This part of France is also referred to as the French ?Lake District? as it includes a number of large leisure lakes. Whilst rarely crowded with people, they are used by locals and tourists for swimming, sailing, fishing or just sun bathing on their shores. The lakes are fed by a network of rivers which not only enhance the natural beauty of the region but also, in their turn, support fishing and canoeing activities. The area caters for most tastes and its topography varies from rolling forested hills and mountains in the east through to gentle river valleys and undulating countryside in the west.

Limousin is one of the most sparsely populated areas in France. Working the land is by far the largest industry in the area. Limousin is particularly famous for its beef and the prevailing sight in the countryside are the rich, red/brown herds of Limousin cattle peacefully grazing the lush, green pastures of the region. The other main source of employment is the tourist industry. Despite the wonderful climate and beautiful countryside, this is still in its infancy but is growing steadily as more and more people discover the tranquil delights of Limousin. The area is also renowned for its Limoges porcelain and if you're a collector, there are some real bargains to be had from several outlet stores across the region.

Wherever you are in Limousin, you are never too far away from a picture perfect, traditional French town or village that epitomises the French way of life. This is an area where the locals still sit outside quaint bars sipping pastis and putting the world to rights; where all you can hear on a still summers evening is the clunk of the petanque balls and where, as you drive along the local lanes, you wonder where all the other traffic is.

The climate here reflects the countryside and the people. It is gentle and temperate. It can get cold in the short winters but they are generally characterised by sharp, frosty mornings and sunny days. Summers are long and warm, even hot, but they are not spoiled by the energy sapping humidity that can be present the further south you venture.

Limousin caters for many tastes. The more energetic will enjoy cycling on our traffic free roads, horse riding and walking. Those of you into water sports are spoiled by the plethora of rivers and lakes in the region that are used for swimming, sailing, canoeing and fishing. For the more genteel amongst you, the local scenery and picturesque towns and villages provide inspiration for both the artist and photographer and if all you want to do is sit outside a local bar or restaurant soaking up the sun and sipping a glass of wine, we can cater for that too.

There are a variety of types and styles of property in the area from the traditional to the modern, from the secluded to the house in the heart of a village or town. Whilst these are as variable as the landscape, they share one characteristic ? their value for money. Limousin has largely remained undiscovered by foreign house buyers and property prices have remained comparatively inexpensive compared to the rest of France.

Limousin is quick and easy to reach from the UK. The new airport terminal at Limoges is well served by daily flights from Stansted as well as flights from Liverpool, Southampton, East Midlands and this year, Newcastle and Manchester. It is a busy, thriving airport which serves a growing interest in this part of France amongst the British. If flying isn't your bag, both Limoges and Poitiers (in the north) are stopping points on the main north/south TGV train line and only three hours or so from Paris. If you're planning on driving to the area, then the north/south A20 runs through the heart of the region but is far removed from the UK motorways (or should that be car parks) that we're used to.

Limousin offers a return to a more peaceful, traditional way of life. Its beautiful and varied countryside along with its mild climate, all within an hour and a half flight time from the UK make it a perfect holiday or more permanent base. With property prices the most competitive in France you should really come and see what's on offer.