Introducing Sophie Tuis, at 26, already a pioneering young entrepreneur. Her fledgling farming business, Domaine Agricole Des Rives Loup  is developing a-pace. Sophie took over a pre-existing farm plot 3 years ago and has great plans for the future.

Her small team are already part of the local and regional landscape, enjoying a high-profile position at the bi-weekly market in Villeneuve-Loubet village (Weds and Sat). Sophie’s stall bursts with healthy produce, reflecting her personality and visionary zeal.

She is frequently accompanied by her canine companions whose impeccable behaviour showcases her other passion - dog agility training. When the village celebrates its medieval Royal connections (www.villeneuve-renaissance.com) her beloved horse joins in, too.

Down on the farm, plenty of evidence shows her intuitive love of, and connection with, animals, both those part of the farm and the copious collection of cats. Poulets, pantards, rabbits and pregnant ewes co-exist in a sunny, mountain air spot. Sophie’s pannier orders are fast becoming a popular strand of the enterprise and will transport the principles and tastes of her natural farming techniques and especially the contented animals, around the locality (see details below).

The farm is currently under-going re-construction, with clear zones to indicate its future, integrated business. An on-site cooking facility (planned for 2016), will encourage visitors to participate and learn more about the produce grown, a river-side picnic-area and a dedicated trail for educational visits are just some of the projects underway. Polytunnels and the 100s of new fruit trees keep the dedicated team busy from dawn to dusk.

The Domain follows the principles of AR - Agriculture Raisonee (AR). The AR -  ‘sustainable farming’ -  kite-mark encourages a wide, holitic application of natural (non-nitrate) and integrated practices. Its emphasis on animal well-being, preserving water and recycling sanitary output all feature on the farm, even at this early stage of its life under Sophie’s leadership.

Contact Sophie Tuis for more details about the Domaine: rivesduloup@gmail.com

Tel: +33 (0)7.82.25.58.63 or +33 (0)6.99.91.67.41