France has long been regarded as the home of modern art so if you're moving to France and have a liking for all things contemporary, be sure to free up a couple of weekends to take in the sights.
Your removals from the UK to France with its world renowned galleries could give you an opportunity to see a fresco by Hazlo, an oil on canvas by Doro T or a bronze from the hands of sculptress Pascale Camy.
Moving house to France, and to Paris in particular, will present you with an array of modern art galleries and museums. This article aims its focus not just on contemporary art in the capital, but also those works that can be seen elsewhere in France. Hamiltons are the experts in the removals of household goods and furniture to France, as well as modern art, fine art and antiques.
UK to Europe House Moves – Click here to find out more about our services or contact us direct to discuss your removals to France.
Excellent Contemporary French Art Galleries and Museums
Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
Avenue du Président Wilson,
75116 Paris.
Where else could we start but the Museum of Modern Art in Paris? This beautiful building houses some of the greatest modern artworks ever created. Their current exhibition “Decorum”, on show until 9th February 2014, features carpets and tapestries from artists such as Francis Bacon and Vidya Gastaldon. The exhibition highlights this unusual art form, displaying its visual and artistic merits as well as its functionality.
Musée d'Orsay
Rue de Lille
75343 Paris
Another must-see for all modern art aficionados is the Musée d'Orsay, which features graphic arts displays, architecture and photographic exhibitions. On show until 2nd January 2014 is an exhibition entitled Masculine / Masculine which takes an interpretive and playful look at all aspects of male nudity in art from 1800 to the present day and includes paintings, sculptures, graphics and photography.
Backside Gallery,
Rue de l'évêché
13002 Marseilles
Despite its rather comical name, Backside Gallery is about as modern as any white space gallery gets. It’s a real experience in hard core, edge of reason art. The gallery has a space for performance art as well as installations , screenings and exhibitions. No matter what the artistic medium, as long as the audience feels the sweat of creative urban energy, the exhibition will roll.
Atelier de Visu
Rue des Trois Rois
13006 Marseille
Dedicated to the art of photography, Atelier de Visu features exhibitions, residencies, screenings and debates. It provides exhibition space for young photographers and renowned photographic artists alike to promote their work, providing them with public visibility and the chance to expose their work to a wider audience.
Musée Saint-Croix,
Rue Jean Jaurès
86000 Poitiers
Contemporary art has found a home in Poitiers. Here, lovers of modern art can see works by Bonnard , Vuillard , Sisley, Marquet , Max Ernst and Mondrian amongst many others. With displays covering the 19th Century, regional history and the Middle Ages, this museum tracks the development of art and the different art forms through the ages.
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art,
Promenade des Arts,
06000 Nice
This remarkable museum boasts more than 1,200 works from over 300 artists, placing emphasis on the 1960s with a display of Art Deco, Warhol's pop art, abstract works by Yves Klein, Kenneth Noland, Jules Olitski and Larry Poons, and the Minimalism of Sol LeWitt, Richard Serra and Ellsworth Kelly.
Musee Calvet
Rue Joseph Vernet
84000 Avignon
Among the collections here are important works from the 16th through to the 20th centuries as well as a section devoted to modern art. Head for the Victor Martin Room on the ground floor, where you'll find an extensive collection of modern art from the 1860s to the 1930s, including some fine examples of 1920s expressionism.
Musee Caree D’Art
Place de la Maison Carrée
30000 Nîmes
This magnificent nine storey glass and steel building is home to more than 400 works of art, dating from the 1960s to the present day. The New Realism, Supports-Surfaces and Figuration movements are all represented here.
About Hamiltons Removals
If you are moving house to France Hamiltons are the experts in removals from the UK to France and removals to Europe. Whether you prefer sole use of a container, or would like a groupage service, contact us direct to receive a competitive quote for your move.
Friday, 28 February 2014
Tuesday, 25 February 2014
Moving House to France: Best Family Orientated Museums to Visit
If you are planning on moving house to France and have children in tow, you will doubtless, have already done some research on the many different and exciting ways in which you can entertain them. In this, the latest of our removals to France blog articles, we would like to share with you some ideas about where to take them during the holidays. One such idea might be to visit one of the many family friendly museums that are dotted all over France.
If you're moving to Languedoc-Roussillon in the south of France, for example, you won’t be too far away from the Dinosaur Museum in Mèze; and those of you moving house to Marseille, might want to pop along to the The Préau des Accoules, a museum designed especially for children.
There are many other museums in France that look at things from a child's perspective and we have listed some of them here; but if you know of any we haven’t covered, by all means tell us about them in the comments section below and we'll try to feature them in a future post on the subject.
Moving house to France Click here to access our website for more information about our services.
Meanwhile, here is our guide to some of the best and most family friendly museums France has to offer.
Grande Galerie de l’Evolution
36 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire,
75005 Paris
One of the most family friendly attractions in Paris, this place is a real education. Not only does it introduce you to all kinds of animal and plant life, it also shows you the impact that we humans have had upon their lives. You'll see life size, animated models of creatures, large and small, and learn about their interaction and interdependence. The museum addresses the heady issues of biodiversity and the environment in a fun, practical way. It invites children and adults alike to observe and learn about the different ecosystems at work in our towns and cities, and in our rivers and tropical forests.
