French destinations for luxury holiday rentals
France has established itself for many years as one of the most sought-after destinations for
luxury holiday rentals . Between prized coastlines, secluded hinterlands, wine regions,
mountain ranges and islands with unspoiled charm, the country offers a unique diversity of high-end properties
dedicated to prestigious seasonal rentals .
Contemporary villas with sea views, Provençal country houses, historic castles, private estates or
exceptional chalets: each French region meets specific expectations, whether for family holidays,
holidays with friends, private events or international stays.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of
luxury holiday rentals , highlighting the types of properties, uses and customer profiles
associated with each area.
Why France is attracting the luxury holiday rental market
luxury seasonal rental market benefits from strong structural advantages:
- An exceptional architectural heritage
- A rare variety of landscapes on a European scale
- Easier international accessibility
- A lifestyle recognized worldwide
Unlike other destinations, France allows for an
extremely segmented high-end rental offer , ranging from ultra-contemporary villas to historic residences, while maintaining
high standards of comfort, amenities and services.
👉 For a comprehensive view of the market, also see our dedicated article:
Luxury holiday rentals in France .
The French Riviera: a historic benchmark for luxury holiday rentals
The French Riviera remains a sure bet in the luxury holiday rental market. From Nice to Saint-Tropez,
via Cannes, Antibes or Cap d'Antibes, this region boasts an exceptional selection of
luxury villas for seasonal rental .
Types of properties sought
- Contemporary villas with sea views
- Waterfront properties
- Secure private domains
- Renovated manor houses
These properties are primarily aimed at an international clientele, wealthy families, but also at
event stays requiring confidentiality, security and high-end services.
Provence and the Luberon: fortified towns and the art of living
Provence and the Luberon embody another facet of luxury holiday rentals in France:
that of authenticity, calm and the art of living.
Iconic properties
- Renovated Provençal country houses
- Charming farmhouse with swimming pool
- Vineyards for seasonal rental
- Properties with views of hilltop villages
These destinations appeal to a clientele seeking longer stays, often with families, where
modern comfort combines with the charm of stone and natural landscapes.
Corsica: privacy and natural luxury
Corsica occupies a unique place in the luxury holiday rental market. An island of character, it attracts
a clientele seeking discretion, unspoiled nature and exceptional properties.
Most sought-after areas
- Porto-Vecchio and the Far South
- Bonifacio
- Calvi and the Balagne
- Ajaccio and its surroundings
Luxury villas in Corsica are distinguished by their spectacular sea views, direct access to
beaches and high-end amenities perfectly integrated into the environment.
The Atlantic coast: elegance and discretion
Long associated with a more local clientele, the Atlantic coast is now experiencing strong
development in the luxury seasonal rental segment.
Top destinations
- Arcachon Bay
- Cap Ferret
- Hossegor
- Basque Country
The properties offered are mostly contemporary villas , architect-designed houses or
high-end family holidays
The Alps and the mountains: chalets and private estates
The mountains represent a separate segment in luxury holiday rentals , with strong seasonality
and specific expectations.
Desired items
- Luxury chalets
- Private estates with included services
- Ski-in/ski-out properties
- Residences with spa and wellness facilities
Alpine resorts attract an international clientele accustomed to very high standards of
comfort, service and privacy.
Countryside, vineyards and historic homes
Finally, a growing share of demand is turning towards luxury holiday rentals in the countryside ,
far from traditional tourist areas.
Types of property
- Castles for seasonal rental
- Manors and historic homes
- Agricultural and wine-growing estates
- Restored manor houses
These properties are ideal for multigenerational stays, private events or holidays
focused on peace, space and authenticity.
Adapting the destination to the luxury vacation rental project
Choosing a destination for a luxury vacation rental is not simply a matter of location.
It's about finding a balance between:
- The type of property sought
- The expected level of service
- The profile of the occupants
- The duration and season of the stay
👉 To refine your selection, also consult our complete guide:
How to choose a luxury vacation rental .
A market structured around exceptional goods
Luxury holiday rentals in France are based first and foremost on the quality of the property offered.
Architecture, surroundings, amenities, capacity, and level of service are key criteria
for meeting the expectations of a demanding clientele.
Whether it is a villa by the sea, a castle in the countryside or an alpine chalet, each destination
has its own codes and customs, which professionals in the sector must perfectly master.
To discover a selection of properties and delve deeper into each regional theme, you can explore
the different categories of the Charming Properties portal, dedicated to luxury holiday rentals .
