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.
Wednesday, 11 September 2013
Removals to France: Rugby in France
Whatever your reason for moving house to France, if you’re a rugby fan, you will be glad of one thing: the French are as passionate about their sport as we are.
Your removals to France need make no difference to the amount or the quality of rugby you get to see and/or play; as week in, week out, up and down the country, top class teams featuring famous names turn out to do battle. In this article we'll be taking an impartial look at France's Top 14 rugby clubs.
Hamiltons Removals offer a bespoke removals service to destinations throughout the UK, Europe, and internationally. We are British Association of Removers (BAR) registered and FAIM accredited. We are also members of the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered, so you can rest assured for removals to France you are in safe hands.
Moving House To France – Click on this link to find out more about our full range of European removal services.
Here we take a look at the top French rugby teams in the order in which they stand at the time of writing.
Clermont Auvergne
35 Rue du Clos Four,
63000 Clermont-Ferrand.
If you’re moving to Auvergne, you are moving to the heart of French rugby. ASM Clermont Auvergne have been plying their trade since 1911, contesting the French Championship on numerous occasions, before finally winning the trophy in 2012. Fielding such great names as Julien Bonnaire, Nathan Hines and the commentators favourite, Aurelien Rougerie among so many others, you are guaranteed a great day’s entertainment.
Toulon
Avenue de la République,
83000, Toulon.
The prospect of moving to Toulon is surely enough to set any rugby nut’s heart racing. With Delon Armitage at full back, the unpredictable but often brilliant Freddy Michalak at scrum half, and a certain Jonny Wilkinson at fly, your weekends at home will be something to savour. The town goes rugby crazy on match days as the fully enclosed 14,700 seat Stade Mayol reverberates to the chant of the Pilou Pilou.
Toulouse
114 Rue des Troènes,
31200 Toulouse
With arguably one of the greatest rugby teams in Europe on your doorstep, moving to Toulouse would be a dream come true for any rugby fan. With the likes of Poitrenaud, Picamoles and Dusautoir, not to mention Clerc and Beauxis, satisfaction is virtually assured. Add the Mediterranean climate and the fabulous shopping and it shouldn’t be too great a hardship for any rugby widow either.
Castres
205 Avenue Charles de Gaulle
81100 Castres
Moving to Castres in the south of France will bring you into (almost) direct contact with some of the greatest names in world rugby. Scotland's Ritchie Gray, New Zealand's Danny Kirkpatrick, and our own Marcel Garvey, are just a few of the famous international names playing alongside some true home-grown talent. The team have recently been crowned 2013 Champions of France with a win over European champions Toulon.
Montpellier
500 Avenue de Vanières,
34070 Montpellier,
Moving to Montpellier, the capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon will put you within a ticket and a short drive of Montpellier Hérault Rugby. Currently 5th in the table their squad boasts such formidable characters as Trinh-Duc, Chobet and Sébastien Petit and at 1m 87 and 117kg, there's nothing "small" about him. With regular appearances in the Heineken Cup, the Amlin Challenge Cup, and the Shield, silverware is never too far away.
Racing Metro
11, Avenue Paul Langevin
92350 Le Plessis-Robinson, Paris
Irish and Welsh eyes will be smiling in Paris next season as the legend that is Ronan O’Gara has agreed to assist with the coaching at Racing Metro. If you are moving to Paris, you can catch him and other famous names like Jamie Roberts, Dan Lydiate and maybe even "the caveman" Sebastien Chabal as they work their magic for France’s capital city.
Perpignan
11 Allée Aimé Giral
66000 Perpignan
Kit yourselves out in red and gold and you’re sure to fit in just fine if you are moving to Perpignan. At, or near the top of the French Championship for many years, their 14,593-seater stadium is rarely at much less than capacity. Since their Top 14 triumph in 2008/9 they have continued to perform well, making a number of appearances in the Heineken Cup. Look out for Luke Narraway, ex of Gloucester at No. 8, and Richard Haughton on the wing.
Bayonne
Rond point St Léon
64100 Bayonne
Featuring a raft of imported talent from as far afield as Tonga, Fiji, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia, Bayonne’s team sheet reads more like an address to the commonwealth than a weekly work roster. Moving to Bayonne you’ll be treated to the rugby stylings of players such as Vaka Saïmoni, Neemia Tialata, Dewald Senekal, Gert Muller, not to mention the former Crusaders and Blues fly half Stephen Brett.
Biarritz
Rue Cino del Duca
64200, Biarritz
If you are moving to Biarritz, you can look forward to the rugby viewing pleasure that is Biarritz Olympique. The BOPB have competed in the Top 14 and the Heineken Cup and in 2011-12, they won the Amlin Challenge Cup, beating Jonny Wilkinson’s Toulon in an 18-21 nail biter. The squad features a number of internationals including American, winger Takudzwa Ngwenya.
Grenoble
Rue Albert Reynier
38100 Grenoble
If you are moving to Grenoble, you’ll be in good company as former England back Olly Barkley is set to join them from Parisian side Racing Metro. The side already features some great internationals including Daniel Kilioni of Tonga, Roland Bernard of South Africa and Australia's Dayna Edwards. Relative newcomers to the Top 14, they recently beat champions Toulouse 15-6 in a dramatic home win.
Stade Francais
Avenue du Général Sarrail
75016 Paris
If you’re moving to Paris and love rugby, prepare to wear pink. Rugby strips don’t come much pinker than that worn by Stade Francais in 2010. It was then president Max Guazzini’s idea to kit his team out in eye-popping pink and since then the players have got used to wearing some pretty amazing Kenzo designed shirts in all sorts of colours. One standard motif however, whatever the colour, is the three bolts of lightning.
