Dinard, located opposite St Malo in Brittany, is an exquisite destination in northern France that has captured the attention of many. With its tree-lined avenues and grand villas dating back to the 1880s, Dinard remains virtually untouched since the days when Marcel Proust drew inspiration from its beauty for his iconic novel, “In Search of Lost Time.” This idyllic resort, known for its Belle Époque architecture, serves as an open-air museum and attracts Parisians in droves every summer. For city dwellers like Blandine de Navacelle, a 35-year-old creative director based in London and Paris, Normandy has always held a special allure. De Navacelle is in the process of taking over her family’s château in Flottemanville, Normandy, a property her great-grandparents purchased a century ago, and where she spent her childhood. She notes that although driving to Normandy from Paris on a Friday evening can be challenging, the rise in remote work policies has allowed people like her to spend more time in their second homes.
In the wake of the post-lockdown period in 2021, one in 10 Parisians temporarily left the capital to seek refuge in the surrounding regions, according to data analyzed by SFR Geostatistics. As a result, apartment prices in Paris fell by 1.2% in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the previous year, while prices in Caen and Rouen, the capitals of Normandy’s Calvados department, increased by 7.5% and 8.2% respectively, according to Notaires de France. However, de Navacelle believes that the trend of Parisians seeking second homes in Normandy has always existed among those with “old money.” She praises Normandy for its breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, impressive architecture, and stunning beaches. Additionally, Normandy offers a rich cultural experience with numerous museums and a history of attracting artists to the region.
Over the past decade or two, the desire for a quieter life has enticed many British buyers to relocate to the “Grand Ouest,” encompassing Normandy, Brittany, and Pays de la Loire. This region’s picturesque fields, charming stone houses, and expansive sandy beaches resemble a less populated version of rural England. Fiona and Alan Elliott, for example, recently made the move from Buckinghamshire to the Normandy village of Champ-du-Boult. Fiona, 47, earns income from rental properties in the UK, while Alan, 57, works remotely for an English company. They have embraced the vibrant local community, as their farmhouse is conveniently located opposite the village bar. Furthermore, thanks to the flexibility provided by her Maltese passport, Fiona was able to relocate after Brexit, and Alan is in the process of applying for his EU citizenship. The couple also found it beneficial to obtain French pet passports for their dogs, reducing the hassle and expense of traveling with their furry companions.
However, not all British homeowners in rural France have found their idyllic life sustainable amidst the changing financial and geopolitical landscapes. Vicky Elliott, 61, and her husband David, 71, recently sold their holiday rental cottages in rural Baud, Brittany, and returned to Dorset. The couple faced challenges due to Brexit, which increased concerns and costs associated with traveling with pets. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic imposed further financial burdens, making it difficult for them to cover the annual running costs of £20,000. Similarly, Gaynor Hickmore, a retired nurse, returned to the UK from Brittany after her husband Mark passed away from COVID-19. Although she cherished the peaceful lifestyle and stargazing opportunities offered by their traditional longère in La Villeneuve, she could not justify the continuing expenses and sold the property. Despite these setbacks, Samantha Smith of Sextant Properties in Camors, Brittany, notes that age is another factor prompting some British owners to return to the UK, as they miss seeing their grandchildren during travel restrictions.
The influx of British sellers post-lockdown resulted in a surplus of properties on the market in Normandy and Brittany. However, many vendors were fortunate to find French buyers, according to Trevor Leggett, founder of Leggett Immobilier estate agency. He observes a cyclical trend in the market, with properties previously bought by French buyers returning as these owners either realize that rural life is not for them or must return to urban areas due to changing work arrangements. Leggett also mentions anecdotally that the recent surge in property sales in Normandy and Brittany can be attributed, in part, to individuals seeking refuge from the scorching heat and wildfires in southern France. The rise in temperatures has made many parts of the south uncomfortable in August, prompting Parisians and others to seek the greener and cooler north.
While the coastal towns of Deauville, Carnac Plage, and St Malo have seen an increase in prices due to wealthy Parisian buyers, there are still affordable options available on the lower end of the market. Lisa Greene of Leggett Immobilier indicates that buyers can find habitable houses for as little as €50,000, with renovation projects costing as low as €30,000. The allure of traditional stone-built longères has also contributed to the popularity of these affordable properties. Despite the recent surge in prices, the Normandy and Brittany regions remain attractive to those seeking isolation and tranquility.
In conclusion, the allure of Normandy and Brittany continues to captivate both French and British buyers. These regions offer a combination of stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and an escape from bustling city life. While some have found their dream homes unsustainable due to changing circumstances, many others have embraced the unique charm and peacefulness these areas offer. As the market fluctuates between French and British buyers, a new wave of individuals seeking a respite from the heat and wildfires in southern France are finding solace in the north. The property market in Normandy and Brittany remains diverse, with options ranging from high-end coastal properties to affordable countryside dwellings, providing opportunities for individuals to find their perfect retreat.
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