I spend 3-4 months a year in rural France and will spend more soon.
I agree you can live well on less than in Canada, buying food locally, driving little, living in a smaller/less energy-consuming house, etc. A small garden feeds you for months at almost no cost!
Many retired people in France live on very little. Just do what they do: enjoy time with friends, garden, be outdoors, hunt for mushrooms, visit local fairs which take place constantly . . . Use the public library.
Banking costs are high-- I haven't found a no- fee French account. Is there one?
I keep my savings in Canadian investment funds and make periodic transfers.
For those visiting France, try renting apartments by the week and cooking.
Look for chambres d'hotes, which ar B and B type rooms. Great meals and good value.
A few phrases of French will go far. But zero French is rude!