Bordeaux-Begles
25 rue Delphin Loche
33130 Bègles
Moving to Bègles puts you in line for some great local rugby. Union Bordeaux-Begles to give them their full title have been a Super 14 club since their promotion at the end of 2010/11. Their newfound status amongst the big boys of French rugby has seen them attract some top class players from around the world including Heinie Adams from South Africa, Rafaël Carballo of Argentina and Australia’s Connor Blair.
Agen
1, Rue Pierre de Coubertin
47000 Agen
Rugby fans moving to Lot-et-Garonne in the lush south west of France and those moving to Agen in particular are in for a real treat. The Lot Valley and infact the entire south west of France, is a hot bed for rugby union and fans of SU Agen follow the club avidly. Promoted to the French Top 14 in 2010, their games are always hotly contested and make for a very entertaining afternoon.
Mont de Marsan
270 Avenue du Stade,
40000 Mont-de-Marsan
Another recently promoted side, Mont de Marsan feature a number of quality internationals in their predominantly French line up. Among them are Canada’s Luke Tait, at Lock and Australia’s Ben Coutts at Prop. In the past they have fielded French rugby legend Thomas Castaignède and the Fijian ex-Tiger Waisale Serevi. With this kind of pedigree, it surely will not be too long before we see a protégé of Dal Maso and Prosper playing for Les Bleus.
About Hamitons Removals
Hamiltons Removals pride ourselves on our customer service and our attention to detail. Our distinctly liveried removals vehicles are manned by time served, uniformed removals operatives, there to ensure your move to France goes as smoothly as possible.
Click here for a free European removals quote.
Your removals to France need make no difference to the amount or the quality of rugby you get to see and/or play; as week in, week out, up and down the country, top class teams featuring famous names turn out to do battle. In this article we'll be taking an impartial look at France's Top 14 rugby clubs.
Hamiltons Removals offer a bespoke removals service to destinations throughout the UK, Europe, and internationally. We are British Association of Removers (BAR) registered and FAIM accredited. We are also members of the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered, so you can rest assured for removals to France you are in safe hands.
Moving House To France – Click on this link to find out more about our full range of European removal services.
Here we take a look at the top French rugby teams in the order in which they stand at the time of writing.
Clermont Auvergne
35 Rue du Clos Four,
63000 Clermont-Ferrand.
If you’re moving to Auvergne, you are moving to the heart of French rugby. ASM Clermont Auvergne have been plying their trade since 1911, contesting the French Championship on numerous occasions, before finally winning the trophy in 2012. Fielding such great names as Julien Bonnaire, Nathan Hines and the commentators favourite, Aurelien Rougerie among so many others, you are guaranteed a great day’s entertainment.
Toulon
Avenue de la République,
83000, Toulon.
The prospect of moving to Toulon is surely enough to set any rugby nut’s heart racing. With Delon Armitage at full back, the unpredictable but often brilliant Freddy Michalak at scrum half, and a certain Jonny Wilkinson at fly, your weekends at home will be something to savour. The town goes rugby crazy on match days as the fully enclosed 14,700 seat Stade Mayol reverberates to the chant of the Pilou Pilou.
Toulouse
114 Rue des Troènes,
31200 Toulouse
With arguably one of the greatest rugby teams in Europe on your doorstep, moving to Toulouse would be a dream come true for any rugby fan. With the likes of Poitrenaud, Picamoles and Dusautoir, not to mention Clerc and Beauxis, satisfaction is virtually assured. Add the Mediterranean climate and the fabulous shopping and it shouldn’t be too great a hardship for any rugby widow either.
Castres
205 Avenue Charles de Gaulle
81100 Castres
Moving to Castres in the south of France will bring you into (almost) direct contact with some of the greatest names in world rugby. Scotland's Ritchie Gray, New Zealand's Danny Kirkpatrick, and our own Marcel Garvey, are just a few of the famous international names playing alongside some true home-grown talent. The team have recently been crowned 2013 Champions of France with a win over European champions Toulon.
Montpellier
500 Avenue de Vanières,
34070 Montpellier,
Moving to Montpellier, the capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon will put you within a ticket and a short drive of Montpellier Hérault Rugby. Currently 5th in the table their squad boasts such formidable characters as Trinh-Duc, Chobet and Sébastien Petit and at 1m 87 and 117kg, there's nothing "small" about him. With regular appearances in the Heineken Cup, the Amlin Challenge Cup, and the Shield, silverware is never too far away.
Racing Metro
11, Avenue Paul Langevin
92350 Le Plessis-Robinson, Paris
Irish and Welsh eyes will be smiling in Paris next season as the legend that is Ronan O’Gara has agreed to assist with the coaching at Racing Metro. If you are moving to Paris, you can catch him and other famous names like Jamie Roberts, Dan Lydiate and maybe even "the caveman" Sebastien Chabal as they work their magic for France’s capital city.
Perpignan
11 Allée Aimé Giral
66000 Perpignan
Kit yourselves out in red and gold and you’re sure to fit in just fine if you are moving to Perpignan. At, or near the top of the French Championship for many years, their 14,593-seater stadium is rarely at much less than capacity. Since their Top 14 triumph in 2008/9 they have continued to perform well, making a number of appearances in the Heineken Cup. Look out for Luke Narraway, ex of Gloucester at No. 8, and Richard Haughton on the wing.
Bayonne
Rond point St Léon
64100 Bayonne
Featuring a raft of imported talent from as far afield as Tonga, Fiji, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia, Bayonne’s team sheet reads more like an address to the commonwealth than a weekly work roster. Moving to Bayonne you’ll be treated to the rugby stylings of players such as Vaka Saïmoni, Neemia Tialata, Dewald Senekal, Gert Muller, not to mention the former Crusaders and Blues fly half Stephen Brett.
