If you have a passion for nature, wildlife and the great outdoors, you’ll be delighted to know that wherever your removals to France takes you, you’ll never be too far away from a nature reserve – and some of them are really quite spectacular.
Whether you’re moving to Paris, Marseille or Lyon or to a smaller village tucked away in the idyllic French countryside, there are some excellent reserves to visit. These will give you the chance to escape the hustle and bustle, get close to nature and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
Here we take a look at some of the best nature reserves France has to offer.
Moving House to France – Click here for more information on our professional removal services and how we can help you with your European move.
Best Nature Reserves in France
Delta de la Dranse National Nature Reserve
Located in south eastern France, close to Thonon-les-Bains in the Haute-Savoie region, this small nature reserve, covering just 130 acres, is as notable for its geology as it is for its flora and fauna. Time and tide have left their mark here, the retreating glaciers giving rise to terraces of alluvium, sand, stones and pebbles. The European beaver has made its home on the banks of Lake Geneva and the area is visited by more than 200 different species of bird; chief among them being the Red-crested Pochard, the Little Ringed Plover, the Common Tern and the Common Gull.
Le Marais de Lavours
After nearly a year of closure, a brand new pathway on stilts will open to the public in March 2014. Visitors will be able to enjoy a trip to the marshlands of Lavours, in Ain, eastern France, to view rare butterflies and birds such as the curlew, marsh harrier, common snipe, bluethroat and savi's warbler among others. Wild boar are in abundance here, as are deer, beavers, foxes and polecats. The marsh has more than its fair share of flora too with a healthy mix of flowering plants and grasses providing shelter and breeding grounds for a wealth of insects.
The Passy National Nature Reserve
Another nature reserve in the Haute-Savoie region of eastern France, this one is approximately 4,240 acres. Its valley position, on the lower faces of the Aiguilles Rouges and Mont Blanc mountain ranges, has contributed to the diversity of its make up. This is the land of the eagle and the Alpine ibex as well as the marmot, grouse and ptarmigan. Hiking and mountain biking are actively encouraged, and hour long guided tours are available where you can view all the reserve has to offer. There is also a nature trail for children, which runs along the forest floor.
Paulilles Recreational Park
Located in the Languedoc-Roussilon region, between the towns of Port-Vendres, and Banyuls-sur-Mer, this former Nobel dynamite factory has now been renovated and features a museum explaining the history of the site. Set within landscaped gardens with picnic spots providing wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains, many of the buildings are still intact and have been preserved, whilst its surroundings have been left to return to nature under the watchful eye of Natura 2000. There are numerous trails to follow, both on foot and by mountain bike, and these are marked out in French with easy-to-follow pictorial representations.
Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve
Located near Talloires, on the eastern bank of Lake Annecy, The Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve is small but beautifully formed. Covering just 170 acres on a mountain that reaches no higher than 2,136 ft, it has been a protected nature reserve since 1977 and for good reason. It is geologically important, resulting from glacial movement dating back millions of years, and it is also important ecologically as it is home to a large wildlife population. Birdlife, in particular, is thriving here with Eurasian crag martins, peregrine falcons, black kites and yellow-legged gulls nesting in its cliffs.
Sabot de Frotey National Nature Reserve
Located in the Franche-Comté region of eastern France. The Sabot de Frotey, "sabot" meaning shoe in French, features a large horseshoe shaped rock overlooking the city of Vesoul. This 9 kilometre walk includes a 120 metre incline, making it unsuitable for push or wheel chairs. Along the way, you’ll see up to 20 different kinds of orchid and may well catch sight or sound of woodlarks, black woodpeckers and nightjars. The reserve has free access trails but it is shared with dozens of private plots so walkers and hikers are politely requested to observe any barriers, gates or fences.
About Hamiltons Removals
We offer a full range of removal services to suit your individual requirements. Whether you are moving to France from the UK, from Europe or overseas, our friendly team will ensure your move proceeds smoothly from start to finish.
UK, European and Overseas Removals to France Click here for full information on our services or please contact us to discuss your move.