Stade de France
93216 Saint-Denis
If your kids are mad on football or rugby, this is a must-see for them. Guided tours of the stadium take in the presidential lodge, the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and a wonderful museum depicting the stadium's construction and it’s most significant events. The tour lasts about an hour with an extra 30 minutes allocated for you to spend at the museum. Summer tours run every hour between 10:00am and 5:00pm and winter tours operate at 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, and 5:00pm. No tours operate on match days, or the day before.
Dinosaur Museum
Route Départemental 613
34140, Meze
Located on what was once a spawning ground for these monsters, the Meze Dinosaur Museum will capture your children's imagination and keep them entertained for hours. Here, life size models of these incredible creatures can be seen amongst the trees. Some are grazing, whilst others are poised for confrontation. There is a great deal of information about Brachiosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops and all the other pre-historic animals, as well as related ones that are still with us today like crocodiles and turtles. A second and equally informative museum at the same site concerns itself with the birth of mankind.
The Preau des Accoules
29 Montée des Accoules,
13002 Marseille
What this museum does well is take the heavier subjects of art and history and replay them from a child's perspective. Recent installations have seen them display paintings on loan from one of the country's leading museums, and have the children recreate them through paint and crayon. Another exhibition of sculpture gave the children the opportunity to try their hand at this art form. The Preau des Accoules does this type of thing on a regular basis, turning trips to the museum into fun, creative days out, which children from as young as five years old can enjoy.
CAP Sciences
20 Quai de Bacalan,
33300 Bordeaux
The Science Museum in Bordeaux offers workshops for children of all ages, across a wide range of subjects. At CAP they can learn all about the photography process and go on to develop their own photographs. They also offer workshops on other interesting scientific subjects like robotics, chemistry, electricity and astronomy. Other subjects covered are exploration and discovery as well as cookery, in which budding young chefs get to experience working as part of a team in a kitchen. This guided workshop will guarantee they produce something tasty, which is great since they also get to eat it!
Air and Space Museum
180 Esplanade de l'Air et de l'Espace,
93350 Le Bourget
Six miles north of Paris, Le Bourget Airport is home to the fascinating Museum of Air and Space. Eleven exhibition halls display the history of French aviation, from the first flying machines to present day fighter planes, combat helicopters, satellites and rockets. Some famous passenger jets are here too, including Concorde, the Boeing747 and the Dakota. Two not-to-be-missed installations are the Planetarium, a must for all star gazers, and Planet Pilot, a space divided into four sections covering man's first flight, air travel, man's travels into space and living and working in space.
About Hamiltons Removals
Hamiltons Removals offers bespoke European removals. We are members of the British Association of Removers and The Road Haulage Association and we are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered, so if you are moving house to France, why not give us a call? For further information, visit our website www.hamiltonsremovals.co.uk
If you're moving to Languedoc-Roussillon in the south of France, for example, you won’t be too far away from the Dinosaur Museum in Mèze; and those of you moving house to Marseille, might want to pop along to the The Préau des Accoules, a museum designed especially for children.
There are many other museums in France that look at things from a child's perspective and we have listed some of them here; but if you know of any we haven’t covered, by all means tell us about them in the comments section below and we'll try to feature them in a future post on the subject.
Moving house to France Click here to access our website for more information about our services.
Meanwhile, here is our guide to some of the best and most family friendly museums France has to offer.
Grande Galerie de l’Evolution
36 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire,
75005 Paris
One of the most family friendly attractions in Paris, this place is a real education. Not only does it introduce you to all kinds of animal and plant life, it also shows you the impact that we humans have had upon their lives. You'll see life size, animated models of creatures, large and small, and learn about their interaction and interdependence. The museum addresses the heady issues of biodiversity and the environment in a fun, practical way. It invites children and adults alike to observe and learn about the different ecosystems at work in our towns and cities, and in our rivers and tropical forests.
Stade de France
93216 Saint-Denis
If your kids are mad on football or rugby, this is a must-see for them. Guided tours of the stadium take in the presidential lodge, the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and a wonderful museum depicting the stadium's construction and it’s most significant events. The tour lasts about an hour with an extra 30 minutes allocated for you to spend at the museum. Summer tours run every hour between 10:00am and 5:00pm and winter tours operate at 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, and 5:00pm. No tours operate on match days, or the day before.
Dinosaur Museum
Route Départemental 613
34140, Meze
Located on what was once a spawning ground for these monsters, the Meze Dinosaur Museum will capture your children's imagination and keep them entertained for hours. Here, life size models of these incredible creatures can be seen amongst the trees. Some are grazing, whilst others are poised for confrontation. There is a great deal of information about Brachiosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops and all the other pre-historic animals, as well as related ones that are still with us today like crocodiles and turtles. A second and equally informative museum at the same site concerns itself with the birth of mankind.
