Lyons-la-Forêt ©

Lyons-la-Forêt © Gillian Thornton Lyons-la-Forêt, Eure Deep in the heart of a huge beech forest, 40km east of Rouen, Lyons-la-Forêt is an enchanting mix of red brick buildings and half-timbered houses, typical of the 17 th and 18 th century Norman style. At its heart inPlace Benserade, an 18 th century covered market on wooden pillars still hosts a variety of stalls each week. Henry I of England died at the castle that once stood here on an old feudal mound, and composer Maurice Ravel frequently stayed here, writing some of his most beautiful music at a house called La Fresne. Today there are tearooms, restaurants, and antique shops to help visitors while away a few hours. Or maybe stroll down beside the Lieure river to visit the church of Saint-Denis. Pérouges © Marilou Perino, Pérouges-Bugey Tourism Bruniquel, Tarn-et-Garonne High above the confluence of the Vère and Aveyron rivers, some 30 km east of Montauban, Bruniquel boasts not one fortress but two, conveniently known as the Old and Young castles. Founded by Queen Brunehaut, daughter of the Visigoth king, Bruniquel clings to the hillside in tiers. Expect steep cobbled streets, limestone houses adorned with climbing roses and lilacs, and period properties with mullioned windows dating back to the 15 th century. Visit the partially restored rooms of the Young Castle and take in the panorama across the Aveyron Gorges from the open Renaissance-style gallery of the Old Castle, built on the ramparts. Ancient stronghold of the Counts of Toulouse and an important medieval trading centre, Bruniquel still prides itself on its artisan boutiques. QUALITY FRENCH MANUFACTURED FIBREGLASS SWIMMING POOLS OPERATING THROUGHOUT FRANCE 5 STAR REVIEWS 1 WEEK INSTALLATION OVER 40 POOL MODELS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE (+33) 6 42 50 04 31 www.poolsdirect.online contact@poolsdirect.online www.facebook.com/poolsdirect S I R E T : 9 0 4 9 5 3 9 5 7 0 0 0 1 9 34 | The Good Life France Bruniquel © Gillian Thornton The Good Life France | 35