Boismé

 

Boismé has a population of just over 1000, though you would never know it. 

The tiny French village of Boisme is delightful to stroll through, with quaint little alleyways to explore. On the east side of the village you will find a large lake, where many locals fish; it is a lovely spot for an al fresco lunch with the family, with designated picnic areas and a play park for the children to run off steam. 

Then drop in on the village bar, the meeting place for all the locals who will give you a warm welcome; you can sit at a pavement table, sipping a chilled wine or beer and watch village life in a peaceful setting, while the children enjoy an ice cream. 

Pop in to the bakers, owned by the Mayor, who will serve you your croissants or baguettes; it is also the village shop, and sells fruit, vegetables and cheeses etc, all locally produced. 

Should your visit coincide with the local football calendar, you will be able to see a match in the village Stade. 

For visitors interested in churches, Boisme has a beautiful ancient church where mass is celebrated on alternate Sundays. 

The  roads surrounding the village are so tranquil, cycling is heaven and you can enjoy the countryside in peace and quiet, ambling along at your own pace.  

L’Espoir is situated just outside the village, where you will find eight houses owned by French people for generations. 

Most of the inhabitants are, or were farmers, growing crops or raising cattle or sheep. 

Our house is situated at the end of the hamlet, facing south with uninterrupted views of the French countryside and not another house to see for miles. 

There are children of school age that may shyly come up and ask your children to play with them. It’s amazing how the language is not a barrier for children, and they will happily play together in the traffic free hamlet. It has been known for them to come back with fresh eggs from one of the farmers. 

You will meet the neighbours if you go out to the baker's or the butcher's van that come twice weekly in the mornings. Quite an experience to watch them chatter away about events whilst queuing for their purchases. The butcher sells locally produced beef, chicken, pork etc and it tastes wonderful: definitely recommend for your next barbeque. 

You will probably get an invite for aperitifs from a neighbour, which will give you an insight into French family life.  It is quite an enjoyable experience and something to reminisce about when you return home.