The Preau des Accoules
29 Montée des Accoules,
13002 Marseille
What this museum does well is take the heavier subjects of art and history and replay them from a child's perspective. Recent installations have seen them display paintings on loan from one of the country's leading museums, and have the children recreate them through paint and crayon. Another exhibition of sculpture gave the children the opportunity to try their hand at this art form. The Preau des Accoules does this type of thing on a regular basis, turning trips to the museum into fun, creative days out, which children from as young as five years old can enjoy.
CAP Sciences
20 Quai de Bacalan,
33300 Bordeaux
The Science Museum in Bordeaux offers workshops for children of all ages, across a wide range of subjects. At CAP they can learn all about the photography process and go on to develop their own photographs. They also offer workshops on other interesting scientific subjects like robotics, chemistry, electricity and astronomy. Other subjects covered are exploration and discovery as well as cookery, in which budding young chefs get to experience working as part of a team in a kitchen. This guided workshop will guarantee they produce something tasty, which is great since they also get to eat it!
Air and Space Museum
180 Esplanade de l'Air et de l'Espace,
93350 Le Bourget
Six miles north of Paris, Le Bourget Airport is home to the fascinating Museum of Air and Space. Eleven exhibition halls display the history of French aviation, from the first flying machines to present day fighter planes, combat helicopters, satellites and rockets. Some famous passenger jets are here too, including Concorde, the Boeing747 and the Dakota. Two not-to-be-missed installations are the Planetarium, a must for all star gazers, and Planet Pilot, a space divided into four sections covering man's first flight, air travel, man's travels into space and living and working in space.
About Hamiltons Removals
Hamiltons Removals offers bespoke European removals. We are members of the British Association of Removers and The Road Haulage Association and we are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered, so if you are moving house to France, why not give us a call? For further information, visit our website www.hamiltonsremovals.co.uk
Tuesday, 14 January 2014
Removals to France: Beach Activities to Take up When You Move
Many people move house to France to enjoy a better quality of life, and a large percentage choose to settle in a seaside location to live either in walking distance, or at the very least, a short drive away from the beach. Fortunately France has just over 2,000 miles of coastline, and whether you are moving to Brittany or Normandy on the North Coast, Poitou-Charentes on the Atlantic Coast, or the French Riviera, bordering the Mediterranean, there are some wonderful beaches to explore.
If you enjoy being out on the water and have already organised your removals to France, you will be looking forward to trying out some of the wonderful sports or leisure activities, or simply relaxing with a book on the beach. Fortunately, there are plenty of water based activities in France and here’s our pick of the best:
Moving House to France - Click here to find out more about removals to France, or contact us for a competitive quote for European removals.
Sailing – If you are moving house to France and love freedom of being out on the water, sailing is a fantastic sport to take up. Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of the French scenery from the lakes or rivers, or simply want to explore the coastline and discover new beaches and coves, there are sail schools all over France. And, if you have your own yacht, you will have a pick of marinas to moor it on. Among them is the glamorous Riviera, or the attractive marina of St Malo in Brittany, which is a great base for exploring the North Coast – and you can even head for lunch on one of the British Islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney or Sark. Another is La Rochelle in Poitou-Charentes, one of the country’s sailing capitals; its vast marina is set to extend to become the largest in Europe.
Jet-Skiing – Jet-skiing, which has been likened to motor-biking on water, is a fun, adrenalin fuelled activity. You can hire one from one of the beaches, or if you like the sport enough, you can invest in your own jet-ski and whizz around the coast or stop off at some of the deserted, hidden beaches that can only be accessed on the water. Some of the best places for jet-skiing in France are the areas popular with tourists, such as Poitou-Charentes, and again, the Cote d’Azur. Jet-skiing will suit those who love the beauty of the coastline and want a thrill ride.
Diving – Diving is a great sport to take up as you will see the marine life at first hand and, if you are an experienced diver, you can get even more adventurous and explore ancient shipwrecks. It is recommended that May to November are the best months to go diving in France and there are a host of opportunities for divers of all levels. While the Lot Valley area offers some great places for cave diving, the Mediterranean offers the chance to see coral reefs, wrecks and caverns. For wrecks dating from the two world wars, the coast of Southern France offers some amazing diving opportunities.
Surfing – Whether you are seven years old or seventy, surfing is a fantastic sport to take up. If you try it and enjoy it, it’s guaranteed to get you hooked, and you’ll soon be investing in your own surfboard, wet suit and wax and checking the local tide tables. There are surf schools aplenty in France and among the best areas to go surfing include the Atlantic Coast from Bordeaux to Biarritz. If you need to brush up on your French, in Biarritz you can take niche courses that combine French lessons with surfing!
Kayaking and Canoeing – You don’t have to head to the coast to go kayaking or canoeing, there are also opportunities to try the sport on some of the country’s rivers or lakes. The Dordogne River, for instance, is an ideal spot for this, and you can even combine it with other adventurous activities such as rock-climbing, hang gliding or mountain biking. If you are a lover of the great outdoors, you can admire the stunning scenery as you cut through the waters in your canoe.
