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MonsieurFarfelu · Post by **MonsieurFarfelu** » Mon 16 Dec 2013 15:37

After just having had a brilliant holiday in October in St Cyprien - first visit to the area - have been avidly reading everything on this site. Have lived in Brittany for seven years and visited Carcassone and Corbieres many times but always flown through this area - usually on way to Spain for a bit of cheap shopping therapy. We had been thinking of moving around Rennes les Bain but after visiting this autumn we shocked by the total run down look of the place and decisded to search elsewhere.

Although St Cypiren is brilliant with all the cycle paths parks and beaches not sure we could live there but great to have on doorstep. Then we discovered Castelnou and its surrounding commune and apart from the carriere were totally entranced. This will now be the focus of our search and we will return in the Spring to search for a little piece of land to call our own. Has the great benefit of being close to the Border as well. Will keep reading this site for info.

We are currently selling our second home/business in Brittany where along with daughter have run a coffee shop for last six years. We live in an old boulangerie with ancient flour mill and private island which would be a wrench to leave but I have a funny feeling that the lure of better weather, Figueres market and the beach at Roses may win out.

Look forward to future discussions.

Regards Mike

Post by **Kate** » Mon 16 Dec 2013 16:59

Welcome Mike....and yes, while Brittany is a beautiful region with charm and character, the weather can occasionally (?) let it down.

Excitement ahead for you in this little corner of France...scenery, weather, many regular open air events continuing on through December, as we still have blue skies and sunshine (tho chilly in the shade!). Great choice.

Santiago · Post by **Santiago** » Mon 16 Dec 2013 20:15

Welcome Mike. I'm not convinced that Castelnou is a great place to live. It's more of a model tourist village. However, it could really do with a good café. It used to have one, run by Brits, which sold hand-made chocolates. But that was years ago.

Thuir, Llupia and Saint Colombe de la Commanderie are all more habitable places.

MonsieurFarfelu · Post by **MonsieurFarfelu** » Mon 16 Dec 2013 20:58

Thanks for your comments about Castelnou. I agree entirely with what you have said. We are looking in the commune more in the direction of Thuir but still want peace and quiet of the countryside. No chance of another cafe though!!! Have done with this and letting my daughter carry on wherever she want to. Its our time to have some fun.

Look forward to any further comments as very useful for next visit

Stuart · Post by **Stuart** » Fri 24 Jan 2014 23:24

hi Monsieur "Farfelu" (Very funny name )

We don't have more information than you already have, we visited Castelnou
last december, and enjoyed this little place, it must be very busy during summer.
Thuir seems to be very lively, as Ille sur têt, we are also looking for a house around those places.
Anyway, welcome, and good luck.

Owens88 · Post by **Owens88** » Sat 25 Jan 2014 01:40

Hi Mike

Have a look at vernet les Bains. One of those places that has life even in Winter.

John

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Another new member!

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