17 Dream Villas in the South of France, From 18th-Century Country Homes to Beachside Getaways

Skip to main contentThe ultimate addresses to take over this season.Courtesy AirbnbMuch like the villages, the beaches, and the food in this region, the hotels in the South of France are among some of the best and most beautiful in the world. But if you prefer to go it alone and live like a local, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region is equally well equipped to offer a private country homestay as well. In fact, renting a villa here is one of the best ways to truly get under the skin of charming towns and villages. Choose from a provincial home surrounded by lavender fields or a sprawling villa right on the French Riviera. With countless addresses available, here we round up some of the top villas in the South of France we've got our eye on. For smaller stays, see our pick of the best Airbnbs in the South of France.We've vetted these listings based on Superhost and Guest Favorite status, ratings, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor.Villa Des Ocres, ProvenceNumber of guests: 6Beds and baths: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathsWhy we love it: Renovated, private pool, washing machineA thorough renovation in recent years has transformed this villa into something unique at the heart of Provence. A new, sleek, and modern feel can be found within the original stone walls, where a marble kitchen, contemporary furnishings, and an unusual selection of art create surprise and delight. Wake up on sun-dappled Saturday mornings and wander the markets in Apt, or take a leisurely stroll through lavender-scented vineyards and the cherry orchards in the Luberon. There’s a wealth of hiking in the region, and kids will love the nearby treetop adventure center. Don’t miss the local pizzeria that pops up each summer—get a slice before they’re gone.Villa Colombe, St TropezNumber of guests: 12Beds and baths: 6 bedrooms, 5 bathsWhy we love it: Private pool, gardens, balconyCrisp and airy, this modern villa is a relaxed retreat with room to sleep 12 across six bedrooms, and a private pool surrounded by gardens. There are six bedrooms in total, some of which open up onto the balcony, while the bedroom on the lower level is best reserved for children. The lounge is a light-filled and languid affair with plenty of seating from plush couches to rattan stools and bright bohemian pillows scattered about. Meals can be served at the dining table on the terrace, which also features sun loungers and an additional seating area with sofas, as well as views of the bright blue Med in the distance. When you want to venture further, Pampelonne Beach, with its beachside restaurants and the famed Club 55, is only a 10-minute walk away.Le Mas des Bonnettes, Le PradetNumber of guests: 22Beds and baths: 11 bedrooms, 10.5 bathsWhy we love it: Library, gardens, infinity poolThe location of this glamorous estate couldn’t be more private and picturesque—near the charming seaside town of La Pradet and set within four hectares of gardens and pine trees with a peaceful sandy beach just a five-minute stroll away. With room to sleep 22, there are 11 suites spread across five separate residences. There are five suites set within the main house, along with an elegant sage-green kitchen, a grand library, and a large cathedral living room. Outside, much of the action takes place around the 427-foot infinity pool, surrounded by a wooden deck with various seating areas. Also on the grounds is a swimming spa, tennis court, petanque court plus a pier where yachts can be docked. Concierge services including a private chef and massages can be arranged.Villa Sunset, GordesNumber of guests: 6Beds and baths: 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathsWhy we love it: En suite bathrooms, pool, proximity to local shopsIt’s all about those spectacular valley views from the swimming pool at this 17th-century hillside home. Located just a short stroll from the charming town of Gordes, this three-bedroom villa makes for an ideal slow-paced family stay. All bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms and air conditioning, while the third bedroom has twin beds, making it a perfect option for children. The interiors are a pretty picture of French Provincial living with whitewashed walls, exposed beams, rugged stones, and wooden furniture. Within walking distance, you’ll find a local market, bakery, and cheese shop, while Provence Country Club’s 18-hole is a drive away.L'Étoile des Baux, BauxNumber of guests: 15Beds and baths: 8 bedrooms, 8 bathsWhy we love it: Lush grounds, pool views, fitness roomA rare mix between eye-catching contemporary architecture, ancient stone walls, mosaic-tiled floors and warm Provençal tones, this eight-bedroom house faces a craggy limestone cliff and the impressive medieval Citadel of les Baux-de-Provence. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and the Alpilles mountain range, the villa’s lush grounds and pool-with-a-view are just part of the draw. The owners’ hospitality vision goes beyond deep comfort, fine linens, and fragrant natural bath products to include bespoke touches. The house manager knows every nook and cranny of the area, and you can roll up to a nearby restaurant in the Mehari four-seat electric golf cart. There’s an in-house mini-grocery shelf stocked with the best locally sourced nibbles, an honesty bar with access to a wine cellar of regional vintages, and enough to keep you busy day and night: a mini theater and outdoor cinema with surround sound, a fitness room, and nearby tennis and golf clubs. Kids will love the two luminous garden suites carved out of the rock and embedded with seashell fossils.Riviera Delight, just outside CannesNumber of guests: 6Bed and bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathsWhy we love it: Proximity to Cannes, infinity pool, private terraceSprays of pink and purple blooms climb up