About Hamiltons Removals
Hamiltons Removals are specialists in removals to France and we also offer UK removals, European and worldwide removals. Just click on the link below to find out more information about our services.
Moving House from the UK to France - click here to discover how we can help your move from the UK to France run smoothly, or click here to get a free quotation.
If you enjoy being out on the water and have already organised your removals to France, you will be looking forward to trying out some of the wonderful sports or leisure activities, or simply relaxing with a book on the beach. Fortunately, there are plenty of water based activities in France and here’s our pick of the best:
Moving House to France - Click here to find out more about removals to France, or contact us for a competitive quote for European removals.
Sailing – If you are moving house to France and love freedom of being out on the water, sailing is a fantastic sport to take up. Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of the French scenery from the lakes or rivers, or simply want to explore the coastline and discover new beaches and coves, there are sail schools all over France. And, if you have your own yacht, you will have a pick of marinas to moor it on. Among them is the glamorous Riviera, or the attractive marina of St Malo in Brittany, which is a great base for exploring the North Coast – and you can even head for lunch on one of the British Islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney or Sark. Another is La Rochelle in Poitou-Charentes, one of the country’s sailing capitals; its vast marina is set to extend to become the largest in Europe.
Jet-Skiing – Jet-skiing, which has been likened to motor-biking on water, is a fun, adrenalin fuelled activity. You can hire one from one of the beaches, or if you like the sport enough, you can invest in your own jet-ski and whizz around the coast or stop off at some of the deserted, hidden beaches that can only be accessed on the water. Some of the best places for jet-skiing in France are the areas popular with tourists, such as Poitou-Charentes, and again, the Cote d’Azur. Jet-skiing will suit those who love the beauty of the coastline and want a thrill ride.
Diving – Diving is a great sport to take up as you will see the marine life at first hand and, if you are an experienced diver, you can get even more adventurous and explore ancient shipwrecks. It is recommended that May to November are the best months to go diving in France and there are a host of opportunities for divers of all levels. While the Lot Valley area offers some great places for cave diving, the Mediterranean offers the chance to see coral reefs, wrecks and caverns. For wrecks dating from the two world wars, the coast of Southern France offers some amazing diving opportunities.
Surfing – Whether you are seven years old or seventy, surfing is a fantastic sport to take up. If you try it and enjoy it, it’s guaranteed to get you hooked, and you’ll soon be investing in your own surfboard, wet suit and wax and checking the local tide tables. There are surf schools aplenty in France and among the best areas to go surfing include the Atlantic Coast from Bordeaux to Biarritz. If you need to brush up on your French, in Biarritz you can take niche courses that combine French lessons with surfing!
Kayaking and Canoeing – You don’t have to head to the coast to go kayaking or canoeing, there are also opportunities to try the sport on some of the country’s rivers or lakes. The Dordogne River, for instance, is an ideal spot for this, and you can even combine it with other adventurous activities such as rock-climbing, hang gliding or mountain biking. If you are a lover of the great outdoors, you can admire the stunning scenery as you cut through the waters in your canoe.
About Hamiltons Removals
Hamiltons Removals are specialists in removals to France and we also offer UK removals, European and worldwide removals. Just click on the link below to find out more information about our services.
Moving House from the UK to France - click here to discover how we can help your move from the UK to France run smoothly, or click here to get a free quotation.
Saturday, 16 November 2013
Removals to France: Unusual or Extraordinary Museums in France
Having completed your removals to France it is more than likely that, once you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll want to spread your wings a bit and visit some of the country’s tourist attractions.
As you know France has some very popular attractions: the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and The Louvre, to name a few, but you may well have seen them by now. Your move to France will give you the opportunity to visit some of the country’s more unusual offerings: places that are not necessarily at the top of any tourists’ list, but nevertheless ones that are definitely worth a visit.
We have compiled a list of some of these lesser-known attractions, covering everything from sewers, to playing cards, corkscrews and cheese. Read on to discover our pick of some of the strangest, most extraordinary museums France has to offer.
Hamiltons Removals Click here to find out how we can help with your move or contact us to discuss the type of service you require.
Museums in France with a Difference
Paris Sewer Museum
Opposite 93 Quai d'Orsay
75007 Paris
If engineering is your thing, you’re in for a real (if slightly smelly!) treat here. The museum is actually a working part of the Parisian sewer system. Along its walls are pictures chronicling the changes made to the system as it was adapted to meet the growing needs for waste disposal in the city and the technology for keeping the pipes clean. Top tip: this brief but fascinating tour is best enjoyed whilst breathing through your mouth.
Paris Museum of Playing Cards
Rue Auguste Gervais
Issy
75000 Paris
Whilst the city of Turnhout in Belgium is widely recognised as the home of the playing card in Europe, this interesting diversion in Paris traces the history of their development throughout France. Founded on a collection by Louis Chardonneret in 1930, the number of exhibits grew thanks to Robert Thissen's donation of modern cards in 1986. Most remarkable are the many artistic changes to the face cards and styles of suits over the years.