Biarritz
Rue Cino del Duca
64200, Biarritz
If you are moving to Biarritz, you can look forward to the rugby viewing pleasure that is Biarritz Olympique. The BOPB have competed in the Top 14 and the Heineken Cup and in 2011-12, they won the Amlin Challenge Cup, beating Jonny Wilkinson’s Toulon in an 18-21 nail biter. The squad features a number of internationals including American, winger Takudzwa Ngwenya.
Grenoble
Rue Albert Reynier
38100 Grenoble
If you are moving to Grenoble, you’ll be in good company as former England back Olly Barkley is set to join them from Parisian side Racing Metro. The side already features some great internationals including Daniel Kilioni of Tonga, Roland Bernard of South Africa and Australia's Dayna Edwards. Relative newcomers to the Top 14, they recently beat champions Toulouse 15-6 in a dramatic home win.
Stade Francais
Avenue du Général Sarrail
75016 Paris
If you’re moving to Paris and love rugby, prepare to wear pink. Rugby strips don’t come much pinker than that worn by Stade Francais in 2010. It was then president Max Guazzini’s idea to kit his team out in eye-popping pink and since then the players have got used to wearing some pretty amazing Kenzo designed shirts in all sorts of colours. One standard motif however, whatever the colour, is the three bolts of lightning.
Bordeaux-Begles
25 rue Delphin Loche
33130 Bègles
Moving to Bègles puts you in line for some great local rugby. Union Bordeaux-Begles to give them their full title have been a Super 14 club since their promotion at the end of 2010/11. Their newfound status amongst the big boys of French rugby has seen them attract some top class players from around the world including Heinie Adams from South Africa, Rafaël Carballo of Argentina and Australia’s Connor Blair.
Agen
1, Rue Pierre de Coubertin
47000 Agen
Rugby fans moving to Lot-et-Garonne in the lush south west of France and those moving to Agen in particular are in for a real treat. The Lot Valley and infact the entire south west of France, is a hot bed for rugby union and fans of SU Agen follow the club avidly. Promoted to the French Top 14 in 2010, their games are always hotly contested and make for a very entertaining afternoon.
Mont de Marsan
270 Avenue du Stade,
40000 Mont-de-Marsan
Another recently promoted side, Mont de Marsan feature a number of quality internationals in their predominantly French line up. Among them are Canada’s Luke Tait, at Lock and Australia’s Ben Coutts at Prop. In the past they have fielded French rugby legend Thomas Castaignède and the Fijian ex-Tiger Waisale Serevi. With this kind of pedigree, it surely will not be too long before we see a protégé of Dal Maso and Prosper playing for Les Bleus.
About Hamitons Removals
Hamiltons Removals pride ourselves on our customer service and our attention to detail. Our distinctly liveried removals vehicles are manned by time served, uniformed removals operatives, there to ensure your move to France goes as smoothly as possible.
Click here for a free European removals quote.
Monday, 9 September 2013
Removals to France: Adventure Sports
If you are moving to France and have a passion for adventure sports you will not be disappointed! Many of you will have already done your homework. Having researched your removals to France, you might already be looking forward to the challenge of Mont Blanc or to the hiking trails and cliff climbing on offer in the Chaudefour valley. If you prefer to look for your thrills underground, you may already targeted the Cévennes and discovered the caving and potholing there is fabulous. For those of you who like taking to the skies, there are paragliding and sky diving opportunities aplenty in the land of Les Bleus.
At Hamiltons Removals and whatever your sport and however much kit you need to take with you, we will safely pack, load, store, transport and unpack it for you with the care and attention necessary to ensure it arrives in perfect condition, ready to use.
For safe, secure moves from the UK to France, call us today or click here to find out more about our European removals service
Here we look at the top adventure sports France has to offer.
Abseiling or Rappelling
Wherever you find a rock face or even just a tall building, you'll find an abseiling opportunity; but why not be surrounded by some of the best countryside France has to offer on your descent? If you are moving to the Dordogne, you're in luck. The area has some stunning natural rock formations which are ideal for abseiling. Look out for the facilities at Bassignac; there are 20 or so routes available, suiting "abbers" or "rappers" of every ability.
Caving and Potholing
If you are moving to Languedoc you must check out the caving and pot-holing on offer in the Cevennes near Florac. Over hundreds of years a network of caves and tunnels has been carved out of the limestone, leaving behind some quite wonderful natural features like underground rivers, waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites. Give yourself a good 4 to 5 hours to properly appreciate this natural wonder.
Paragliding
Paragliding is very popular in France with over 960 official paragliding sites. If you are moving to Rhone-Alpes, you probably will not go a day without seeing, or at least hearing, one of these machines. There are over 250 sites in this area alone, but when you consider the beauty of the surroundings, it is perhaps hardly surprising. Another favoured destination for paragliders is Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, with just shy of 100 flying stations.
Quad Biking
Quad Biking is popular throughout France, but perhaps nowhere more so than in the south where you can ride around all day posing on a four-wheeler whilst catching a great suntan. Make sure you apply plenty of sun cream though, as the breeze can be deceptively cooling. If you are moving to Cote d’Azur you’ll see quads everywhere. They are readily available to hire, or buy, but you do need a licence to able to ride one on the public roads.
Power Boating
There are 3 different types of licence required, depending on the size and power of your vessel: La Carte Mer, Le Permis Cotier, and Le Permis Hauturier, but for most purposes Le Permis Cotier will suffice. This allows you to pilot any boat, as long as you don’t venture more than 5 miles from the coast. Here's the good news though: if you are moving to France with your own, British registered boat, you will not need any of the above.
