Colorful outdoor cafe scene in a quaint French village, featuring a green canopy, vibrant chairs and tables, and lush plants. The background includes stone buildings with blue shutters and signs, evoking a charming and relaxed rural atmosphere. Overlaid text reads: 'Life in Rural France & Beyond - Exploring French Life, One Village at a Time.

Bonjour! I’m Kylie…

I live in the beautiful Poitou-Charente region of South West France having made the move back in 2016. Think of me as your local Francophile living the French dream in rural France with my hubby Richard and border collie Lottie.

I started this site to help you discover this wonderful part of France. I’ll show you the best places to stay, tours to enjoy, and restaurants to eat at. I cover everything about life in France, from visiting wineries & chateaux to shopping at the daily markets and boulangeries.

So whether you’re planning the vacation of a lifetime or looking to move to France, I’m here to make things easy.

Learn more about my French Life!

What you’ll find here

A red boat on the river Garonne with the cite du vin in the background

French City & Town Guides

Learn More
the main square in Bordeaux with a tram some people and the hotel de ville

Travel Planning in France

Learn More
The ramparts of the city of Carcassonne in France

French History & Culture

Learn More

Moving to France

Learn More

The French Alps in Winter

A bridge connection a rock to a building in the French alps with snowy mountains behind and bright blue sky in the distance

10 Ski Resorts in the Alps France for Your Bucket List

READ MORE >>>
Snowy mountains against a blue cloudy sky with a signpost

The Best Time To Go Skiing in France in 2025

READ MORE >>>
A picturesque winter scene of the village Le Houches in the Chamonix valley, featuring a collection of traditional wooden chalets blanketed in snow. The chalets, with their sloping roofs and balconies, nestle amidst snow-covered trees, reflecting the serene and tranquil atmosphere of a snowy mountain retreat.

Insider Tips on Which Ski Resort to Choose in Chamonix, France

READ MORE >>>
A fine dining setting outdoors with a table set with crystal clear wine glasses, crisp white linen, and a stunning view of snow-capped mountains under a bright blue sky, offering an elegant dining experience in the midst of the alpine scenery.

Luxury, Glamor, and Celebrity Spotting At This French Ski Resort

READ MORE >>>
Passengers in a bright red horse-drawn sleigh enjoy a winter outing, with a sturdy brown horse in harness against a backdrop of snow-covered hills and evergreen trees. The clear sky above and the crisp snow beneath highlight a serene winter landscape, suggesting a leisurely tour through a scenic, hilly terrain.

10 Ski Resorts in the French Alps for Epic Adventures On & Off the Slopes

READ MORE >>>
A serene winter landscape showcasing a tranquil lake reflecting the surrounding snowy peaks and bare trees under a clear blue sky, in a valley suggestive of the Chamonix region, renowned for its alpine beauty and winter sports appeal.

This Ski Resort in France Is the Ultimate Winter Sports Destination

READ MORE >>>

The Podcast For People Who Love France! 🇫🇷

From the depths of rural France join me, Kylie, as I guide you through the trials and tribulations of French country life.

Hear the stories from other expats, how they’ve started new lives, set up businesses, renovated properties or retired in this wonderful region of France.

A podcast cover with a map of France, icons, and "The Life in Rural France Podcast" text.

And discover hidden gems to visit, the stories of France and its fascinating history and the culture of the French that has so many people fascinated.

Filling your life with a little dose of French sunshine one episode at a time.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Latest on the blog

Are You A True Francophile With a Passion for France? Take the Quiz To Find Out!

Does your heart skip a beat for baguettes, Bordeaux, and beautiful French villages? Do you love to spend time in Parisian cafés or look for hidden gems in Provence.

Find out just how deep your love for France really goes. This quiz will reveal whether you’re a die-hard Francophile or just dipping your toes in French water.

TAKE THE QUIZ >>>