Museum of Glasses and Lorgnettes
380 rue Saint Honore
75001 Paris
This museum focuses on everything to do with eye-wear and leads you from the 13th Century, right through to today’s fashions. There are more than 3000 examples on display including eyeglasses, monocles, pince-nez and opera glasses. You'll see the glasses worn by The Dalai Lama, Sammy Davis Jr and Elton John among others. The exhibition also covers the development of the telescope and field glasses.
Museum of Ironwork
2, Rue Jacques Villon
76000 Rouen
If you are moving to Rouen, or anywhere nearby for that matter, you must go to the Museum of Ironwork. It's fascinating, and even if the idea of looking at lots of bent metal doesn't appeal, we assure you that once you've stepped inside the magnificent 15th-century Eglise St-Laurent (that houses the collection), your imagination will run riot. You'll find all kinds of ironwork on display, from the most brutal and functional, to the highly delicate and decorative. It beggars belief that one medium and one art form can have so many different uses.
Corkscrew Museum
Domaine de la Citadelle,
Rte de Cavaillon,
84560, Menerbes,
With over 1000 exhibits ranging from the refined to the down right lewdicrous (a deliberate miss-spelling), this collection has to be seen to be believed. As an aside, the collection and the attached vineyard are owned by film producer Yves Rousset-Rouard, the man behind "A Little Romance" starring Diane Lane and Laurence Olivier.
Camembert Cheese Museum
Le bourg
61120 Camembert
A tour of the Camembert Cheese Museum sees you surrounded by ancient milk churns and laurel boxes as you learn of the process by which three pints of milk are turned into a pound of cheese which is then left to mature for two months. Interestingly, the exhibition features an ever-increasing collection of Camembert cheese labels from places such as Chile, Denmark and New Zealand. This is because the name “Camembert” was never AOC protected, unlike the name “Champagne”.
Prune Museum in Agen
Berino-Martinet Farm
47320 Lafitte-sur-Lot
The Prune Museum celebrates 100 years of traditional prune cultivation. There are a number of exhibition rooms featuring some traditional prune drying ovens. In one of the drying rooms you'll see an actual reconstruction of the prune drying process, and the workers wear period dress to bring the whole experience to life. For a more modern take on all things, you can visit one of three projection rooms to watch a 25 minute video which takes you to the heart of the orchards and the production process.
We hope you've enjoyed our little trip around some of the more unusual museums of France. If you come across any that we haven’t included here, please tell us about them in the comments section below, and we will try to include them in future articles on the subject.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals offer high quality removals to Switzerland. Whether you require packing, cleaning and storage or just the transportation of your belongings, we offer a tailor made service to suit.
Whatever your requirements, contact Hamiltons Removals today and let us take care of your European removals.
As you know France has some very popular attractions: the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and The Louvre, to name a few, but you may well have seen them by now. Your move to France will give you the opportunity to visit some of the country’s more unusual offerings: places that are not necessarily at the top of any tourists’ list, but nevertheless ones that are definitely worth a visit.
We have compiled a list of some of these lesser-known attractions, covering everything from sewers, to playing cards, corkscrews and cheese. Read on to discover our pick of some of the strangest, most extraordinary museums France has to offer.
Hamiltons Removals Click here to find out how we can help with your move or contact us to discuss the type of service you require.
Museums in France with a Difference
Paris Sewer Museum
Opposite 93 Quai d'Orsay
75007 Paris
If engineering is your thing, you’re in for a real (if slightly smelly!) treat here. The museum is actually a working part of the Parisian sewer system. Along its walls are pictures chronicling the changes made to the system as it was adapted to meet the growing needs for waste disposal in the city and the technology for keeping the pipes clean. Top tip: this brief but fascinating tour is best enjoyed whilst breathing through your mouth.
Paris Museum of Playing Cards
Rue Auguste Gervais
Issy
75000 Paris
Whilst the city of Turnhout in Belgium is widely recognised as the home of the playing card in Europe, this interesting diversion in Paris traces the history of their development throughout France. Founded on a collection by Louis Chardonneret in 1930, the number of exhibits grew thanks to Robert Thissen's donation of modern cards in 1986. Most remarkable are the many artistic changes to the face cards and styles of suits over the years.
Museum of Glasses and Lorgnettes
380 rue Saint Honore
75001 Paris
This museum focuses on everything to do with eye-wear and leads you from the 13th Century, right through to today’s fashions. There are more than 3000 examples on display including eyeglasses, monocles, pince-nez and opera glasses. You'll see the glasses worn by The Dalai Lama, Sammy Davis Jr and Elton John among others. The exhibition also covers the development of the telescope and field glasses.
Museum of Ironwork
2, Rue Jacques Villon
76000 Rouen
If you are moving to Rouen, or anywhere nearby for that matter, you must go to the Museum of Ironwork. It's fascinating, and even if the idea of looking at lots of bent metal doesn't appeal, we assure you that once you've stepped inside the magnificent 15th-century Eglise St-Laurent (that houses the collection), your imagination will run riot. You'll find all kinds of ironwork on display, from the most brutal and functional, to the highly delicate and decorative. It beggars belief that one medium and one art form can have so many different uses.
