French Life

Whether they have a big allotment or a small garden, many people in France cultivate fruit and vegetables as well as flowers. Here, three dedicated gardeners explain the joy of growing their own

Emily Commander tells the moving stories of three groups of people from different parts of the country who decided to do what they could to help.

These days, French ski resorts offer plenty of activities for those who don't want to be on the pistes all day. Catherine Cooper discovers the most gentle

Samantha David meets the French-speaking, trumpet-playing, Irish-American nun who watches over the now-uninhabited Corrèze abbey that inspired a young Coco Chanel

Mick Moat hopes to attract 100 gardens to the charitable scheme by the end of next year

Theatre group in Pyrénées-Atlantiques to stage an extra show to cope with demand for tickets this year

Trio of events to raise money for good causes this winter

From country dancing and Christmas meals to advice on finding a good plumber, anglophone association is there for everyone

... but it's not a dating site!, say founders

Have you run out of inspiration for Christmas gifts for loved ones? Why not treat them to a real flavour of France? Emily Commander has a few ideas for you to choose from