14 Ways to Enjoy Summer Like a Local in France

1.Les Grandes Vacances Embrace the spirit of the Grandes Vacances and take holidays in July or August. Give in to the fact that most cities slow down as everyone goes on holiday. It is all part of that important work-life balance in France that some other countries seem to be losing.

2. Pétanque Every town and village has a Pétanque pitch. Go people-watching, grab your boules and pastis and even have a go!

3. Marche Gourmande If you get chance to register for one of theses, do it. It is a bit like a 1960’s Safari meal, only even more convivial! It is a walk which is usually approximately 10km (not usually more as it is family-friendly) punctuated by apéros, starters, main course etc at different locations along the route.

4. Marché Nocturne A night market with a difference. If you can, visit a producer’s night market. Remember your knives, forks and glasses. Choose and eat your meal alongside the locals. Usually a great atmosphere.

5. Les Randos Evening community walks which are either free or in aid of a charity.

6. The art of the barbecue Of course this is about the very best, seasonal, simple products. Begin with a simple apéritif – cherry tomatoes picked from the vine, Charentais melon cubes wrapped in jambon sec. Think fresh langoustines drizzled in garlic butter, a huge aged high quality côte de boeuf, freshly picked courgettes diced, drizzled in oil and cooked in chopped garlic…

 7. Aperitifs Here in the beautiful Charente, there is nothing better than a VSOP Cognac Schweppes or an ice-cold Pineau des Charentes. Nibbles are simple in these hot summers: small crackers with Grillon Charentais, fromage de chevre, crudités, melon Charentais and often a few crisps suffice.

8. Picnics French picnics are a serious business. Begin with your equipment – a large cool box, picnic tables, chairs (depending on your location) and tablecloth, plus the obligatoire “Opinel” knife. Fresh baguette is essential. Add charcuterie, cheese, local tomatoes and seasonal fruits, plus good wine and beers!

9. Rosé wine Provence rosé is the unofficial drink of summer. It’s light, refreshing, and perfectly suited to warm weather and outdoor meals. Personally, I prefer an IGP Charentais Rosé.

10. Café terraces Taking some time out at cafés to people-watch is one of my favourite summer activities. Black coffee in the mornings or a diablo menthe to cool down during the day are my favourites.

11. Brocantes A local flea market, antiques sale, or car boot sale is often fun for a mooch and to grab a bargain – especially if you are looking for French country style.

12. Les Fêtes I love to take part in the many local festivals. In Rouillac, we have the Gallo-Roman Festival with re-enactments, cuisine and games typical of the period.

13. La Plage Go to the coast. Relax, eat seafood, ice-cream and swim in the sea pools.

14. River dips/plan d’eau France is set up for outdoor living. Visit a plan d’eau (lake or outdoor swimming area) to try stand-up paddle or canoeing, swim under the surveillance of lifeguards and eat at the snack bars or restaurants.

Whatever you do this summer, take time to live like the French and savour those special, simple moments in life.

Bonnes vacances!