Auvergne

General
The Aluvergne region of France is located centrally and amongst other things is famous for its volcanic rocks, water, and blue cheese.

Towns and Cities
Main towns are Moulins, Montlucon, & Vichy (Allier), Clermont-Ferrnad (Puy-de-Dome), Aurillac (Cantal), Le-Puy-en-Velay (Haute Loire)

Access
The area is very well served by motorways and rail. It is 3 hours from Paris by road and 2 hours from Lyon. It is not the best location in France for air travel to the UK however.

Places of Interest
Moulin, for its bells. Montlucon for its chateau, museum, and art, and Vichy for its water, facilities, and parks. Also the national parks (Volcans d'Auvergne, and Livradois-Forz). There are nearly 50 chateux to visit.


Things to do
Numerous events throughout the year at places such as Vichy including horse racing, concerts, and nautic events. Elsewhere, as in many parts of France there are lots of good walks to explore in the countryside.

Property
Auvergne is not the most sought after region of France, but nor is it the least sought after! Pricewise is isn't the cheapest either. If you are looking for a house here then come by all means but also check out other regions too.

Property Investment Value
If you intend buying a property as an investment then then Auvergne is perhaps not the best pick of France since the air links are not the best and tourism isn't as popular as it is in other regions like the Alps. However, if you like the area and intend to move permanently then investment value shouldn't be a priority

Cuisine
As with other areas of France the Auvergne is famous for its own cuisine. Local specialities include Auvergne ham & saussages, cheese, and lentils.


To Conclude
Auvergne is handy for access to other parts of France, so geographically it is in a good location if you intend living in France. However if you wish to travel frequently to the UK it may be better choosing another area. On the plus side there are things to do and see, and it certainly isn't the most expensive part of France.