Jetskiing
Unlike the Swedes, the French on the whole don’t have a problem with jet-skis - they love them. But you do need to be properly qualified and insured. Here's what you'll need: European Insurance cover, an RYA PWC Certificate, all the ownership documents for your ski, a life jacket, sunscreen and a cool pair of shades. The RYA training doesn't cost much (£150) for a day's tutorial and they even give you a translation letter in 5 different languages.
White Water Rafting
If gritting your teeth and battling to stay upright in maximum turbulence is your idea of fun, and you just so happen to be moving to Alpes-de-Haute-Province, head for the River Verdon. Running through a number of artificial lakes before falling into the Durance close to Vinon-sur-Verdon, it is best known for the Verdon Gorge. A popular spot amongst rock climbers too, France's “Grand Canyon” produces Class II and Class III rapids.
Mountain Biking or VTT
Mountain biking or Vélo Tout Terrain, as it is known in France, is extremely popular. The FFC (Federation Francais de Cyclisme) oversees many of the parks and has graded trails from green for beginners, to black for the most serious mountain bikers. If you are moving to Languedoc-Roussillion, you'll find 10 such parks with more than 100km of trails which are all properly signposted and well maintained.
Sky diving
With more than 60 dropzones (or DeeZee's) offering a mix of tandem, static line and AFF jumps, sky diving is another popular high adrenaline sport in France. There are sky diving schools throughout the country from northern Paris to Pau and Tarbes in the southwest, so even if you are moving to Lyon, with the proper training you could get to jump out of an airplane.
Land Yachting
Call it what you like, land sailing, sand yachting, or Blo-karting, this sport is exhilaration beyond belief. You can reach speeds of up to 40mph and when you consider you're just inches from the ground and you have no brakes, the rush is incredible. If you are moving to northern France and want to take up the sport, you're in luck; it's the world centre for land yachting and almost every beach has a club.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals offer a range of removal services to suit your individual requirements. Contact us today for your free removals quotation and let us take the strain of your European move.
At Hamiltons Removals and whatever your sport and however much kit you need to take with you, we will safely pack, load, store, transport and unpack it for you with the care and attention necessary to ensure it arrives in perfect condition, ready to use.
For safe, secure moves from the UK to France, call us today or click here to find out more about our European removals service
Here we look at the top adventure sports France has to offer.
Abseiling or Rappelling
Wherever you find a rock face or even just a tall building, you'll find an abseiling opportunity; but why not be surrounded by some of the best countryside France has to offer on your descent? If you are moving to the Dordogne, you're in luck. The area has some stunning natural rock formations which are ideal for abseiling. Look out for the facilities at Bassignac; there are 20 or so routes available, suiting "abbers" or "rappers" of every ability.
Caving and Potholing
If you are moving to Languedoc you must check out the caving and pot-holing on offer in the Cevennes near Florac. Over hundreds of years a network of caves and tunnels has been carved out of the limestone, leaving behind some quite wonderful natural features like underground rivers, waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites. Give yourself a good 4 to 5 hours to properly appreciate this natural wonder.
Paragliding
Paragliding is very popular in France with over 960 official paragliding sites. If you are moving to Rhone-Alpes, you probably will not go a day without seeing, or at least hearing, one of these machines. There are over 250 sites in this area alone, but when you consider the beauty of the surroundings, it is perhaps hardly surprising. Another favoured destination for paragliders is Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, with just shy of 100 flying stations.
Quad Biking
Quad Biking is popular throughout France, but perhaps nowhere more so than in the south where you can ride around all day posing on a four-wheeler whilst catching a great suntan. Make sure you apply plenty of sun cream though, as the breeze can be deceptively cooling. If you are moving to Cote d’Azur you’ll see quads everywhere. They are readily available to hire, or buy, but you do need a licence to able to ride one on the public roads.
Power Boating
There are 3 different types of licence required, depending on the size and power of your vessel: La Carte Mer, Le Permis Cotier, and Le Permis Hauturier, but for most purposes Le Permis Cotier will suffice. This allows you to pilot any boat, as long as you don’t venture more than 5 miles from the coast. Here's the good news though: if you are moving to France with your own, British registered boat, you will not need any of the above.
Jetskiing
Unlike the Swedes, the French on the whole don’t have a problem with jet-skis - they love them. But you do need to be properly qualified and insured. Here's what you'll need: European Insurance cover, an RYA PWC Certificate, all the ownership documents for your ski, a life jacket, sunscreen and a cool pair of shades. The RYA training doesn't cost much (£150) for a day's tutorial and they even give you a translation letter in 5 different languages.
White Water Rafting
If gritting your teeth and battling to stay upright in maximum turbulence is your idea of fun, and you just so happen to be moving to Alpes-de-Haute-Province, head for the River Verdon. Running through a number of artificial lakes before falling into the Durance close to Vinon-sur-Verdon, it is best known for the Verdon Gorge. A popular spot amongst rock climbers too, France's “Grand Canyon” produces Class II and Class III rapids.
Mountain Biking or VTT
Mountain biking or Vélo Tout Terrain, as it is known in France, is extremely popular. The FFC (Federation Francais de Cyclisme) oversees many of the parks and has graded trails from green for beginners, to black for the most serious mountain bikers. If you are moving to Languedoc-Roussillion, you'll find 10 such parks with more than 100km of trails which are all properly signposted and well maintained.
Sky diving
With more than 60 dropzones (or DeeZee's) offering a mix of tandem, static line and AFF jumps, sky diving is another popular high adrenaline sport in France. There are sky diving schools throughout the country from northern Paris to Pau and Tarbes in the southwest, so even if you are moving to Lyon, with the proper training you could get to jump out of an airplane.
