The Most Charming Luxury Villas Available for Rent in France

As summer approaches, if you find yourself dreaming of holiday experiences that involve a scenic drive or a train journey rather than flying, a family villa getaway in France may just be the ideal choice. In the realm of luxury, this encompasses not just a beautiful home tailored for your schedule, but a destination that provides amenities such as airport transfers, well-stocked fridges, and a dedicated concierge to secure reservations at the most popular local dining establishments and activities.

Today’s top villa rental services go above and beyond, including rigorous property vetting (Plum Guide), personalized travel guides specific to your chosen location (Villanovo), and concierge offerings that span from gourmet in-villa dining experiences to exclusive museum tours (Le Collectionist). The Thinking Traveller ensures that they visit each of their exclusive properties multiple times each year, often staying overnight to guarantee an exceptional experience, while at SJ Villas, the mother-son duo, Judy and Tom Menier, employs French chefs to cater to guests. Additionally, Iconic House provides every rental with a carefully selected library and an electric vehicle designed to match the property. Below are some of the most exquisite villas available on or near the French coast.

Le Coeur du Ferret, Cap Ferret, Gironde

Positioned on the stunning peninsula between Arcachon Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this luxurious property will be opening in July and includes seven en suite double rooms, a children’s dormitory, an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a cinema. Designed by local architect Frédéric Thet in collaboration with Jaune Architecture, the villa embodies the essence of an upscale Cap Ferret fishing cabin, nestled amid tranquil pine surroundings. Iconic House enhances the experience with hotel-standard services, including a dedicated chef and house manager during peak season, along with unique activities like a pinasse boat excursion. Rates start at £3,420 for a weekend or £17,105 weekly.

Villa Sciurus, Hossegor, Landes

Located in the trendy resort of Hossegor, which boasts architectural designs from the 1930s by Louis and Benjamin Gomez, this neo-Basque villa sits neatly between premier surf spots and a picturesque lake. Named after the squirrel, this recently renovated property features a vibrant exterior and unique interior details like floor tiles inspired by architect Oscar Niemeyer and custom wallpapers from Été 1981. Accommodating 14 guests in five double rooms and a children’s suite, it offers a heated outdoor pool surrounded by stylish parasols. The concierge can assist with arrangements for private surf lessons and seaside horse riding. Weekly rates begin at £7,895.

Landriou, Magescq, Landes

Beneath the enchanting history of Les Landes, where shepherds once traversed the landscape on stilts, lies this half-timbered residence, strategically located near a village famed for its artisan bakery and Michelin-star restaurant, Le Relais de la Poste. After a thoughtful restoration during the pandemic by its interior designer owner, this villa now features three trendy double bedrooms, a children’s dormitory, and a heated outdoor pool, along with a barn transformed into a bodega with a stylish zinc bar. Tailored activities can include surf lessons, cycling through the forest, or on-site cooking classes. Rentals start at £6,845 per week.

Sintineddu, Pianottoli, Corsica

The coastline near Pianottoli is distinguished by its breathtaking coves and sandy beaches. This modern villa, inspired by the Genoese watchtowers, offers a unique indoor-outdoor living experience with expansive glass walls that lead to a pool area and the ocean beyond, paired with a serene private garden at the rear. Furnished in a stylish mid-century aesthetic by the owner from Paris, the five-bedroom home is complemented by a daily maid service that includes breakfast preparation. Equipment such as kayaks and bicycles are available for guest use. Weekly rates start at £5,781.

Villa Beauchamp, Grand Hôtel du Cap Ferrat, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Alpes-Maritimes

Though the Grand-Hôtel du Cap Ferrat has been around since 1908, the three-bedroom villa, inclusive of a two-bedroom pavilion, has recently become available as a luxurious offering operated by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. It has been exquisitely renovated by Luc Svetchine, featuring interiors by Sybille de Margerie that reflect the local art scene. A private butler, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, and an outdoor pool enhance the stay. The hotel also facilitates unique experiences such as sailing trips to St. Tropez or private dinners organized by Michelin-star chef Yoric Tièche. Pricing begins at £9,405 per night.

Sunset Vibes, St Tropez, Var

Once a quaint Provençal fishing village, St. Tropez has evolved into a glamorous hotspot for celebrities. This villa, located close to Canoubiers Beach and just ten minutes from the town center, perfectly balances charm and luxury. The stylish interiors feature organic fabrics and reclaimed wood, harmonizing beautifully with the vivid blue of the rectangular pool and the lush greenery surrounding the property. Equipped with cozy daybeds ideal for enjoying views of the Mediterranean, the villa also has additional quarters for staff. Services such as private chefs, butlers, and chauffeur-driven car rentals are available upon request. Rates start at £11,929 for a week, with a minimum stay of 14 nights in July and August.

Bastide de Cala, Les Baux-de-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône

Recognized as one of the most picturesque villages in France, Les Baux-de-Provence is just a five-minute drive from this impressive manor house located amidst 160 olive trees on a two-hectare estate. Featuring four double bedrooms and an additional room in an outbuilding, the property boasts a heated saltwater pool and a fire pit perfect for stargazing. Guests are encouraged to secure dining reservations at the renowned three Michelin-star establishment, L’Oustau de Baumanière, and can book activities such as horseback tours through the Alpilles, private wine estate tours, or exclusive excursions to some of the region’s most stunning manors. Nightly rates begin at €2,571.