Easter is a wonderful time to visit the south of France, with bright spring sunshine and a long list of festivities to join in. Alternatively enjoy exploring the length and breadth of the Cote d’Azur without the summer crowds.

As the predominant religion in France is Roman Catholic, no city, village or town is without a church and Valbonne – home to some of our premier South of France real estate – is no exception. On the Thursday before Good Friday, the majority of church bells in France are silenced to acknowledge Jesus’ death.

So for those of you visiting Valbonne real estate on the Thursday before Easter – which falls on April 8^th this year – listen out to the peels of the 12^th century Saint Blaise church which can be found at the bottom of the village.

The bells of Saint Blaise will chime again on Easter morning in celebration of the Resurrection, to announce that Jesus is alive again. Don’t be surprised if some people come up to you to kiss and embrace you at this moment as that is a tradition in some towns and villages across France.

Easter in France is a time for families, and most people will get together with their relatives to enjoy the festivities. Many will hide Easter eggs in their gardens, homes and playgrounds so house-hunters with young children searching for Valbonne real estate over this weekend may be able to join in an Easter egg hunt.  The Mairie in Valbonne will have information available on organised Easter eggs hunts during your visit.

If you are lucky enough to visit French friends during your trip to look at South of France real estate you might get to experience some sublime French food. Lamb is often served for the main dish on Easter Sunday, tenderly cooked and served with a potato and vegetable dish.

The confiseries throughout Valbonne will be packed with beautifully crafted chocolate eggs and figurines for the perfect gift to take your hosts, or even to take home after your Valbonne real estate trip is over.

One thing to remember is that Easter Monday is a bank holiday in France, so don’t expect the festivities to be over until at least the next day.