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Saturday, 19 October 2013
A Modern History of French Food
With your removals to France in their planning stages, there’ll be plenty to look forward to, not least the wonderful array of fine French foods. From le petit déjeuner through to dining “a la carte”, the French make an event of every meal. This article takes a look at the modern history of French food and why it has become so famous the world over.
Removals to France – click here for full information on our France removals service.
In The Beginning
When tracing any history, the question is, how far back do you go? Well, believe it or not, there was a time when French cooking was not so great. It was generally quite bland and un-imaginative and unlike today, was not split into courses, so your pork, beef, poultry and fish dishes, all arrived at the same time. Seasoning and cooking techniques were not as varied as they are now and no real attention was paid to the variations on the palate.
The Italian Influence
When Catherine de Medicis of Italy married Henry Duke of Orleans, who was to become King Henry II of France, she bought with her some excellent Italian chefs. These culinary experts were well used to using such ingredients as truffles, garlic and mushrooms. They took the French court by storm with their cooking techniques, which were often imitated in high social circles. The 17th and 18th centuries saw the birth of Haute Cuisine and thanks largely to chef Francois Pierre de la Varenne, more and more French chefs began experimenting with different ingredients and flavours. However, their access to and ability to sell their dishes was restricted by the professional guilds which were very influential at the time.
The French Revolution
This turbulent time in French history brought about some significant changes to Le Menu. No longer were the guilds able to dictate who cooked what and where. Now chefs were free to experiment properly and create the dishes they desired.
The Michelin Brothers
Who would have thought that two brothers who manufactured tyres would have such an impact of French cooking? In 1900 the Michelin Brothers; Andre and Edouard launched The Michelin Guide, a handbook for motorists which also featured restaurants. The publication soon became the manual of choice for all those looking for places to enjoy a decent lunch or a lovely evening meal. The 1920’s saw the introduction of the guide’s now world famous star rating system and so, the Michelin Guide was born. Ever since then, the aim of chefs the world over is to be featured in the guide and to be awarded a Michelin Star.
These days, the Michelin restaurant guide is devoted, almost entirely, to restaurant reviews, but with more than a nod to its motoring heritage, the star rating is worded as follows:
One star - A very good restaurant in its category.
Two stars - Excellent cooking, worth a detour.
Three stars - Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.
The Michelin standard is set very high, so the achievement of even a single star is not easy. And it doesn’t end there; those that have been awarded stars are kept on their toes with regular, unannounced inspections and an inspection can as easily result in the withdrawal of a star, as it can the reward of one.
Famous French Chefs
Paul Bocuse – A visit to Auberge du Pont de Collonges in Lyon will not disappoint. The man himself will often pose for photographs and his food speaks for itself. You’ll need to book well in advance but the experience is well worth the wait.
Marc Haeberlin – The Auberge de l’Ill on Rue de Collonges au Mont d'Or has lost none of its Michelin appeal since Marc took over from his father. He constantly seeks out ways to modify the menu and enhance it whilst remaining true to the Alsatian regional specialities of truffle and lobster.
Pascal Barbot - L’Astrance on Rue Beethoven in Paris is where you’ll find M. Barbot. He brings a modern culinary approach to the table, which is reflected, in his décor and presentation. It’s a small restaurant with just 25 tables - so make sure you book early.
Guy Savoy - Head chef and owner of the restaurant by the same name on the Champs Elysees in Paris, M. Savoy never ceases to impress. Whether you choose to go for lunch or the full gourmet dining experience, you will be virtually guaranteed of excellence in service, surroundings and cuisine.
Michel Trama – Trama is a Michelin starred restaurant within Les Loges de Aubergarde, Lot-et-Garonne in south-western France. M. Trama presents an excellent menu amid beautiful surroundings and if you’re there for lunch you can enjoy it “al fresco” on a lovely terrace.
Many famous French chefs are, of course, at work in other parts of the world. This is just a selection of those you may meet, should you decide to go out for a gourmet French meal.
About Hamiltons
At Hamiltons Removals we provide a full range of European removal services, to domestic and commercial clients. Our flexible approach to removals means we can easily adapt to any changes in the size or circumstance of your removal. We have all the skilled manpower and packaging materials you could wish for, and plenty of secure storage should that be necessary. Call our removals team today and let us take care of your removals to France.