Corkscrew Museum
Domaine de la Citadelle,
Rte de Cavaillon,
84560, Menerbes,
With over 1000 exhibits ranging from the refined to the down right lewdicrous (a deliberate miss-spelling), this collection has to be seen to be believed. As an aside, the collection and the attached vineyard are owned by film producer Yves Rousset-Rouard, the man behind "A Little Romance" starring Diane Lane and Laurence Olivier.
Camembert Cheese Museum
Le bourg
61120 Camembert
A tour of the Camembert Cheese Museum sees you surrounded by ancient milk churns and laurel boxes as you learn of the process by which three pints of milk are turned into a pound of cheese which is then left to mature for two months. Interestingly, the exhibition features an ever-increasing collection of Camembert cheese labels from places such as Chile, Denmark and New Zealand. This is because the name “Camembert” was never AOC protected, unlike the name “Champagne”.
Prune Museum in Agen
Berino-Martinet Farm
47320 Lafitte-sur-Lot
The Prune Museum celebrates 100 years of traditional prune cultivation. There are a number of exhibition rooms featuring some traditional prune drying ovens. In one of the drying rooms you'll see an actual reconstruction of the prune drying process, and the workers wear period dress to bring the whole experience to life. For a more modern take on all things, you can visit one of three projection rooms to watch a 25 minute video which takes you to the heart of the orchards and the production process.
We hope you've enjoyed our little trip around some of the more unusual museums of France. If you come across any that we haven’t included here, please tell us about them in the comments section below, and we will try to include them in future articles on the subject.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals offer high quality removals to Switzerland. Whether you require packing, cleaning and storage or just the transportation of your belongings, we offer a tailor made service to suit.
Whatever your requirements, contact Hamiltons Removals today and let us take care of your European removals.
Wednesday, 13 November 2013
Removals to France: A Brief Regional Guide to the Weather in France
One of the most attractive things about moving to France is the prospect of all that better weather. If your move to France is taking you to the south of the country, you’ll regularly experience summer temperatures in the late 70’s to early 80’s °F. And whilst that’s not up in the hundreds, it is still comfortably warm.
It’s not just the south of France that offers such good weather either. If you are moving to Poitou Charentes, Burgundy or Ile de France, you can look forward to fine temperatures. In fact, it’s fair to say that wherever your removals to France takes you, your summers will be a delight as August daytime temperatures rarely fall to below 70°F. If you prefer a cooler climate, as some do, you might want to consider moving to Brittany in northern France or to the French Alps in the east. The climate in northern France is quite similar to that of the southern English counties of Cornwall, Sussex and Kent.
At Hamiltons Removals, we have been taking care of our clients’ removals to France for over 20 years. Depending on the service you require, our removals operatives will pack, load and then unpack your items on arrival. Larger items, which may need to be dismantled for transportation - like wardrobes, beds and sofas - will be re-assembled with the utmost care; all this is done with the politeness and professionalism upon which we base our reputation.
Here at Hamiltons Removals we like to see our customers comfortably settled in their new home, so we have compiled a brief rundown of the weather you can expect in some of the most popular areas in France. Read on to discover some of the best locations in France to get a great tan, and those parts of the country where the climate is more temperate than Mediterranean.
Removals to France – Click here for a free detailed quote of your move or contact us to discuss your individual requirements.
The Weather in France
Paris
If you are moving to Paris, in the Ile de France region, you’ll find the weather somewhat comparable to London. Paris is an area known for its low rainfall, but every now and then she'll surprise you with a brief but quite heavy downpour, almost regardless of the time of year. That said, Parisian summers are generally pleasant, rating somewhere between mild and warm. Like London, Paris is also prone to the occasional heat wave, turning trips to the banks of La Seine into mini summer holidays. The similarity to London doesn't end there; winters in Paris are cold with temperatures hovering at or near freezing.
Nord Pas-de-Calais
Nord-Pas-de-Calais, in the north of France, is cool for most of the year but it does get some very pleasant weather in summer. The really nice thing about moving to the Nord-Pas-de-Calais is that there are hardly ever any real extremes of temperature. The summers are mild to quite hot, and whilst the winters may freeze over sometimes, this is quite rare. The climate here can be likened to that in Kent and the south of England, as well as to that in the south west of France, although it can get quite wet down there at certain times of the year.
Franche-Comte
Those of you moving to Franche-Comte in eastern France are in for a real treat weather-wise. You'll need to kit your wardrobes out with everything from summer dresses/shorts and linen suits to woolly hats, thick jumpers, raincoats and wellies. Franche-Comté's weather is truly continental. Your summers will be hot and your winters cold - and it'll rain too, quite often when you least expect it! Changeable is the best way to describe the weather here, or perhaps unpredictable; a real home from home.
Poitou Charentes
Anyone moving to Poitou-Charentes in the south west of France can look forward to one of the most pleasant climates in the country. The winters are mild and the summers are hot but not in any way humid. Theirs is a dry, pleasant heat, which is easy to work in and even more of a joy not to. The area is famed for its production of wine and it’s these non-extremes of temperature, combined with regular but not excessive rainfall, that contribute so well to the verdant and fertile landscape.