the flagstone walls of this quintessentially French villa, which packs in rustic charm. Wooden beams, little shutters, and a charming blue and yellow tiled kitchen all add a plentiful dose of Riviera flair. Outside, landscaped gardens look out over the mountains beyond, and the huge infinity pool that melts into the landscape on the private terrace is just the ticket for summery midday swims. There’s plenty to do nearby—challenge yourself to climb to the pretty hilltop village of Mougins, beloved by Picasso, which is just 1.2 miles away. It’s a steep trek, but it’s worth it. Alternatively, jump in the car and you’ll be in glitzy Cannes within half an hour.St. Julien, La Mole, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurNumber of guests: 12Bed and bath: 6 bedrooms, 6 bathsWhy we love it: Hillside views, AC, en suite bathroomsA week-long vacation with your closest family and friends never looked better thanks to this picture-perfect villa located on the hill of La Mole. You'll be sure to want to take plenty of pictures of the spectacular view and 19th-century home—and don't forget to take a dip in the pool. All six bedrooms have air conditioning and en suite bathrooms, and the primary suite has its own personal living room for extra privacy. While you're out there, it's also worth driving the short 20 minutes to St. Tropez. Whether you're lounging in the pool, sitting in the shade on one of the covered terraces, or taking a walk on one of the privately maintained trails, there's plenty to do and see in the area.Villa Mita, Cassis, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurNumber of guests: 11Bed and bath: 6 bedrooms, 4 bathsWhy we love it: Terrace, vineyards, beachPlanning a large family vacation or a group trip for everyone? This six-bedroom villa sleeps 11, and the owners note that it can also be used to host seminars or team-building stays. Besides the terrace, private pool, and impeccable views, the well-maintained gardens and vineyards are sure to charm you. Plus, it's just a 20-minute walk from the nearby village where you can enjoy the beach and port as well as the local shops and restaurants. If you're there on a Wednesday or Friday, be sure to head to the local market to get a taste of all the amazing regional products. We won’t be surprised if you end up wanting to move to the area after your stay.The Mas de Canfier, The Luberon, ProvenceNumber of guests: 14Bed and bath: 7 bedrooms, 7.5 bathsWhy we love it: Olive groves, dedicated kids' area, fireplaceThis breezy country house is located within the Natural Park of the Luberon and surrounded by organic olive groves. The building originally dates back to the 18th century, although only the architectural details like the honey-hued wooden beams remain—the rest has been refreshed with all-white and warm tones. All seven bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms and air conditioning. The house has an ideal set-up for little ones, including a bedroom in the annex apartment that can be set up with two single beds, as well as another bedroom with a separate dressing room that has a cot. There’s even a dedicated living room for kids to play in, as well as a summer living room with direct access to the garden and a winter living room with a fireplace. Nearby, the small village of Ronion has a farmers market, while the popular town of Gordes is about six miles away.Lavender Bloom, Saint-Martin-de-Castillon, VaucluseNumber of guests: 14Bed and bath: 8 bedrooms, 8.5 bathsWhy we love it: Lavender fields, hidden terrace, children's bedroomThe smell of lavender lingers in the air outside this provincial country home. In addition to the surrounding lavender fields, the villa has an idyllic Mediterranean garden, with a cobblestone pathway leading down to a hidden terrace, outdoor lounge, and swimming pool. The house is a traditional 17th-century maison, with romantic sky-blue shutters on the outside and exposed stone walls and wooden beams on the inside. There are seven spacious bedrooms, all with equally large en suite bathrooms—some also have seating or dressing areas. The littlest guests will love the dormitory-style bedroom, with room for eight children to enjoy the ultimate holiday sleepover.Toulon, La Seyne-sur-Mer, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurNumber of guests: 12Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathsWhy we love it: Infinity pool, Mediterranean sea views, gardenThe shade of blue in the heated infinity pool at this beachside villa matches the blue of the Mediterranean behind it so much so that if you stand in the right spot, the two blend into each other. The location alone makes this villa a standout. Behind the pool, shaded by soaring pine and olive trees, the white five-bedroom house is equally impressive. All five bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms and leafy views of the landscape garden or the sea. In the primary bedroom is a supersized bathtub, as well as a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Interiors are smart yet minimalist, with room for the crew to curl up on cheerful yellow sofas by the fireplace as well as let loose in the games room complete with a pool table, foosball table, and arcade game.Villa Paradise, Eze Sur Mer, French RivieraNumber of guests: 10Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathsWhy we love it: Beaches, indoor/outdoor pool, fitness roomThere’s something hypnotic about the jaw-dropping view from this white-on-white glassed-in villa, wedged between the rocky pinnacle of medieval Eze and the pebble beaches, which may be why French rappers and prime-time TV shows have singled it out for shoots. From the indoor/outdoor pool jutting out over the cliff, you see a glorious medley of ever-changing sea-and-sky blues and a complete sweep of the coast. The turquoise Mediterranean remains the star attraction in the open-plan kitchen, airy living room and minimalist bedrooms. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness room where you can work out with a coach, an adjacent tennis court, and a range of bespoke services, from private chefs to boat hire. Of course, it was dreamed up as a place to entertain. Villa Paradise’s unabashedly glamorous luxury sits neatly among what former Eze resident Friedrich Nietzsche found unforgettable about the site: the natural beauty of pastel pink and orange sunsets.Le Mas En Rose, Avignon, ProvenceNumber of guests: 10Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathsWhy we love it: Saltwater pool, swings, outdoor loungeThis charming traditional farmhouse near Avignon is hard to beat for a cozy and romantic family stay. The setup is particularly ideal if you have little ones, with the first floor including two double bedrooms (one with a bath en suite), a twin bedroom, and a children’s room with twin beds. Outside, there’s plenty of room to run wild and explore, along with a child-safe saltwater pool and climbing frame with swings in the garden. While the kids entertain themselves, adults can put their feet up on the spacious outdoor lounge with a glass of local wine—there’s an impressive collection of bottles on the dining room wall. The nearby village has a couple of cafes and restaurants should you want to dine out. Otherwise, the kitchen is well-equipped to cook a French feast for the whole family.Villa Ama Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez, French RivieraNumber of guests: 14Bed and bath: 7 bedrooms, 7 bathsWhy we love it: Fully staffed, helipad, beach pathWhat puts this low-slung villa a cut above the multitudes of swoon-worthy holiday homes near Saint Tropez has everything to do with art. It’s owned by a renowned European collector, so the walls and 108,000 square-foot garden area are filled with astonishing museum-quality contemporary works from Jeff Koons, Richard Serra, and Damien Hirst, rivaled only by the enchanting unbroken vistas of Pampelonne Bay. With a staff of four on hand, limo service, and a helipad for quick getaways, you may still prefer to lounge on a sunbed by the heated pool or take the wooded path to the beach, a five-minute walk to Le Club 55. The sleek modern interiors of the seven bedrooms—which include one kids’ room with three beds, plus two bedrooms in the guesthouse—are uncluttered and unpretentiously elegant. In keeping with the spirit of the place, there’s an extensive gym for toned-body maintenance and, best of all, a high-tech open-air cinema with a giant screen that springs magically from the ground.Villa Garoupe, Cap d’Antibes, French RivieraNumber of guests: 8Bed and bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathsWhy we love it: Sundeck, private pontoon, beach cabinsSet on the small curve of powdery sand that is Garoupe Beach on the Cap d’Antibes and immortalized in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night, this former beach-club-turned-villa is a one-of-a-kind architectural concept. It's a sprawling waterfront property with a shaded dining terrace and living area, a sundeck with retro-style beach cabins, a heated plunge pool, and a private pontoon. Nothing rivals the tumble out of bed into the turquoise shallows location. This was a glittery hotspot in its heyday—Edith Piaf held her engagement party here, figures such as JFK and Churchill would drop in for a swim, and trendsetting ’20s couple Sara and Gerald Murphy hosted picnics for Picasso, Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Hemingway. There's also a cozy kids' bedroom in an under-the-roof space and an extensive concierge service, while the minimalist constraints still add up to a breezy yacht-like feel, making Villa Garoupe the perfect spot for a Mediterranean holiday without ever having to leave the shore.Les Confines, St Remy, ProvenceNumber of guests: 18Bed and bath: 10 bedrooms, 7 bathsWhy we love it: Spiral staircase, two pools, canopy bedsAt this stately 18th-century bastide—the former home of architect and landscape-designer couple Bruno and Dominique Lafourcade—guests are catapulted into deep Provence: the three-story lime-washed ochre façade and green shutters and the beautifully structured gardens ablaze with bright blooms, rare plants, wisteria, and topiary hedges, seem timeless, as if this tranquil 20-acre property, built from scratch, had been there for centuries. A spiral staircase leads to a lookout platform on a towering plane tree, a mini summer cottage sits next to the orchard, and two pools are set within the gardens. Inside the comfortable manor house, bedrooms are furnished with pretty canopy beds and clawfoot tubs in the bathrooms. Downstairs, the well-equipped country kitchen has everything you need to whip up a ratatouille, or you can hire a local chef for a Provençal feast served on the long marble tables of the outdoor dining terrace.This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK. It has been updated with new information since its original publish date.Born and raised in New York, Lanie Goodman is an arts and travel writer based in the south of France since 1988. Her articles appear in Departures, Centurion, The Wall Street Journal and Cultured and she is the author of Romantic French Homes (Cico Books, London, 2022) and Moving Towards ... Read MoreLauren Burvill is the senior commerce writer at Condé Nast Traveller, where she writes and commissions hotel, Airbnb, and shopping stories and reviews. Originally from Australia and now based in London, Lauren joined Condé Nast in 2018 and has since written for British Vogue, Glamour, GQ and Brides. Prior to ... Read MoreRecommended Among Paris’s five-star hotels, this is the literal palace to book for front-row seats to the Eiffel Tower.Read full reviewThe French debut for the Maybourne Hotel Group has redefined the sleepy village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.Read full reviewView All France All of our best hotel, restaurant, and activity recommendations in one place.