Domestic and Commercial Removals to France – Click here to find out about our removals to France service or contact us to discuss your move.
Removals to France – click here for full information on our France removals service.
In The Beginning
When tracing any history, the question is, how far back do you go? Well, believe it or not, there was a time when French cooking was not so great. It was generally quite bland and un-imaginative and unlike today, was not split into courses, so your pork, beef, poultry and fish dishes, all arrived at the same time. Seasoning and cooking techniques were not as varied as they are now and no real attention was paid to the variations on the palate.
The Italian Influence
When Catherine de Medicis of Italy married Henry Duke of Orleans, who was to become King Henry II of France, she bought with her some excellent Italian chefs. These culinary experts were well used to using such ingredients as truffles, garlic and mushrooms. They took the French court by storm with their cooking techniques, which were often imitated in high social circles. The 17th and 18th centuries saw the birth of Haute Cuisine and thanks largely to chef Francois Pierre de la Varenne, more and more French chefs began experimenting with different ingredients and flavours. However, their access to and ability to sell their dishes was restricted by the professional guilds which were very influential at the time.
The French Revolution
This turbulent time in French history brought about some significant changes to Le Menu. No longer were the guilds able to dictate who cooked what and where. Now chefs were free to experiment properly and create the dishes they desired.
The Michelin Brothers
Who would have thought that two brothers who manufactured tyres would have such an impact of French cooking? In 1900 the Michelin Brothers; Andre and Edouard launched The Michelin Guide, a handbook for motorists which also featured restaurants. The publication soon became the manual of choice for all those looking for places to enjoy a decent lunch or a lovely evening meal. The 1920’s saw the introduction of the guide’s now world famous star rating system and so, the Michelin Guide was born. Ever since then, the aim of chefs the world over is to be featured in the guide and to be awarded a Michelin Star.
These days, the Michelin restaurant guide is devoted, almost entirely, to restaurant reviews, but with more than a nod to its motoring heritage, the star rating is worded as follows:
One star - A very good restaurant in its category.
Two stars - Excellent cooking, worth a detour.
Three stars - Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.
The Michelin standard is set very high, so the achievement of even a single star is not easy. And it doesn’t end there; those that have been awarded stars are kept on their toes with regular, unannounced inspections and an inspection can as easily result in the withdrawal of a star, as it can the reward of one.
Famous French Chefs
Paul Bocuse – A visit to Auberge du Pont de Collonges in Lyon will not disappoint. The man himself will often pose for photographs and his food speaks for itself. You’ll need to book well in advance but the experience is well worth the wait.
Marc Haeberlin – The Auberge de l’Ill on Rue de Collonges au Mont d'Or has lost none of its Michelin appeal since Marc took over from his father. He constantly seeks out ways to modify the menu and enhance it whilst remaining true to the Alsatian regional specialities of truffle and lobster.
Pascal Barbot - L’Astrance on Rue Beethoven in Paris is where you’ll find M. Barbot. He brings a modern culinary approach to the table, which is reflected, in his décor and presentation. It’s a small restaurant with just 25 tables - so make sure you book early.
Guy Savoy - Head chef and owner of the restaurant by the same name on the Champs Elysees in Paris, M. Savoy never ceases to impress. Whether you choose to go for lunch or the full gourmet dining experience, you will be virtually guaranteed of excellence in service, surroundings and cuisine.
Michel Trama – Trama is a Michelin starred restaurant within Les Loges de Aubergarde, Lot-et-Garonne in south-western France. M. Trama presents an excellent menu amid beautiful surroundings and if you’re there for lunch you can enjoy it “al fresco” on a lovely terrace.
Many famous French chefs are, of course, at work in other parts of the world. This is just a selection of those you may meet, should you decide to go out for a gourmet French meal.
About Hamiltons
At Hamiltons Removals we provide a full range of European removal services, to domestic and commercial clients. Our flexible approach to removals means we can easily adapt to any changes in the size or circumstance of your removal. We have all the skilled manpower and packaging materials you could wish for, and plenty of secure storage should that be necessary. Call our removals team today and let us take care of your removals to France.
Domestic and Commercial Removals to France – Click here to find out about our removals to France service or contact us to discuss your move.
