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La Charité sur Loire - city of light and books
Once known as Seyr, or "City of Light", La Charité sur Loire is a delightful town found in west Burgundy, close to the departmental capital city of Nevers. The town is characterised by a huge bridge that spans the Loire, and by an unusually high number of bookshops, particularly antiquarian and specialist bookshops, earning it the second soubriquet of "Town of Books".
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Charm and heritage
La Charité sur Loire is a town of considerable charm, and its rich history and heritage are evident everywhere you look. From the wonderful bridge to the ancient streets, from the ruined priory to the Cathedral of Notre Dame, it is not surprising that this was recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1998. The town is also known as a pilgrim town, an important way marker on the ancient route taken by the faithful on their way to Santiago de Compostela.
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A modern edge
In spite of all its history, La Charité also has a decidedly modern approach to life, and particularly celebrates the good things in life, i.e. the famous Burgundian gastronomy. The town has a full complement of shops and services, leaving you wanting for nothing, but its real glory for many Francophiles is its fantastic range of superb restaurants where you can make the most of the very best of French food and wine.
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If music be the food of love...
Great music and fabulous food are an inspired combination, even Shakespeare thought so! Here in La Charité sur Loire you can enjoy this tasty marriage of life's pleasures, as not only does the town have a celebrated gastronomy but also it plays host to a number of musical festivals throughout the year.
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Out and about
It's not all about food and drink in Burgundy, although at first you may be forgiven for thinking so. The region around La Charité sur Loire is actually also a sportsman's paradise, with many activities available such as sailing, walking, cycling, swimming, tennis and golf on the agenda and within easy reach.
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How to get there
To get to La Charité sur Loire by air, you can fly to either Lyon or Paris, then take a hire car or train for the rest of the journey (there is a railway station in the town, with links to Paris). Lyon is served by Air France, British Airways, easyJet and bmi; Paris Orly by Air France; and Paris Charles de Gaulle by British Airways, Air France, bmi, bmibaby, flybe, easyJet, Jet2, Thomsonfly and Aer Lingus. If driving, you will find the town from the A77 auto route.
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Property prices and availability in and around La Charité sur Loire
Burgundy may not seem to be as well known as many areas of France, but it has a healthy and devoted bunch of aficionados in both France and abroad. Its sheer quality of life and excellent location makes it perfect for those who are seeking a perfect spot for retirement, as it is unspoiled yet close to all services. For these reasons property can be pricey, but as ever, there are bargains if you know where to look.
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LA CHARITÉ SUR LOIRE AT A GLANCE |
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