Sharing in France’s Sporting Spirit
There’s something about September that always feels like a fresh start, isn’t there? New school shoes, a hint of autumn in the air… and, of course, the brand new football season. Whether you’re someone who lives for match day or you just enjoy the buzz of sport, being at Halcyon Retreat puts you right in the heart of it all – with France’s passion for the game (and plenty of other sports too) never far away.
Football Fever in France
Now, we can’t talk about sport in September without mentioning football. From Ligue 1 giants right down to the local clubs, the atmosphere is infectious. Just over an hour from us, you’ve got Clermont Foot 63, who play in Ligue 2, the second tier of French football. Their home games are full of energy, colour, and French spirit. If you’ve never been to a French football match before, it’s an experience in itself.
Closer to home, there’s US La Souterraine, the local team. Sundays here are all about grassroots football: families wrapped up in scarves, kids kicking a ball on the sidelines, and everyone having a good laugh together. It’s less about big stadiums and more about community, the kind of thing that makes you feel right at home.
And don’t worry, if your loyalty lies with a team back home, you won’t miss out. The bars and cafés in La Souterraine often show the big matches, so you can still cheer (or hide behind your hands) with a glass of local wine in hand.

When It’s Not About Football
Not everyone is glued to football scores, and that’s the beauty of this part of France: there’s a sport for everyone.
Take rugby. The nearest big club is CA Brive, a team with a great history and some of the most passionate fans you’ll ever meet. A Brive match day is noisy, thrilling and guaranteed to get even the most casual spectator clapping along.
Or how about cycling? This region is made for it. Winding country roads, rolling hills, forests… it’s no wonder the Tour de France often weaves its way through Nouvelle-Aquitaine. At Halcyon Retreat, you’ve even got your own fleet of bikes to take out. You can imagine yourself in yellow jersey mode, before heading back for a swim and a glass of something chilled.

Sporting Events Worth Shouting About
France is home to some of the world’s most iconic sporting events. There’s Roland Garros, the Parisian tennis slam that has everyone picking up a racket come summer. Then there’s the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, where endurance racing meets high-octane glamour. And dotted all around the country you’ll find local marathons, fun runs, and even pétanque competitions – the French equivalent of a good old village cricket match, with just as much friendly rivalry.
Sport Meets Serenity at Halcyon Retreat
The best bit? After a day of sporting adventure; whether it’s cheering from the stands, pedalling through the countryside or just kicking a ball about with the kids – you get to come back to calm. Take a dip in the pool, a moment in the spa, or a wind down sitting on the terrace while the sun dips behind the chateau.
At Halcyon Retreat, it’s all about balance. Excitement when you want it, tranquillity when you need it.
Final Whistle
So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a rugby enthusiast, a cyclist in the making, or just someone who loves soaking up the atmosphere of great sporting moments, La Souterraine and its surroundings have you covered. And when the final whistle blows? You’ll always have a little slice of luxury waiting back at the Retreat.
Speak to our Team
Dreaming of the perfect holiday home in France? Our team is here to help you discover stunning forest villas and luxury apartments, complete with exceptional facilities. Get in touch today and start turning that dream into reality.