Thursday, 17 October 2013
Zoos and Safari Parks in France
If you are moving to France and you, or your children are animal lovers you'll be delighted to know that the country has more than 20 zoos and animal parks to visit. Once your removals to France are complete, why not take the family to one of these top attractions for an enjoyable day out?
Zoos, safaris and animal parks are dotted all over the country so wherever your move to France takes you - whether you are moving to Brittany in the north, La Rochelle in the west, Dijon in the east or St Tropez in the south - you are bound to be within a reasonably short drive of one of them.
Before we put the spotlight on some of the best French zoos and safari parks, here's just a little about us.
Hamiltons Removals have been offering a first class removals to France service, and removals to other worldwide destinations, to or from the UK, for over 20 years. We are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) as well as the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and that we operate our business in line with British Standards BS EN ISO 9001:2000. .
Quality Removals to France – click here to find out how we can provide you with a competitively priced European removals service.
Some of the Best Zoos and Safari Parks in France
Amnéville Zoo
1 Rue du Tigre
57360
Amnéville
If you're moving to Metz in northeastern France be sure to check out the zoo in nearby Amnéville. This 42 acre site is given over to 2000 or so animals, chief among which are the white lions of Timbavati. Timbavati is a reserve in South Africa which lies adjacent to the world famous Kruger National Park and in conjunction with zoos across the globe they are doing their bit to protect and re-introduce this magnificent, but sadly endangered, animal.
Cerva Safari Park
14100
Hermival-les-Vaux
If you are moving to Normandy, why not visit the Cerva Safari Park? You can actually stay in purpose built lodges and watch as animals more used to roaming the plains of Africa pass by just metres from your front porch. On this 120 acre site, located just 3 hours drive from Calais, you can see lions, tigers, giraffes, monkeys and zebras living life just as they would do in Africa.
Jardin Zoologique d'Acclimatation
Bois de Boulogne
75116 Paris
If you are moving to France with children in tow, this is the ideal place to visit. Here they can ride around the park on a little train, visit the enchanted river, ride on the backs of ponies and camels, watch theatrical productions, and play games to their hearts content. They can go on nature trails and attend workshops combining play with an active learning experience and there are some great restaurants here too.
Parc Zoologique et Botanique
51 Rue du Jardin Zoologique
68100 Mulhouse
Here at Mulhouse Zoo you'll see a wonderful collection of rare animals. Charmingly, the stars of the show have all been named: you can get to meet Sidoine, the blue-eyed lemur, Sannon the sea lion, Jurij, the polar bear, and Baïkal, the Siberian tiger. The botanical gardens are not to be missed either; look out for the purple Acer Palm and enjoy a walk through the peony, iris and dahlia gardens. It’s an oasis of calm.
Planete Sauvage
La Chevalerie
44710 Port St Pere
With safari trails covering five continents, a dolphin city, a bush village, jungle bridge, 4x4 adventures, a bivouac, shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone at Planete Sauvage. Among the many animals here are the giraffe, elephant, hippo, bison, cheetah, lion, tiger, wolf and zebra. If you sign up for their VIP Safari you'll be able to see it all from the park's Landrover, get a behind the scenes look at what goes on, and meet a trainer.
Réserve Africaine
19 Chemin Hameau du lac
11130 Sigean
Roughly equidistant Carcassonne and Perpignan is the Réserve Africaine which plays host to more than 3800 animals. Research, conservation, education and recreation are at the heart of this place as it aims to increase our knowledge of wild animals, breed threatened species and help people to understand their interdependence and their relationship with their environment, all in a natural setting.
Zoo Parc de Beauval
41110 Saint-Aignan
The Zoo Parc de Beauval has more than 4600 animals including koalas, okapi, manatees, tree kangaroos, tigers, white lions and more than 20 different kinds of monkey. Within the last few years they have successfully introduce giant pandas to the fold, an addition which caused pandemonium among the zoo's visitors and the world's press as they jostled for photographs. Thankfully, the excitement has subsided a little and the pandas are now able to relax properly in their new found surroundings.