Land Yachting
Call it what you like, land sailing, sand yachting, or Blo-karting, this sport is exhilaration beyond belief. You can reach speeds of up to 40mph and when you consider you're just inches from the ground and you have no brakes, the rush is incredible. If you are moving to northern France and want to take up the sport, you're in luck; it's the world centre for land yachting and almost every beach has a club.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals offer a range of removal services to suit your individual requirements. Contact us today for your free removals quotation and let us take the strain of your European move.
Thursday, 5 September 2013
Removals to France: Michelin Starred Restaurants in France
France is known throughout the world for its gastronomic delights. Flavoursome cuisine and regional delicacies abound here, so you will have little trouble in finding an excellent restaurant in which to celebrate your removals to France. In this article we take a look at some of the best restaurants France has to offer, so you'll know where to head for when you arrive.
Hamiltons Removals have been offering high quality removals to France for more than 20 years. We regularly undertake trips to and from Europe as well as to the US, Asia and Australia.
European and International Removals to France – If you are moving from the UK to France, click here to find out more about our removals service.
What is a Michelin Starred Restaurant?
A Michelin starred restaurant is one that is deemed to be excellent in its category. If a restaurant is given two stars the cooking is considered outstanding and it is, in Michelin parlance, “worth a detour”. Three stars is the highest Michelin accolade. It’s awarded to restaurants serving exceptional food worth making a special journey for.
The rating system was the brainchild of André and Édouard Michelin of Michelin tyres, who came up with the idea in an effort to boost the sales of their car tyres. Hence the reason the awards have a travel related theme.
Since its first publication in 1900, the Michelin guide has become the industry standard and a mention in the annually produced little red book is regarded by restaurateurs throughout the world as the Holy Grail.
Stars can be lost as well as won so the incentive to achieve and maintain standards of excellence is always present. Add this to the fact that visits from Michelin inspectors are always conducted in secret and you have a recipe for consistently great food.
In the latest edition of the guide (2012), France tops the table in terms of Michelin starred restaurants, with 26 achieving the much-coveted 3 star accolade. Imagine that - a different 3 star Michelin restaurant every fortnight for a whole year and who knows, one of them could be just around the corner from your new French home? Here are ten of them just to whet your appetite. We’ll round up the others in a future article on the subject of French fine dining. Enjoy!
Les Flocons De Sel
1775 Route du Leutaz 74120 Megève, Rhône-Alpes.
The newest member of the elite Michelin 3 star dining club, Les Flocons De Sel is headed by chef Emmanuel Renaut, who previously worked at The Hôtel de Crillon in Paris and Claridge's of Mayfair.
L'Arnsbourg
18 Route de Baerenthal 57230 Philippsbourg, Lorraine.
Lorraine in North Eastern France is where you'll find chef Jean-Georges Klein plating up some unusual dishes. Not content to stick with the tried and tested, Jean-Georges delights in creating new and exciting food combinations.
Maison Lameloise
36 Place d'Armes 71150 Chagny, Bourgogne.
Chef Eric Pras has recently taken the helm at this lovely restaurant in the Burgundy region of France. He has managed to successfully bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, presenting dishes with a flair that is all his own.
Les Prés d'Eugénie
334 Rue Rena Vielle 40320 Euganie-les-Bains, Aquitaine.
Michel Guérard is the man in charge here and his restaurant, deep in the south west of France makes no apology for it. His style and presentation are all over this place from the very fabric of the building to the food itself.
Auberge du Vieux Puits
5 Avenue Saint-Victor 11360 Fontjoncouse, Aude.
Gilles Goujon is at the head of this fine table. Here he plays with flavours as Mozart played with notes. He and his wife took over at The Old Well Inn back in 1992 and have transformed it into one of the finest restaurants in France.
Auberge de l'Ill
2 Rue de Collonges au Mont d'Or 68970 Illhaeusern, Alsace.
L'Auberge de l'Ill has been a 3 star Michelin restaurant for over 45 years now and dining here has been described as an outstanding lifetime experience. They achieve their star rating time and time again for an excellent menu and service to match.
La Côte Saint Jacques
14 Faubourg de Paris 89300 Joigny, Burgundy.
Chef Jean-Michel Lorain heads up this jewel in the gustatory crown of Burgundy. The youngest chef to ever receive 3 stars, the restaurant is full even on a Tuesday and offers excellent food, a great range of wines, and first class service.
Michel Bras
Route de l'Aubrac 12210 Laguiole, Aveyron.
Rarely do wonderful views and such great food come together in quite the way they do at Michel Bras. Here in Laguiole, Michel and son Sebastian blend simplicity with sophistication to produce an exceptional contemporary dining experience.
Paul Bocuse
40 Rue de la Plage 69660 Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or, Rhône.
Classically French cuisine and a welcoming service await you at Paul Bocuse. At 87, he is a rock star among chefs but unlike most rock stars, he is not averse to walking the room and posing for photos. From uniformed meet ‘n’ greet to sommelier, the experience is divine.
Le Petit Nice
Anse de Maldormé, Corniche J.F. Kennedy 13007 Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Here you'll find Gérald Passedat, ex of The Crillon and a contemporary of Michel Guérard. Le Petit Nice is seafood heaven and Passedat's passion for it is obvious. Imagine a 5-course fish menu with wine to suit each dish, coupled with some remarkable sea views.
About Hamiltons
At Hamiltons Removals we offer three main types of service to those looking for removals to Europe. Our dedicated service gives you sole use of a vehicle or vehicles. Our special service allows you to specify the collection and delivery dates, and our part load or groupage service means that several loads for different customers are grouped together and share the same vehicle.
Call our friendly staff today for a competitive removals quotation today and let us take the stress out of your European house removal.
Moving House to France – click on the above link to find out which of our removals to France services is best for you.
