 7 year-old son, and ourselves were delighted to get close and touch the baby calves, goats and sheep, along with a couple of friendly donkeys, and a litter of newly born piglets – gorgeous!

There was also  many local businesses showing their products – mainly cheese and meat oriented, but there were also purveyors of local honey, charcuterie, and even wine producers from the Côte Roannaise. A 'gastronomc' tent was the centre of cookery displays which were held throughout the 2 days. Also in this area there were artisans offering hands-on experiences for children – making butter from milk, and the art of milking an artficial cow. Ellis, of course, tried both.

Home-made ice cream was being sold, and another stall giving away glasses of milk, flavoured with you choice of syrups – strawberry (nice!), peppermint (weird!).

After all this exertion it was off to the 'Repas' marquuee for 'dejeuner'. We English think of ourselves as a nation of 'queuers', but the French seem to love it as well – and what a system  they have!

As you snake your way between the barriers the 'Plat du Jour' was efficiently handed to you – vegetable salad, pomme de terre Lyonnaise, big chunks of (yes, beef!) that was being professionally sliced from the barbeque spit, and served with the rich beef 'juice'.

There was, of course, fantastic country bread, 'petit tranche' of Montbrison cheese, and a little dish of fruit salad.

Once in the marquee we saw that the tables were set with flowers. All very civilised, and not a burger in sight!

All was washed down with a bottle of chilled rosé in typical French fashion. Very, very enjoyable!

The sun continued to shine, (it was a very hot day), and although we didn't manage to stay for the whole afternoon of events we did take a look at the fantastic diplay of farming vehicles that were parked up, clean and shining like big boys toys, in a long military line – serious stuff, again!

 

The horse and cart rides, ferrying people around the adjoining fields, began again after lunch, and from their popularity I imagine ran well into the afternoon.

It was time for us to leave, reflecting on a very exciting day out, and all for free (except lunch, of course!).

Another one to put on the calendar for next year!! 

MARVELLOUS MEDIEVAL CHARLIEU IN THE ROANNAIS by Lucy Franklin

One of the best things about spending time in France is searching out all the little markets that are the hub of the local communities. We have a great choice of locally grown produce and speciality goods from the whole Roannais region.

On a Wednesday and Saturday morning one of the liveliest markets is in held in the centre of the medieval town of Charlieu.

About 15 to 20 minutes drive from our local hill villlage of Perreux, near Roanne in the Roannais, Charlieu boasts an ancient Benedictine Abbey that date back to 875AD with additions during the 10th and 11th centuries, including Gothic cloisters and chapel built during the 15th century.

You wander the streets with the old timber houses hanging over the shops below in typical 16th century fashion, and the shops, of course, sell everything from patisserie to books, and flowers to charcuterie.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The market is held in the main square, flanked on all sides by cafes, shops, and the beautiful 15th century church, dedicated to Saint Philbert.

Arrive early to make the most of the morning. You will find regional produce, fruit, vegetables, fabulous cheeses, and locally-reared, and prepared meats, and poultry.

If you care to rummage around you will find stalls selling, fabric, clothes, and jewellery, and several stalls selling bread that comes in all shapes, sizes, and varieties of flavour, from simple baguettes to vast chunks of rough country loaf that, from what I can gather, you can purchase either by weight or just large, chunky pieces.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When your basket is full you can sit and contemplate with the locals at one of the cafes, and if you shopped earlier enough then just down the Rue Jean Morel is one of the famous 'Pralus' patisserie and confectionery shops where you can purchase the best croissants to devour with your petit-café.

Also well worth a visit, if you can spare the time, is the Hospital Museum, with its ward and apothecary from a bygone age, and the silk museum that tells the history of Charlieu, and its part in the local weaving and silk industry, from the middle ages onwards.

Charlieu is a great place to visit for a 'taste' of the Roannais region. It has something of interest around each corner for everybody! Visit our 'Pure Escape Days' section on the www.purefrancenow website.

‘FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS’ IN THE ROANNAIS

The September issue of 'French Property News' is in the shops. And the story of 'Le Cuvage' ( a large-scale renovation project in the Roannais, Rhone-Alpes by Brian and Lucy Franklin) begins.

This first 'Diary' editorial in French Property News "Seduced by a Photo…" covers the initial 'viewing trip', and Brian and Lucy's discovery and renovation of 'The Stables' at the Chateau des Cresses prior to their bigger project of 'Le Cuvage' (an original wine-making barn).

"Brian and Lucy put down a deposit on a renovation project on the strength of a few photos – but would it live up to the dream?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The place looked horrendous – but through the veil of rain and the shivering damp, there was hope amongst the trepidation" 

"The Stables were originally part of the servicing complex for the Chateau and the 18th- Century Pavillon de Chasse (hunting Lodge)… as we entered the courtyard at the rear of the chateau, a large muddy hole faced us. This is where the swimming pool was going to be!"

NEW LIFE AHEAD!

"We didn't know it then, but we had stumbled into a new world, one which would have a far-reaching and deep effect on us for the rest of our lives. These were our first stumblings into France"

 

 

"The Stables came before 'Le Cuvage', a wine-making barn which served the Chateau des Cresses, and probably the local area around the village of Perreux. Le Cuvage was to be our second home renovation, and a much more involved, bigger, and costlier project, but still within the original woodland grounds of the chateau.

 

 

 

In the October issue of French Property News – Brian and Lucy's Story continues with the results of the renovated stables, and the birth of a 'Grand Design' idea which led to Le Cuvage.