About Hamiltons
We provide high quality removals to France for all types of domestic and commercial move. Whether you require packing, cleaning and storage or just the transportation of your belongings, we can help.
Hamiltons Removals – Removals to France – click here for full information on our moving to France service.
Zoos, safaris and animal parks are dotted all over the country so wherever your move to France takes you - whether you are moving to Brittany in the north, La Rochelle in the west, Dijon in the east or St Tropez in the south - you are bound to be within a reasonably short drive of one of them.
Before we put the spotlight on some of the best French zoos and safari parks, here's just a little about us.
Hamiltons Removals have been offering a first class removals to France service, and removals to other worldwide destinations, to or from the UK, for over 20 years. We are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) as well as the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and that we operate our business in line with British Standards BS EN ISO 9001:2000. .
Quality Removals to France – click here to find out how we can provide you with a competitively priced European removals service.
Some of the Best Zoos and Safari Parks in France
Amnéville Zoo
1 Rue du Tigre
57360
Amnéville
If you're moving to Metz in northeastern France be sure to check out the zoo in nearby Amnéville. This 42 acre site is given over to 2000 or so animals, chief among which are the white lions of Timbavati. Timbavati is a reserve in South Africa which lies adjacent to the world famous Kruger National Park and in conjunction with zoos across the globe they are doing their bit to protect and re-introduce this magnificent, but sadly endangered, animal.
Cerva Safari Park
14100
Hermival-les-Vaux
If you are moving to Normandy, why not visit the Cerva Safari Park? You can actually stay in purpose built lodges and watch as animals more used to roaming the plains of Africa pass by just metres from your front porch. On this 120 acre site, located just 3 hours drive from Calais, you can see lions, tigers, giraffes, monkeys and zebras living life just as they would do in Africa.
Jardin Zoologique d'Acclimatation
Bois de Boulogne
75116 Paris
If you are moving to France with children in tow, this is the ideal place to visit. Here they can ride around the park on a little train, visit the enchanted river, ride on the backs of ponies and camels, watch theatrical productions, and play games to their hearts content. They can go on nature trails and attend workshops combining play with an active learning experience and there are some great restaurants here too.
Parc Zoologique et Botanique
51 Rue du Jardin Zoologique
68100 Mulhouse
Here at Mulhouse Zoo you'll see a wonderful collection of rare animals. Charmingly, the stars of the show have all been named: you can get to meet Sidoine, the blue-eyed lemur, Sannon the sea lion, Jurij, the polar bear, and Baïkal, the Siberian tiger. The botanical gardens are not to be missed either; look out for the purple Acer Palm and enjoy a walk through the peony, iris and dahlia gardens. It’s an oasis of calm.
Planete Sauvage
La Chevalerie
44710 Port St Pere
With safari trails covering five continents, a dolphin city, a bush village, jungle bridge, 4x4 adventures, a bivouac, shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone at Planete Sauvage. Among the many animals here are the giraffe, elephant, hippo, bison, cheetah, lion, tiger, wolf and zebra. If you sign up for their VIP Safari you'll be able to see it all from the park's Landrover, get a behind the scenes look at what goes on, and meet a trainer.
Réserve Africaine
19 Chemin Hameau du lac
11130 Sigean
Roughly equidistant Carcassonne and Perpignan is the Réserve Africaine which plays host to more than 3800 animals. Research, conservation, education and recreation are at the heart of this place as it aims to increase our knowledge of wild animals, breed threatened species and help people to understand their interdependence and their relationship with their environment, all in a natural setting.
Zoo Parc de Beauval
41110 Saint-Aignan
The Zoo Parc de Beauval has more than 4600 animals including koalas, okapi, manatees, tree kangaroos, tigers, white lions and more than 20 different kinds of monkey. Within the last few years they have successfully introduce giant pandas to the fold, an addition which caused pandemonium among the zoo's visitors and the world's press as they jostled for photographs. Thankfully, the excitement has subsided a little and the pandas are now able to relax properly in their new found surroundings.
About Hamiltons
We provide high quality removals to France for all types of domestic and commercial move. Whether you require packing, cleaning and storage or just the transportation of your belongings, we can help.
Hamiltons Removals – Removals to France – click here for full information on our moving to France service.
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