One of the most important conversations I have with guests isn’t about property at all.
It usually starts with something like:
“We love it here… but we’re not sure if we’d really manage living here full-time.”
And I think that’s a very healthy thing to question.
Living in the Charente is wonderful — but it’s not the same as being on holiday. Experiencing everyday life here is essential before you decide to relocate, and it’s one of the reasons I always encourage guests to slow down and really observe how things feel.
This article isn’t here to persuade you either way. It’s here to help you decide whether rural French life genuinely suits you.
The Pace of Life Is Slower — Properly Slower
One of the first things people notice is the pace.
Shops close for lunch.
Appointments are rarely rushed.
People take time to talk.
At first, this can feel frustrating if you’re used to everything being instant. But many guests soon realise that this slower pace is exactly what they’ve been craving.
That said, it does require a mindset shift. If you like things done immediately, or find waiting stressful, it’s something to consider carefully.
Everyday Practicalities: Not Glamorous, But Important
Rural life means planning a little more.
- You don’t pop out for a forgotten ingredient at 10pm
- Some villages have limited opening hours
- Online deliveries aren’t as quick or reliable
On the positive side:
- Local shops know their customers
- Markets provide fresh, seasonal produce
- You shop less, but better
Guests often tell me they enjoy the simplicity once they settle into it — but it’s not something everyone enjoys long-term.
Community Matters More Than Convenience
One of the biggest differences between holidaying here and living here is community.
In rural France, people tend to know each other. Bakers remember your order. Market sellers recognise you. Neighbours look out for one another.
Many guests are surprised by how welcome they feel — especially once they make an effort to engage, even with limited French. A smile, a greeting, and a willingness to try go a long way.
If you prefer anonymity and bustle, rural life may feel isolating. But if you value connection, it can be deeply rewarding.
The Language Question (Everyone Worries About This)
Almost every guest asks me how long it took me to learn French.
The honest answer? It takes time — and confidence grows gradually.
You don’t need to be fluent to live here, but you do need:
- A willingness to learn
- Patience with yourself
- A sense of humour when things go wrong
Many people start with basic phrases, use translation apps, attend local classes, and improve naturally through daily life. Guests who stay longer often gain confidence much faster than they expect.
Winter Reality vs Summer Dream
Summer in the Charente is beautiful — but it’s not the whole story.
Living here year-round means:
- Shorter days in winter
- Occasional damp weather
- Quiet villages outside the tourist season
But it also means:
- Clear, crisp mornings
- Cosy evenings at home
- A more authentic sense of local life
- Less noise, less traffic, and fewer crowds
I always say: if you enjoy the Charente in winter, you’re likely to love it all year round.
Who Tends to Thrive Here?
From what I’ve seen, people who thrive in rural Charente life usually:
- Enjoy a slower pace
- Are adaptable and patient
- Value nature and space
- Like community and routine
- Are comfortable without constant entertainment
Those who struggle often expect France to feel like an extended holiday — and real life, anywhere, always has its ordinary moments.
Why Staying Before Deciding Is So Important
This is why I gently encourage guests to stay for more than just a week if they’re considering relocation.
Living here for a few weeks or months allows you to:
- Experience everyday routines
- Notice what energises you — and what doesn’t
- See how you cope without novelty
- Make a calm, informed decision
Some guests confirm it’s exactly what they want. Others realise they prefer to visit rather than live here. Both outcomes are positive.
My Honest Advice
If you’re wondering whether rural French life is really for you, don’t rush to answer that question from a distance.
Come and live it for a while. Shop locally. Visit the market. Stay in when it rains. Go for walks. Cook at home. Talk to people.
That’s when the real answer appears.
👉 If you’d like to experience everyday life in the Charente — not just the holiday version — I’d be very happy to help you plan a stay.
Feel free to get in touch with me at La Grue Gites for an informal chat.