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A text logo with the words Life in Rural France in green and some cartoon sunflowers as part of it
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

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

Travel Planning in France

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The ramparts of the city of Carcassonne in France

French History & Culture

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Moving to France

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Winter in France

The Orangery at the Palace of Versailles covered in snow under a blue sky.

The Beauty of Versailles in Winter and Why It’s the Best Time to Visit (More Sparkle, Fewer Euros)

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Chateau de Chenonceau grand hall set for Christmas

7 Stunning Châteaux in France to Visit During Winter (The Magic of Christmas in a Castle)

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Colmar Christmas Market

15 Magical Christmas Markets in France That Are Straight Out of a Fairytale (Full Guide for 2025)

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A white Christmas tree in Paris with the Eiffel tower in the background

21 French Christmas Traditions and How They Celebrate the Festive Period in France

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The French Ski Slopes in Winter covered in snow with people skiing

Where to Find Empty Ski Slopes in the French Alps (Secret Spots Nobody Tells You About)

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A christmas tree and a roaring fire with a pile of books and a coffee on top.

7 Books Set in France at Christmas Time You Won’t Want to Put Down (the Perfect Stocking Fillers)

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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

  • The Bastille Day military parade marches down the Champs-Élysées in Paris, lined with French flags and watched by crowds, with the Arc de Triomphe and modern skyline in the background. This patriotic display honors French national unity and military tradition.
    Why Do the French Celebrate Bastille Day? The History & Story Behind the National Day of FranceJuly 13, 2026
  • Three adults laugh over coffee and a croissant at an outdoor café on a sunlit stone street. The relaxed social scene illustrates everyday café culture in a discussion about myths about France.
    The Myths About France I Believed Until I Actually Lived HereJuly 10, 2026
  • The Eiffel Tower illuminated with red, white, and blue lights, surrounded by vibrant red fireworks during a night celebration in Paris.
    5 Trending Spots to Watch the Fireworks in Paris on Bastille Day, 14th of July 2026July 9, 2026
  • Louvre palace buildings glow in warm evening light behind the Tuileries Garden in Paris. Green chairs surround a reflecting pool with statues and trimmed trees in the foreground.
    Which Paris Arrondissement Should You Stay In for Your First Visit? There Is Something for All TastesJuly 6, 2026
  • Sunlit Paris street slopes between cream stone buildings with wrought iron balconies toward the Métropole entrance and red café awnings. The lively neighborhood scene reflects the architecture cafés and street views found along famous streets in Paris.
    The 10 Most Famous Streets in Paris to Visit This SummerJuly 3, 2026
  • Château de Chenonceau spans the calm Cher River at sunset with its pale stone arches and ornate towers reflected in the water. The historic landmark is one of the best known Loire Valley Châteaux.
    Which Loire Valley Châteaux Are Actually Worth Visiting If You Only Have a Few DaysJuly 2, 2026
  • Rocamadour rises dramatically across a sunlit limestone cliff with churches and historic buildings stacked above the village. Warm evening light highlights the sanctuary and rocky landscape.
    Why Rocamadour, the Cliff-Hanging Village in the Dordogne, is a Must-Visit for History LoversJuly 1, 2026
  • Brightly painted fishing boats fill a sunny marina in front of colorful waterfront buildings. The vivid pink orange blue and white boats reflect in the calm harbor water.
    The 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in France To See This Summer and What Makes Each One So SpecialJune 30, 2026
  • A three tier serving stand displays canelés madeleines macarons and iced calissons in a rustic French kitchen. Floral dessert plates are stacked beside the assortment for an elegant afternoon tea.
    The 8 Most Famous French Desserts and the Towns That Shot Them To Fame (Have You Tasted Any Of These)June 29, 2026
  • Market stalls selling fresh produce and jars of preserves stand beneath red and white canopies in a shaded tree lined square. Shoppers browse beside an elegant historic building on a bright summer day.
    The Best Markets to Visit in France, What to Buy, and How Not to Look Like a TouristJune 26, 2026
  • A trolley full of French cheese in a restaurant in France
    The 10 Most Famous Cheeses in France: Will Your Favorite French Cheese Make the List?June 25, 2026
  • Close view of the Panthéon Foucault pendulum surrounded by a numbered circular scale. Large sculptural monuments and the National Convention memorial rise between towering columns in the background.
    The Story of the Panthéon in Paris, A Tale of Kings, Revolution, and the Great Souls Who Rest In Its CryptJune 25, 2026

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 >>>
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Life in Rural France
  • About
    • About Kylie
  • City Guides
  • Quizzes
    • The Paris Quiz
    • The Francophile Quiz
    • French Travel Quiz
  • Resources
    • Paris Itinerary
    • Fun Facts
    • Travel Planning
    • Food and Drink
    • Moving to France
    • Helpful Resources
    • Contact