The South of France has long been shorthand for bucolic romance. The region has drawn painters, film stars, and sun-starved travelers for generations, seducing them with endless vineyards and lavender fields, sleepy medieval villages, and its glittering Riviera. From Provence to the Côte d’Azur, the south of France offers a storybook mélange of rustic farmhouses, centuries-old castles and estates, along with honey-hued stone houses tucked into timeless hilltop towns.
Whether you fancy swimming in a pool besides your own château, late evening pétanque games at a centuries-old castle, gathering a group of friends at a hillside estate, or cozying up in a rustically romantic village apartment, Airbnb has options for turning every south of France fantasy into a reality. Here are some of the most extraordinary homes for rent in the region—spots so tempting, you might just want to cancel your return ticket and settle in for a year in Provence.
Perks: Sleeps a crowd, heated pool, air conditioning, indoor fireplace, crib, cleaning available during your stay, pizza oven
If you’ve been dreaming of a hilltop Provençal estate, it’s entirely possible you’ve manifested this Airbnb into being. Nestled in the countryside near the picturesque village of Gordes, the 12-bedroom home offers striking mountain views along with a range of picturesque outdoor perks that include a heated pool, hammock, pétanque court, and an elegant garden. The home’s interiors have been thoughtfully maintained and updated with striking features such as original exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and a mammoth fireplace. The furniture has been curated for its bright palette of whites and creams that blend harmoniously with the original stone walls and ceilings. From $1,007 per night.
Perks: Ocean-front views, central AC, swimming pool, security system
This palatial estate on the French Riviera might be large enough for a royal wedding, but that doesn’t mean you can’t book the six-bedroom home all for yourself. Everything about this rental is over-the-top, from the palm trees that flank the front door to the grand entry hall complete with marble columns, a sweeping staircase, and ceiling frescos. Staying here feels a bit like having a castle all to yourself, one where you can while away the days outside in the gardens, by the pool, or along the nearby shores. The grand, high-ceilinged spaces interiors are outfitted with antique furnishings and chandeliers, along with an elective blend of mid-century pieces and lots of artwork. Should the mood strike for a soirée fit for a king, the home’s living room and conservatory can easily accommodate 200 for a cocktail party. From $9,241 per night.
Perks: On a creek, full of antiques, fireplace, outdoor dining area, terrace
A former shepherd’s house, this Airbnb near the very small village of La Loube looks like a Vincent Van Gogh landscape brought to life. Built between the late 17th century and early 18th century, the picturesque home has been restored by thoughtful architects who preserved the building’s rustic simplicity while ushering it into the modern era. The original plasterwork and wooden ceiling beams were kept intact, with new materials such as oak flooring, stone sinks, and copper faucets added to accentuate the home’s history. It’s a romantic spot for two people looking to do little else but lounge in the garden, walk through the nearby villages, and swim in the creek on property. From $135 per night.
Perks: Sleeps a crowd, heated pool, pétanque court, chef, cleaners, and airport transfer available upon request, close to wineries and a golf course