Vertolaye, Auvergne – Teacher Naomi

The small village of Vertolaye, nestled in the heart of the Livradois-Forez Natural Park, is an off-the-beaten-path destination, perfect for students wishing to discover rural France for a unique and authentic experience.

Naomi, who is passionate about the region, will take you to discover magnificent landscapes in every season, while introducing you to a surprisingly vibrant cultural life for such a small area. From friends and neighbours to local artisans and artists, there will be plenty of opportunities to practice French in addition to private lessons.

You will stay in a spacious house we renovated ourselves, surrounded by a flower-filled garden, on the edge of the forest. Your bedroom is on the second floor and suitable for a couple, with direct access to a large recreation room (TV, video games, music, library). Two bathrooms are available for your use: one on the ground floor and one on the first floor.

YOUR HOME STAY FRENCH IMMERSION IN VERTOLAYE

By immersing yourself in our home, you will gain confidence in your abilities. You will progress by daring to express yourself, without fear of making mistakes, because you will be in a caring and supportive setting. Everyday communication and French in action will allow you to expand your language skills and develop a more natural sense of language. Intensive language practice will be key to beginning to “think in French”.

The room is in the attic, with a window overlooking the wooded hills. You will be the only one sleeping on the second floor and will therefore enjoy plenty of privacy. Next to the bedroom, you can play the piano, accordion, or guitar, or watch movies on DVD or VHS! If you prefer to read, a well-stocked library is at your disposal.

I am involved in several cultural associations, notably the café associatif de la Gare de l’Utopie, just across the road from our house. I lead a monthly theatre workshop there and regularly open the bar during shows, concerts, and exhibitions. I’m also part of the village’s festival committee, which organizes events throughout the year.

We love going out, but also love welcoming guests. My husband hosts people with disabilities, so there may occasionally be someone else staying with us on the ground floor. You’ll also be sharing daily life with our two children (aged 4 and 12), our two cats, our chickens… and our turtle!

Naomi: “I have experience teaching in a variety of settings: adult education in a centre, French teacher in middle school, elementary school teacher, etc. All of these roles have been very enriching, but nothing brings me more satisfaction than offering tailor-made courses to students, focusing as closely as possible on their needs.

Sharing my region is a real source of pride. I’ve always said it: France isn’t just the Eiffel Tower and Mont-Saint-Michel!

I enjoy teaching in a cheerful atmosphere, and learning from my students too, because an immersion stay is, above all, about sharing.”

LEARNING FRENCH

I am patient, attentive, and flexible. Above all, I want students to feel comfortable. I strive to set clear and achievable goals for my lessons, based on your level and your needs.

I will offer methods and materials tailored to your interests and learning style. There are so many ways to learn French: by following the news, playing games, singing, studying literature or cooking…

We will hold classes every morning in the living room, the recreation room, or the garden, depending on your preferences and the weather.

ACTIVITIES

The number one must-do activity for nature lovers: walking. Whether it’s in the mountains, by the water, through the forest, or across open fields, I’ll share with you my love for the landscapes of the Livradois. Passing through the Utopie train station, you can walk along the rails to the Gour de Champy, a little corner of paradise on the banks of the Dore River.

The cultural program is rich, even if less bustling than in big cities. There’s always an exhibition, a show, a festival, or an event to see nearby. Not to mention the community café where you can participate in creative workshops, play board games, or just chat over a drink.

In terms of heritage, the nearby town of Ambert and the neighbouring village of Olliergues offer picturesque sights with their medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and artisans with ancient skills: basket weavers, jewellers, cheesemakers, and more. The Thursday market is a wonderful opportunity to discover local scents, flavours, and colours.

For outdoor lovers, there’s no shortage of activities: rail biking, horseback riding, golf, via ferrata, swimming, skiing, and more. And if you prefer a quieter pace, you’re welcome to join in on some gardening, pruning the rose bushes, tending the vegetable patch, and enjoying the rhythm of the seasons.

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