Rhone Alps
If you and your family are moving to the Rhone-Alps region in south eastern France, you can expect changeable weather which leans more towards wet than dry. Summers here are hot and can be quite humid, and winter temperatures are kept low by the neighbouring Alpine mountains. The mountains, of course, are a huge draw to the area as they bring with them the prospect of adrenaline fuelled winter sports. We’ll pack your skis with the greatest of care.
Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
If not for the weather, why else would you be moving to Cote d'Azur? And who can blame you? As we write this article (in August) temperatures are being recorded all over France at between 65 and 72 °F. However, in the Côte d'Azur, on the French Riviera, it is 80°F. The region is known for its very pleasant year round climate and particularly for its beautifully sunny and dry summers. Its Mediterranean climate has tempted many a British visitor to up sticks and move here over the years and the attraction shows no sign of dwindling. They say that warm weather and sunshine are good for us, and with around 2,830 hours of sunshine a year the Cote d'Azur has that "feel good factor".
Corsica
Corsica too has a Mediterranean climate. If you are moving to Corsica you can expect summer temperatures of anything between 75 and 80°F in July and August and even in the grip of winter, it never gets much below 55°F. By mid-July and lasting right through to October, going for a dip in the sea feels like stepping into to a lovely warm bath, and even in December you'll be able to get away with shorts and a T-shirt.
Lorraine
If you are moving to Lorraine in northeastern France, you are not going there for the sun and the warmth. Located near to the border with Luxembourg, you may well be looking forward to skiing in the Vosges Mountains or to trekking around its rivers, lakes, and parks; but our guess is you won’t be going there for a tan. Summers are humid and the warmest month is August. You can expect temperatures in the late 70’s °F, but you won’t find it the type of heat you’ll find further south; and in January the barometer might register 37°F if you’re lucky.
Midi Pyrenees
If you’re a sun worshipper, we would strongly recommend moving to the Midi-Pyrenees. It is one of the sunniest regions in France. July and August are the best months of the year - with strong sun and intense heat; but the beauty of this region is that the high temperatures of the day are countered by cooler evenings and nights, making for a more comfortable nights' sleep. You know the Indian summers we in Britain hope for the following year after a disappointing July and August? Well, in the Midi Pyrenees you can look forward to this, most of the time.
Brittany
The weather in Brittany has often been compared to that in Cornwall and other south western parts of the UK, and there are similarities of course. The two areas are not that far from one another after all. If you are moving to Brittany you can, however, expect it to be at least a few degrees warmer. You can look forward to enjoying the same lush countryside, similarly beautiful walks and scenery, but it’s just a few degrees warmer with a different language, a different culture and a more relaxed pace of life – perfect.
Upper Normandy
Upper Normandy in the North-West of France in general experiences mild weather throughout the year. This is because its western side fronts on to the Atlantic Ocean. There are rarely any extremes of temperature here, though it can rain quite a bit. This again is not a region favoured by the sun worshipper; if you are moving to Upper Normandy, be prepared for mild autumns, cool winters, warm springs and pleasantly hot (but not over-powering) summers.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals are members of The British Association of Removers (BAR), The Road Haulage Association (RHA) and we are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered. We are big enough to have all the necessary resources at our fingertips and yet small enough to really care about what our customers think. We have a growing list of testimonials from people we have helped move to all four corners of the world and we look forward to being able to add your name to that list.
High Quality Removals Click here for a free quotation for domestic or worldwide removals.
It’s not just the south of France that offers such good weather either. If you are moving to Poitou Charentes, Burgundy or Ile de France, you can look forward to fine temperatures. In fact, it’s fair to say that wherever your removals to France takes you, your summers will be a delight as August daytime temperatures rarely fall to below 70°F. If you prefer a cooler climate, as some do, you might want to consider moving to Brittany in northern France or to the French Alps in the east. The climate in northern France is quite similar to that of the southern English counties of Cornwall, Sussex and Kent.
At Hamiltons Removals, we have been taking care of our clients’ removals to France for over 20 years. Depending on the service you require, our removals operatives will pack, load and then unpack your items on arrival. Larger items, which may need to be dismantled for transportation - like wardrobes, beds and sofas - will be re-assembled with the utmost care; all this is done with the politeness and professionalism upon which we base our reputation.
Here at Hamiltons Removals we like to see our customers comfortably settled in their new home, so we have compiled a brief rundown of the weather you can expect in some of the most popular areas in France. Read on to discover some of the best locations in France to get a great tan, and those parts of the country where the climate is more temperate than Mediterranean.
Removals to France – Click here for a free detailed quote of your move or contact us to discuss your individual requirements.
The Weather in France
Paris
If you are moving to Paris, in the Ile de France region, you’ll find the weather somewhat comparable to London. Paris is an area known for its low rainfall, but every now and then she'll surprise you with a brief but quite heavy downpour, almost regardless of the time of year. That said, Parisian summers are generally pleasant, rating somewhere between mild and warm. Like London, Paris is also prone to the occasional heat wave, turning trips to the banks of La Seine into mini summer holidays. The similarity to London doesn't end there; winters in Paris are cold with temperatures hovering at or near freezing.
