Since taking over the complex they have invested hundreds of hours upgrading the gites, improving the facilities and also taking on the mamoth task of converting a very large barn into a family home.  Here Gill and Phil tell of their experiences; their successes and frustrations and give tips and advice for those thinking of moving and renovating in France.  They have build up a vast bank of knowledge about how to deal with Estate Agents, architects, plumbers, plasters and local planning rules.  They are always happy to talk things over with people planning a similar venture.

AUGUST 2006-  Sorry Norman, but you've been knocked off your pedastal! Michelle Leonard of Aberdeen magically acheived a touching ball in the final of her week. This of course cannot be surpassed for this years boules, though many keep trying. The frightening thing was that Michelle kept on winning...as she said whe was a novice. Hmmmm...somehow the rest of us didnt believe her! One family has tried their upmost to surpass this...Mark and Rebecca Mcdonnell, in their second year at La Roultiere, were notibly good at boules and won both the kids and the adult tournaments.

This summer has been the hottest yet, and whilst the days have been unbearable at times, it has made the evenings warm and balmy. These perfect nights have been a great boost to our evenings of music at La Roultiere. The wonderful Amy came to sing for us in July and the party got into full swing with Abba "Dancing Queen". Anne of Newbury did a fantastic kareoke for us which had us all in stitches. Bernard the accordianist provided us with a traditional french atmosphere for other weeks in July.....perhaps we should have an Allo Allo themed fancy dress do?!

Throughout the summer, different guests arrive and depart, and each family or group or individual helps create the great atmosphere at La Roultiere. So if you have a talent, or a special interest and want to create something special here for guests, then please do not hesitate to email us. From storytelling (Dave Dickson of Glasgow was a big hit with the kids) or wine tasting, (thanks Carl Webster of Cambridge for all his tips), or even a sport, each little thing adds diversity to a holiday here, and a genuine warmth of hospitality that you holidaymakers help to create. It certainly make us feel lucky to live here all summer long!

And the last thing. For those of you who have been here on holiday already, or for anyone about to arrive, if you have any digital photos that you would like to add to our website, we would be delighted to receive them by CD. Our website will be under going a few evolutionary changes over the next few months and we are on the look out for pictures which depict the essense of what La Roultiere is all about, from sunsets to picnics, or social events, to quiet times.