NOVEMBER FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS IN THE ROANNAIS

'Grand Designs' is the title of Brian Franklin's 3rd article about the discovery of the Roannais, and his family's second successful renovation project in this beautiful part of the Rhône-Alpes region in France.

At the end of 2002 the Franklin's were offered an opportunity to buy a very large barn, less than a minute's walk from their first French property.

It was owned by Madame Arlette Siedel, the last French owner of Château des Cresses, near Roanne, in the Roannais region. This included all of the château's wonderful woodland and farmland, which extended as far as the eye could see. Acres and Acres of it!

This 'pressoir' (wine-making barn), or 'cuvage', was very large and superbly situated with potentially dramatic panoramic views across open farmland and the southern Beaujolais hillside.

With the success of their previous renovation and conversion of 'The Stables' in part of the château courtyard, and their excellent relationship with close French friends, they felt confident that they could create something very special with 'Le Cuvage'.

Follow the Franklin's progress with their 'Grand Design' project in French Property News this month(November 2008), and in the following December and January issues.

It's a good read! Particularly for those interested in a home, or life in France!

Go to their dedicated website: www.purefrancenow.com  for more information about the Roannais, and all the opportunities, help, and services available from Brian and Lucy Franklin, and their Purefrancenow team.