Nord Pas-de-Calais
Nord-Pas-de-Calais, in the north of France, is cool for most of the year but it does get some very pleasant weather in summer. The really nice thing about moving to the Nord-Pas-de-Calais is that there are hardly ever any real extremes of temperature. The summers are mild to quite hot, and whilst the winters may freeze over sometimes, this is quite rare. The climate here can be likened to that in Kent and the south of England, as well as to that in the south west of France, although it can get quite wet down there at certain times of the year.
Franche-Comte
Those of you moving to Franche-Comte in eastern France are in for a real treat weather-wise. You'll need to kit your wardrobes out with everything from summer dresses/shorts and linen suits to woolly hats, thick jumpers, raincoats and wellies. Franche-Comté's weather is truly continental. Your summers will be hot and your winters cold - and it'll rain too, quite often when you least expect it! Changeable is the best way to describe the weather here, or perhaps unpredictable; a real home from home.
Poitou Charentes
Anyone moving to Poitou-Charentes in the south west of France can look forward to one of the most pleasant climates in the country. The winters are mild and the summers are hot but not in any way humid. Theirs is a dry, pleasant heat, which is easy to work in and even more of a joy not to. The area is famed for its production of wine and it’s these non-extremes of temperature, combined with regular but not excessive rainfall, that contribute so well to the verdant and fertile landscape.
Rhone Alps
If you and your family are moving to the Rhone-Alps region in south eastern France, you can expect changeable weather which leans more towards wet than dry. Summers here are hot and can be quite humid, and winter temperatures are kept low by the neighbouring Alpine mountains. The mountains, of course, are a huge draw to the area as they bring with them the prospect of adrenaline fuelled winter sports. We’ll pack your skis with the greatest of care.
Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
If not for the weather, why else would you be moving to Cote d'Azur? And who can blame you? As we write this article (in August) temperatures are being recorded all over France at between 65 and 72 °F. However, in the Côte d'Azur, on the French Riviera, it is 80°F. The region is known for its very pleasant year round climate and particularly for its beautifully sunny and dry summers. Its Mediterranean climate has tempted many a British visitor to up sticks and move here over the years and the attraction shows no sign of dwindling. They say that warm weather and sunshine are good for us, and with around 2,830 hours of sunshine a year the Cote d'Azur has that "feel good factor".
Corsica
Corsica too has a Mediterranean climate. If you are moving to Corsica you can expect summer temperatures of anything between 75 and 80°F in July and August and even in the grip of winter, it never gets much below 55°F. By mid-July and lasting right through to October, going for a dip in the sea feels like stepping into to a lovely warm bath, and even in December you'll be able to get away with shorts and a T-shirt.
Lorraine
If you are moving to Lorraine in northeastern France, you are not going there for the sun and the warmth. Located near to the border with Luxembourg, you may well be looking forward to skiing in the Vosges Mountains or to trekking around its rivers, lakes, and parks; but our guess is you won’t be going there for a tan. Summers are humid and the warmest month is August. You can expect temperatures in the late 70’s °F, but you won’t find it the type of heat you’ll find further south; and in January the barometer might register 37°F if you’re lucky.
Midi Pyrenees
If you’re a sun worshipper, we would strongly recommend moving to the Midi-Pyrenees. It is one of the sunniest regions in France. July and August are the best months of the year - with strong sun and intense heat; but the beauty of this region is that the high temperatures of the day are countered by cooler evenings and nights, making for a more comfortable nights' sleep. You know the Indian summers we in Britain hope for the following year after a disappointing July and August? Well, in the Midi Pyrenees you can look forward to this, most of the time.
Brittany
The weather in Brittany has often been compared to that in Cornwall and other south western parts of the UK, and there are similarities of course. The two areas are not that far from one another after all. If you are moving to Brittany you can, however, expect it to be at least a few degrees warmer. You can look forward to enjoying the same lush countryside, similarly beautiful walks and scenery, but it’s just a few degrees warmer with a different language, a different culture and a more relaxed pace of life – perfect.
Upper Normandy
Upper Normandy in the North-West of France in general experiences mild weather throughout the year. This is because its western side fronts on to the Atlantic Ocean. There are rarely any extremes of temperature here, though it can rain quite a bit. This again is not a region favoured by the sun worshipper; if you are moving to Upper Normandy, be prepared for mild autumns, cool winters, warm springs and pleasantly hot (but not over-powering) summers.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons Removals are members of The British Association of Removers (BAR), The Road Haulage Association (RHA) and we are BS EN ISO 9001:2000 registered. We are big enough to have all the necessary resources at our fingertips and yet small enough to really care about what our customers think. We have a growing list of testimonials from people we have helped move to all four corners of the world and we look forward to being able to add your name to that list.
High Quality Removals Click here for a free quotation for domestic or worldwide removals.
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Removals to France – Nature Reserves
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.
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.
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.
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