Whether it’s to swap South African winter for a European summer, enjoy a simpler lifestyle or invest Rands offshore, more and more South Africans are looking beyond traditional expat hotspots like Australia, the UK and Dubai in favour of lesser-known rural locations abroad.
One such destination is Creuse, a department nestled in the rural Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in central France. Although it’s a quiet and rural outpost by anyone’s standards, Creuse has seen a notable influx of South Africans in recent years, with dozens – possibly hundreds – of South African property owners and entrepreneurs establishing a foothold here. The opportunities for investment are broad, from buying one-bedroom apartments to sprawling chateaux to supporting industries like homeware stores. So, what is it that’s drawing South Africans to this lesser-known part of central France?
1. It’s a world away but still within reach
Deep in the French countryside, Creuse is one of the most sparsely populated departments in the country, with just 21 people per square kilometre. For South Africans (and anyone else who lives here), this means unspoilt nature, quiet roads, clean air and personal safety, which are becoming increasingly rare in modern life. For South Africans used to having a connection with the land and nature on their doorstep, Creuse feels familiar in all the right ways.
Despite its rural charm though, Creuse isn’t completely isolated. Quaint towns like Boussac offer modern conveniences such as doctors, public services, local markets and artisan food shops. Its similar time zone to South Africa makes for an ideal base while staying connected to home. Finally, with its opposite seasons to South Africa, many are now using it as a “second home” destination to enjoy long and lazy European summers while escaping the chill of winter back home.
2. A solid offshore investment option
In the face of our current global economic uncertainty and a volatile Rand, property remains one of South Africans’ more stable long-term investments – especially when bought in euros. And, unlike Paris or Provence, property prices in Creuse are far more affordable. Whether it’s a rustic fixer-upper or a grand chateau, buying property here is often far more within reach for South Africans looking to invest abroad.
That’s exactly what drew South African entrepreneurs Christo and Elbé Lindeque to the region four years ago. In 2021, they purchased Chateau de Montflour, a regal 15th-century estate surrounded by five hectares of woodland. With its historic towers, polychrome ceilings, and walk-in fireplaces, the chateau was nevertheless in dire need of revival. Undaunted by the task ahead, they spent the next few years restoring the property into an exclusive and luxurious boutique hotel and events space.
Today, Chateau de Montflour boasts five sumptuous guest suites featuring eclectic décor, luxurious mod cons, and plenty of space to rest and recharge. Visiting guests are presented with local cuisine accompanied by local wines, and there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. The Lindeque’s journey wasn’t easy, but the results of their efforts are a testament to their South African spirit of grit and determination to “get things done.”
3. Secluded yet accessible
While Creuse is secluded, it’s surprisingly easy to reach from within France. After a direct flight from South Africa to Paris with Air France, it’s around a two-hour train ride from Gare D’Austerlitz to Limoges. From there, you can arrange a private transfer or shuttle, or if you’re staying at a chateau like Chateau de Montflour, this is arranged for you. While you probably wouldn’t stumble upon Creuse accidentally, it’s accessible enough for family visits, weekend getaways to Paris, or exploring other parts of Europe before or after. Hitting that sweet spot of being hidden but not too hidden is part of its appeal.
4. A land of opportunities
Creuse and its surroundings has also become an unexpected link to the South African tech and aerospace sectors. Larger companies based in the South of France and Toulouse – such as companies working on satellites and space-bound camera technology – have growing ties with South African companies and talent. It’s early days, but the potential for more collaboration is growing, especially as France actively encourages business investment through grants, tax incentives and other support systems.
In Creuse specifically, South Africans are making this happen on a smaller scale, too. From renovating homes into boutique guesthouses to starting homeware and design stores, the South African entrepreneurial spirit is clearly alive and well.
5. The allure of the challenge
Taking on a renovation in rural Creuse is not for the fainthearted. The language barrier, heritage regulations, high labour costs and the slower pace of life can be testing. But for many South Africans, those challenges are part of the appeal. While some new residents like the Lindeque’s have taken on ambitious chateaux restorations, others have found joy in renovating a one-bedroom cottage and selling it before buying more property and renovating again. There’s a sense of adventure and determination that’s deeply familiar to South Africans here: stories are shared, advice is exchanged, and slowly but surely, a vibrant community is forming.
A different kind of life
In a world defined by hustle, noise and uncertainty, Creuse offers something entirely different. It’s a place of timeless beauty, where living a good life means living simply and taking things slower. For many South Africans, putting roots down in Creuse isn’t just a lifestyle choice; it’s about redefining what really matters to them: connection, authenticity and peace of mind.