Hamiltons Removals have been offering high quality removals to France for more than 20 years. We regularly undertake trips to and from Europe as well as to the US, Asia and Australia.
European and International Removals to France – If you are moving from the UK to France, click here to find out more about our removals service.
What is a Michelin Starred Restaurant?
A Michelin starred restaurant is one that is deemed to be excellent in its category. If a restaurant is given two stars the cooking is considered outstanding and it is, in Michelin parlance, “worth a detour”. Three stars is the highest Michelin accolade. It’s awarded to restaurants serving exceptional food worth making a special journey for.
The rating system was the brainchild of André and Édouard Michelin of Michelin tyres, who came up with the idea in an effort to boost the sales of their car tyres. Hence the reason the awards have a travel related theme.
Since its first publication in 1900, the Michelin guide has become the industry standard and a mention in the annually produced little red book is regarded by restaurateurs throughout the world as the Holy Grail.
Stars can be lost as well as won so the incentive to achieve and maintain standards of excellence is always present. Add this to the fact that visits from Michelin inspectors are always conducted in secret and you have a recipe for consistently great food.
In the latest edition of the guide (2012), France tops the table in terms of Michelin starred restaurants, with 26 achieving the much-coveted 3 star accolade. Imagine that - a different 3 star Michelin restaurant every fortnight for a whole year and who knows, one of them could be just around the corner from your new French home? Here are ten of them just to whet your appetite. We’ll round up the others in a future article on the subject of French fine dining. Enjoy!
Les Flocons De Sel
1775 Route du Leutaz 74120 Megève, Rhône-Alpes.
The newest member of the elite Michelin 3 star dining club, Les Flocons De Sel is headed by chef Emmanuel Renaut, who previously worked at The Hôtel de Crillon in Paris and Claridge's of Mayfair.
L'Arnsbourg
18 Route de Baerenthal 57230 Philippsbourg, Lorraine.
Lorraine in North Eastern France is where you'll find chef Jean-Georges Klein plating up some unusual dishes. Not content to stick with the tried and tested, Jean-Georges delights in creating new and exciting food combinations.
Maison Lameloise
36 Place d'Armes 71150 Chagny, Bourgogne.
Chef Eric Pras has recently taken the helm at this lovely restaurant in the Burgundy region of France. He has managed to successfully bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, presenting dishes with a flair that is all his own.
Les Prés d'Eugénie
334 Rue Rena Vielle 40320 Euganie-les-Bains, Aquitaine.
Michel Guérard is the man in charge here and his restaurant, deep in the south west of France makes no apology for it. His style and presentation are all over this place from the very fabric of the building to the food itself.
Auberge du Vieux Puits
5 Avenue Saint-Victor 11360 Fontjoncouse, Aude.
Gilles Goujon is at the head of this fine table. Here he plays with flavours as Mozart played with notes. He and his wife took over at The Old Well Inn back in 1992 and have transformed it into one of the finest restaurants in France.
Auberge de l'Ill
2 Rue de Collonges au Mont d'Or 68970 Illhaeusern, Alsace.
L'Auberge de l'Ill has been a 3 star Michelin restaurant for over 45 years now and dining here has been described as an outstanding lifetime experience. They achieve their star rating time and time again for an excellent menu and service to match.
La Côte Saint Jacques
14 Faubourg de Paris 89300 Joigny, Burgundy.
Chef Jean-Michel Lorain heads up this jewel in the gustatory crown of Burgundy. The youngest chef to ever receive 3 stars, the restaurant is full even on a Tuesday and offers excellent food, a great range of wines, and first class service.
Michel Bras
Route de l'Aubrac 12210 Laguiole, Aveyron.
Rarely do wonderful views and such great food come together in quite the way they do at Michel Bras. Here in Laguiole, Michel and son Sebastian blend simplicity with sophistication to produce an exceptional contemporary dining experience.
Paul Bocuse
40 Rue de la Plage 69660 Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or, Rhône.
Classically French cuisine and a welcoming service await you at Paul Bocuse. At 87, he is a rock star among chefs but unlike most rock stars, he is not averse to walking the room and posing for photos. From uniformed meet ‘n’ greet to sommelier, the experience is divine.
Le Petit Nice
Anse de Maldormé, Corniche J.F. Kennedy 13007 Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Here you'll find Gérald Passedat, ex of The Crillon and a contemporary of Michel Guérard. Le Petit Nice is seafood heaven and Passedat's passion for it is obvious. Imagine a 5-course fish menu with wine to suit each dish, coupled with some remarkable sea views.
About Hamiltons
At Hamiltons Removals we offer three main types of service to those looking for removals to Europe. Our dedicated service gives you sole use of a vehicle or vehicles. Our special service allows you to specify the collection and delivery dates, and our part load or groupage service means that several loads for different customers are grouped together and share the same vehicle.
Call our friendly staff today for a competitive removals quotation today and let us take the stress out of your European house removal.
Moving House to France – click on the above link to find out which of our removals to France services is best for you.
Wednesday, 31 July 2013
Removals to France: International Schools
Whatever your reason for seeking removals to France, whether it’s a lifestyle choice or a necessary move with work, if you have children of school age you will need to consider the impact such a move will have upon their education.
There is no denying that your removals to France has faced you with an important decision, and one that will fundamentally affect your children's future. Do you send them to one of the UK’s fine boarding schools, having them attend as a weekly boarder or on a full-time basis? Or, do you pull them out of the British schooling system altogether, enrolling them in an International School instead?
The good news is that there are more than 100 high quality international schools in France and these are scattered all over the country. So, if your move to France is necessary and unavoidable and if you'd rather not send your youngsters to boarding school in the UK, you don’t have to.
