I really didn't know what to think or expect when I landed and touched down at Limoges airport back in July, I did a brief bit of research on the region I would be working and living in but due to the needy demand of my presence, I was flown out to France from England within a few days, so as you can imagine I had a lot to prepare for as well as trying to find some time to catch up with the family beforehand.
All was well and good, I was pleasantly surprised by the feel of the place along with the beautiful surroundings of symmetrical row after row of the extensive vineyards that provide the grapes that are used in the production of Cognac (a little too strong for my taste buds) and the famous apéritif wine Pineau which is of similar taste to sherry. It was also interesting to see the farmers working hard on their tractors day and night ensuring the health of the vines was kept up to standards by trimming away at any unwanted overgrowth or spraying their deadly spray of pesticide into the air, which made us run for cover.
Over the weeks we were delighted by the presence of the stunning, bright coloured, fresh looking sunflowers which came out in full bloom over August, standing tall with pride which was absolutely beautiful to witness first hand. A bit different from seeing a bunch of flowers wrapped in plastic for sale in your local supermarket, aye??!! BUT unfortunately due to the massive storm we experienced they were all wiped out and gradually rotted away turning black which was such a sad moment. I couldn't bring myself to take any photographs of this tragic event so I preserved there natural beauty.
The nearest town to where we were situated in Birac was Chateauneuf sur Charente, which was about 40 minutes away by foot but walking 40 minutes by foot in 30 degree heat was a bit of a killer mission. Not only was it very good exercise, it also came with extreme sweating spells... Niiice. Don't expect to see any public transport out this way unless your a keen hitchhiker of course but we had the option of walking the 40 minute mission to our nearest town or hopping on the trusty push bikes which only took 15 minutes in all, although the hills on the way back were a bit of a put off so walking was more appropriate.
Our 'neigh'bours...
The town of Chateauneuf had everything to fill our needs like two local supermarkets (Super U and Intermarche), a much needed tasty and delicious pizza takeaway (Pizza Chez Bozzo), the all important train station (la gare), a sandy beach with a bar selling light snacks, hot, cold and alcoholic beverages accompanied by some evening entertainment, and leaving the best for last. Our most visited, welcoming and more than generous, Michelin star rated restaurant of all restaurants (Le Palais), owned by Pascal. I don't have enough fingers or toes to count the numerous of times we visited this delight of a restaurant, we were never left disappointed, always made to feel welcome and everything from service to flavour was more than what we expected every time. More than happy customers.
Chateauneuf Town Hall
