Burgundy is located in the central eastern corner of France, stretching eastwards between the Loire and the southern vineyards of Beaujolais. An elaborate tapestry of history and architecture, and famed for its wine, the Burgundy region of France is a fascinating area to explore, or to buy property in.
Like in most of France, Burgundy has a rich history, in many ways closely intertwined with Britain. The area is yet to be deluged by tourists, leaving many parts of Burgundy peaceful and untouched. Those looking to buy property here will find a quite, classical lifestyle, with many beautiful landscapes and a strong local interest in art and gourmet cooking.
Burgundy is graced with a continental climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Throughout spring and autumn, the climate is not dissimilar to that of south east England, with an average temperature in the mid-twenties and some scattered showers. In July and August, Burgundy receives an average of 6cm of a rain per month.
The west of Burgundy has no truly local airports, a factor which has helped the area keeps it’s French, untouched feel. You find it more convenient to fly into Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport in the North, and then make your way from there to wherever in Burgundy your property is located, which can be a journey of around two and a half hours. To do this, you may wish to hire a car, or take one of France’s numerous trains into the area. You could also fly into Orly airport, which is slightly further south, making the journey into Burgundy comparatively shorter. You may also be able to fly into Dijon airport, although flights from the UK are slightly rarer than if you choose an airport in Paris.
Property in Burgundy can be very cheap compared to other areas of France. With a little searching, you’ll be able to find some very cheap real estate, particularly in comparison to other areas of France. Much of it requires renovation, but with prices as cheap as they can be, this may still work out cheaper than buying property in other areas. A farmhouse in Nievre that needs renovation might cost as little as £13,000, while a seventeenth century castle in Cote dor could be as cheap as £2,100,000. Apartments and other properties in the relatively few urbanized areas of Burgundy might be a little more expensive – a four bedroom apartment in Avallon might cost £75,000, while a two bedroom apartment in Cote dor might cost £63,000 – but, compared to other parts of France, the property is still far cheaper, and needs less work than a farmhouse renovation might require. An inexpensive home away from home, Burgundy’s quaint French lifestyles and famous wines may be exactly what your retirement needs.