Hamiltons Removals offer a high quality, bespoke removals service to France, Europe and the wider world. We pride ourselves on our great customer service and individual attention to detail. We bring you this blogpost to spotlight on some of the top international schools in France. Here, we’ll outline the benefits and give you at least an idea of what to expect.
Moving House to France – click here to find out more about our professional removals service.
What is an International School?
International schools have a number of qualities that differ from other schools, either local or otherwise. For example, they allow for the transfer of students’ education across international schools, provide an international curriculum and accreditation, and either English or bi-lingual teaching.
International Schools provide education programmes that lead to qualifications under the banner of the International Baccalaureate (IB), which has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities. The schools take pupils from primary school age, right through to their diploma years with programmes split as follows:
Primary Years Programme (PYP) Ages 3 - 12
The PYP focuses on the six core subjects of language, maths, science, social studies, arts and personal, social and physical education. Its purpose is to prepare students to take an active part in the process of learning and encourage them to take this forward into the Middle Years Programme and beyond.
Middle Years Programme (MYP) Ages 11 – 16
The MYP encourages learning in eight subjects: two languages (at least), humanities, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical education and technology. Its purpose is to promote creativity and nurture the desire for intellectual challenge. It is designed to develop communication skills and the students’ understanding of their intercultural and global engagement.
Diploma Programme (DP) Ages 16 - 19
The IB Diploma Programme prepares students for success in their university studies and in their working life. It is academically challenging and designed to further develop the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of the student.
What are the Benefits of an International School?
Aside from the obvious geographical benefits, international schools offer a more diverse, well-rounded and holistic approach to learning. They teach in preparation for the wider world, a much smaller world in which global communication and an awareness and understanding of cultural diversity have become all important.
International schools offer an education that goes far beyond the three R’s. They offer the opportunity to develop cross-cultural understanding, a truly international outlook and the ability to build quality relationships with people from very different backgrounds. They centre on bringing children together to learn, grow and develop in an environment of understanding and acceptance.
International Schools in Paris
There are a number of international schools based in Paris including The Victor Hugo School, Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel, and Ermitage International School.
The Victor Hugo School
23, rue de Cronstadt
75015 Paris
The Victor Hugo School welcomes students from all nationalities and offers an English language programme from pre-school to high school. Using English as the main language of the classroom, French is taught daily in groups split by their ability. Music, art and sport are all taught in French to IGCSE and A level.
Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel
70, rue du Théâtre
75015 Paris
EABJM is one of the top schools of its kind in Paris. The school’s record for academic excellence is matched by its cultural diversity.
The British School of Paris
38 Quai de l’Ecluse
78290 Croissy-sur-Seine
This is not an IB school, preferring instead to stick to the traditional British model. Its key-stage learning programme culminates in “A” level qualifications as recognised by the English National Curriculum
International Schools outside the Capital
Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel – Lille
418 bis, rue Albert Bailly
59700 Marcq-en-Baroeul
This school offers the same high quality of education as its parent school in Paris, without needing to trek to the capital. Ideal if you are moving to Lille or the surrounding area. The school is co-educational and offers boarding facilities.
International Bilingual School - Provence
Domaine des Pins
500 Petite Route de Bouc-Bel-Air, Aix-en-Provence
13080 LUYNES
IBS of Provence is an excellent secondary school catering for children of all languages. The classes are in both French and English but at Lycée level they can choose whether to take the International Bac with English as their first language or not. They can also take the International GCSE's. About half the students are French and they can also take the normal French Bac. Many children of different nationalities have several languages and this is also reflected in the nationalities of the teaching staff.
International School – Lyon
80 Chemin du Grand Roule,
69110 Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon.
The school delivers the IB Diploma programme and the IB Primary Years Programme and is an accredited centre for Cambridge International Examinations. Classes at ISL range from early years to high school and children are welcome from the age of three. Admission is based on school records, evaluation and, where appropriate, an interview or test. Extra-curricular activities and field trips are encouraged, as is participation in the school’s two active Student Councils and PTA.
OMBROSA Lycée Multilingue – Lyon
95 Quai Clemenceau
69300 Caluire
Ombrosa is a very good school, with a mix of nationalities, and it has an excellent record. It is predominantly for French children who want to learn English, and for children from overseas. They are taught in French mainly and this is helped by up to 14 hrs a week of French lessons. It’s a lovely old building on the river Saône and the school operates a bus service covering most of Lyon.
The International School – Toulouse
2 Allée Herbaudière,
31770 Colomiers,
The International School of Toulouse is a co-ed school in Colomiers near the historic city of Toulouse in south west France. The teaching is geared in English though there are a few students from Spain, France and Korea. The school is noted for its use of IT in teaching and learning, with every student from age nine onwards having the loan of a laptop computer.
International School – Nice
15, avenue Claude Debussy
06200 - Nice
The International School of Nice is an IB accredited, co-educational school. It teaches children from pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 and has been serving the French Riviera since 1976. Through a healthy mix of work, play and learning they provide an excellent educational experience and a range of opportunities for all students from diverse backgrounds.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals have been offering bespoke removals to France for more than 20 years now. We offer Full Container Load (FCL) Part Container Loads (LCL) and Groupage services to all parts of France, from Brittany in the north to Languedoc in the south. For your peace of mind and to assure you of the quality of service we offer, we are members of The British Association of Removers (BAR) and The Road Haulage Association and are also BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered.
With Hamiltons Removals, your belongings are in safe hands. Click here for your free, no obligation removals quote.
There is no denying that your removals to France has faced you with an important decision, and one that will fundamentally affect your children's future. Do you send them to one of the UK’s fine boarding schools, having them attend as a weekly boarder or on a full-time basis? Or, do you pull them out of the British schooling system altogether, enrolling them in an International School instead?
