We have owned a holiday property in the Charente and lived for three years in the Var, being forced to return to UK due to work and family commitments,three years ago. We are now looking for the "Final Solution", with regards to our retirement!. The Var is out pricewise, we will never find that ruin again! and because it was a bit too hot, the forest fires also came a bit close for comfort!! We have looked closely at the Aude/Arriege, and also Gers, but have recently seen a property in the Allier region of the Auvergne, which would fit the bill but do not know anything about the area. The new route to Clermont Ferrand is an attraction, but is there anyone living in the region that could give us the "Red Hot Low Down?" Thanks in anticipation.