France: Lorraine

Overview

Lorraine (population 2.31 million), or Lorraine-Vosges as it’s also called, is situated in the north-eastern corner of France bordering Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg, and contains the departments of Meuse (55), Meurthe-et-Moselle (54), Moselle (57) and Vosges (88).

Like Alsace, Lorraine has been fought over for centuries by France and Germany, between whom it has frequently swapped ownership (the region retains a strong Germanic influence). Although mainly an industrial area, Lorraine is largely unspoiled and is popular with nature lovers and hikers. It’s noted for its meandering rivers, rolling hills, wooded valleys, and delightful medieval towns and villages.

Lorraine is famous for its Moselle wines and quiche, but regional cuisine also includes mouthwatering tarts, clafoutis, soufflés and gratins, and the local beer is highly regarded. Glass and crystal making are ancient traditions. Lorraine’s main towns include Nancy (54), the regional capital, and Metz, and there’s a wealth of picturesque villages, including Bussang, Ferrette, Le Hohwald, Saint-Amerin and Schirmeck, plus resort towns such as Masevaux and Plimbières-les-Bains. Lorraine has few foreign residents and is largely ignored by tourists and second homebuyers despite the relatively low cost of living and reasonable property prices. The region has good road access via the A4 and A31 motorways.

© Survival Books Limited 2005

“Buying a Home in France 2006” 6th Edition, David Hampshire.

Reproduced with the permission of Survival Books Limited.

Further information on this topic can be found in “Buying a Home in France 2006” 6th edition, by David Hampshire.

For extensive, annually updated information about buying a property in France, you can purchase this book at www.survivalbooks.net