The good news is that there are more than 100 high quality international schools in France and these are scattered all over the country. So, if your move to France is necessary and unavoidable and if you'd rather not send your youngsters to boarding school in the UK, you don’t have to.
Hamiltons Removals offer a high quality, bespoke removals service to France, Europe and the wider world. We pride ourselves on our great customer service and individual attention to detail. We bring you this blogpost to spotlight on some of the top international schools in France. Here, we’ll outline the benefits and give you at least an idea of what to expect.
Moving House to France – click here to find out more about our professional removals service.
What is an International School?
International schools have a number of qualities that differ from other schools, either local or otherwise. For example, they allow for the transfer of students’ education across international schools, provide an international curriculum and accreditation, and either English or bi-lingual teaching.
International Schools provide education programmes that lead to qualifications under the banner of the International Baccalaureate (IB), which has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities. The schools take pupils from primary school age, right through to their diploma years with programmes split as follows:
Primary Years Programme (PYP) Ages 3 - 12
The PYP focuses on the six core subjects of language, maths, science, social studies, arts and personal, social and physical education. Its purpose is to prepare students to take an active part in the process of learning and encourage them to take this forward into the Middle Years Programme and beyond.
Middle Years Programme (MYP) Ages 11 – 16
The MYP encourages learning in eight subjects: two languages (at least), humanities, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical education and technology. Its purpose is to promote creativity and nurture the desire for intellectual challenge. It is designed to develop communication skills and the students’ understanding of their intercultural and global engagement.
Diploma Programme (DP) Ages 16 - 19
The IB Diploma Programme prepares students for success in their university studies and in their working life. It is academically challenging and designed to further develop the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of the student.
What are the Benefits of an International School?
Aside from the obvious geographical benefits, international schools offer a more diverse, well-rounded and holistic approach to learning. They teach in preparation for the wider world, a much smaller world in which global communication and an awareness and understanding of cultural diversity have become all important.
International schools offer an education that goes far beyond the three R’s. They offer the opportunity to develop cross-cultural understanding, a truly international outlook and the ability to build quality relationships with people from very different backgrounds. They centre on bringing children together to learn, grow and develop in an environment of understanding and acceptance.
International Schools in Paris
There are a number of international schools based in Paris including The Victor Hugo School, Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel, and Ermitage International School.
The Victor Hugo School
23, rue de Cronstadt
75015 Paris
The Victor Hugo School welcomes students from all nationalities and offers an English language programme from pre-school to high school. Using English as the main language of the classroom, French is taught daily in groups split by their ability. Music, art and sport are all taught in French to IGCSE and A level.
Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel
70, rue du Théâtre
75015 Paris
EABJM is one of the top schools of its kind in Paris. The school’s record for academic excellence is matched by its cultural diversity.
The British School of Paris
38 Quai de l’Ecluse
78290 Croissy-sur-Seine
This is not an IB school, preferring instead to stick to the traditional British model. Its key-stage learning programme culminates in “A” level qualifications as recognised by the English National Curriculum
International Schools outside the Capital
Ecole Active Bilingue Jeannine Manuel – Lille
418 bis, rue Albert Bailly
59700 Marcq-en-Baroeul
This school offers the same high quality of education as its parent school in Paris, without needing to trek to the capital. Ideal if you are moving to Lille or the surrounding area. The school is co-educational and offers boarding facilities.
International Bilingual School - Provence
Domaine des Pins
500 Petite Route de Bouc-Bel-Air, Aix-en-Provence
13080 LUYNES
IBS of Provence is an excellent secondary school catering for children of all languages. The classes are in both French and English but at Lycée level they can choose whether to take the International Bac with English as their first language or not. They can also take the International GCSE's. About half the students are French and they can also take the normal French Bac. Many children of different nationalities have several languages and this is also reflected in the nationalities of the teaching staff.
International School – Lyon
80 Chemin du Grand Roule,
69110 Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon.
The school delivers the IB Diploma programme and the IB Primary Years Programme and is an accredited centre for Cambridge International Examinations. Classes at ISL range from early years to high school and children are welcome from the age of three. Admission is based on school records, evaluation and, where appropriate, an interview or test. Extra-curricular activities and field trips are encouraged, as is participation in the school’s two active Student Councils and PTA.
OMBROSA Lycée Multilingue – Lyon
95 Quai Clemenceau
69300 Caluire
Ombrosa is a very good school, with a mix of nationalities, and it has an excellent record. It is predominantly for French children who want to learn English, and for children from overseas. They are taught in French mainly and this is helped by up to 14 hrs a week of French lessons. It’s a lovely old building on the river Saône and the school operates a bus service covering most of Lyon.
The International School – Toulouse
2 Allée Herbaudière,
31770 Colomiers,
The International School of Toulouse is a co-ed school in Colomiers near the historic city of Toulouse in south west France. The teaching is geared in English though there are a few students from Spain, France and Korea. The school is noted for its use of IT in teaching and learning, with every student from age nine onwards having the loan of a laptop computer.
International School – Nice
15, avenue Claude Debussy
06200 - Nice
The International School of Nice is an IB accredited, co-educational school. It teaches children from pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 and has been serving the French Riviera since 1976. Through a healthy mix of work, play and learning they provide an excellent educational experience and a range of opportunities for all students from diverse backgrounds.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals have been offering bespoke removals to France for more than 20 years now. We offer Full Container Load (FCL) Part Container Loads (LCL) and Groupage services to all parts of France, from Brittany in the north to Languedoc in the south. For your peace of mind and to assure you of the quality of service we offer, we are members of The British Association of Removers (BAR) and The Road Haulage Association and are also BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered.
With Hamiltons Removals, your belongings are in safe hands. Click here for your free, no obligation removals quote.
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