Picture this: you’re lounging on a sun-dappled terrace, sipping wine while gazing at rolling hills and charming stone villages. Sounds dreamy, right? For decades, the Dordogne has been the go-to place for Brits looking to live this exact scene. But what if we told you there’s another region that could offer just as much—maybe even more—without stealing the Dordogne’s thunder?
Enter Occitanie (once called Languedoc), the Dordogne’s slightly quieter, sun-soaked neighbor to the south. Let’s dive into the similarities, the differences, and why, if you’re considering a French escape, Occitanie might be the one you hadn’t thought of yet—but totally should.
The Dordogne: The British Bestie
The Dordogne has been a British darling for ages. Why? It ticks all the boxes:
- Picture-perfect villages like Sarlat and Beynac, where time seems to have politely stopped.
- History galore, from prehistoric Lascaux caves to storybook châteaux.
- Food heaven, with its duck confit, foie gras, and truffles that make every meal feel Michelin-starred.
- Community vibes, thanks to the many Brits who’ve already made it their home. English-speaking neighbors? Check. Familiar faces at the boulangerie? Double check.
For those dreaming of a quintessential French lifestyle with just enough comfort and familiarity, the Dordogne is like slipping into a perfectly worn-in sweater. But as lovely as it is, have you ever wondered if there’s more to the story?
Occitanie: The Cool Cousin You Should Meet
Let’s talk about Occitanie. Imagine the same cozy French countryside charm, but with its own unique twist. It’s like discovering your favorite dish has a new flavor you never knew you’d love.
What’s the Same?
- Adorable Villages: Just like the Dordogne’s Beynac or Domme, Occitanie has beauties like Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert and Minerve. They’re every bit as photo-worthy, just without the long line of tourists behind you.
- Rich History: From Carcassonne’s fairytale-like walls to ancient Roman aqueducts, you won’t run out of places to “ooh” and “ahh” over.
- Amazing Food and Wine: You’ve got cassoulet to warm your soul and wine from Minervois or Corbières to keep your glass (and spirits) full.
What’s Different?
- The Climate: Think Mediterranean sunshine—warmer winters, milder breezes, and even a few beaches if you’re feeling fancy. The Dordogne may have rivers, but Occitanie gives you that salty sea air.
- The Vibe: Fewer tourists and expats mean you’re more likely to practice your “Bonjour!” with locals at the market. It’s French living with a little extra authenticity.
- The Price Tag: Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a bargain? Property in Occitanie is often more affordable, meaning you might snag a dream home and still have euros left for all that cheese and wine.
Why the Dordogne Stole the Show
There’s no denying the Dordogne has earned its spotlight. It’s closer to the UK than most parts of France, and its enchanting villages, rolling landscapes, and established expat community made it a natural choice for Brits craving rural charm.
For years, it was the place everyone talked about, read about, and dreamed about. And for good reason! But sometimes, when everyone’s flocking to the same spot, it’s worth looking just a little further afield. Enter Occitanie.
Have You Thought About Occitanie?
Here’s the fun part: you don’t have to choose one region over the other. But if you’re planning your French adventure and haven’t put Occitanie on the list, now’s the time to pencil it in. Here’s why:
- More Bang for Your Buck: Imagine getting a gorgeous village house for less than you’d expect in the Dordogne. Tempting, right?
- Something for Everyone: Love castles? Check. Craving the sea? Double check. Want mountains? Triple check. Occitanie offers it all without feeling overrun.
- A Hidden Gem (Without Saying ‘Gem’): Occitanie feels like a secret you’ve just been let in on—special, welcoming, and just waiting for you to explore.
Two Regions, One Big Dream
So, which should you choose: Dordogne or Occitanie? The truth is, you can’t go wrong with either. They’re both brimming with charm, history, and that undeniable French magic.
If you love the idea of joining an established expat community where you can live out your French countryside dream, the Dordogne will welcome you with open arms (and a glass of wine). But if you’re looking for something a little sunnier, a little less crowded, and maybe even a little more budget-friendly, Occitanie is waving from just a bit further south.
Whichever you choose, one thing’s for sure: your French adventure awaits. So, why not raise a glass (Bergerac or Minervois—your choice!) to discovering the joys of both? Santé!
