Nowhere does grandeur quite like a French château. Beyond wrought-iron gates and long gravel drives, you may find formal gardens with clipped topiary, acres of woodland, vineyards, towers and salons that have seen several centuries pass through them. Some are grand and impeccably restored, others softer around the edges, with weathered stone and rooms that carry the character of the house.
From the limestone slopes of Burgundy to the grand estates of Bordeaux and the sun-baked vines of Provence, for anyone who really loves wine, a trip through France’s vineyards can feel like a spiritual homecoming. Centuries of cultivation, trade and an almost obsessive attention to what grows best where have turned its wine regions into places of pilgrimage. Bordeaux and Burgundy long ago transcended the vineyards that produced them, their wines carried along rivers, shipped through ports and traded by merchants who carried those names far beyond France.
By the time June has rolled around, France has already begun its turn towards summer. It happens, at first, in domestic ways – shutters close against the white-hot sun, cherries are packed into lunch boxes, chairs spread across pavements, bottles of white wine and rosé bead in the heat, ready to be sipped long into still-light evenings. Everywhere, there are bare arms and sun tans. The new, bright smell of citrus. Barbecues. Grilled fish.
Provence is one of those destinations that comes pre-lit in the imagination, with its pale stone and plane trees, lavender roads and olive groves, shutters faded by hot, languid summers. For travellers, its appeal is enduring, it is in the village squares where chilled rosé beads in heat, in châteaux with pale turrets and storybook proportions, in the Provençal light that softens the edges of a day. For those who have not yet been, this corner of France can feel like a memory they have not got around to living.
The Loire Valley offers a slower sort of persuasion, with its pale stone villages, wide river light, and vines combed neatly over the hills. For centuries, this part of France has drawn kings, writers, winemakers and travellers. Leonardo Da Vinci – the great Renaissance man himself – decided to spend the last of his days here, coming to Amboise with his notebooks and inventions. He died at Clos Lucé in 1519, having crossed the
Cannes has always understood the glamour of a little theatre. Long before the black cars and the ceremonial ascent of the Palais steps, this small fishing town had already begun rehearsing its role as a place of refuge. In the 1830s, Lord Brougham, waylaid on his way to Italy, found himself on this bend of the Riviera and did what generations of travellers have done since: he looked at the light, the sea, the olive trees, and decided not to leave quite yet.
Brittany has that indefinable something that makes you want to return again and again. Changing light, salty air, rugged landscapes and a strong identity: going on holiday to Brittany means offering yourself an authentic escape, far from the superfluous, where nature and culture speak to each other at every turn.
In 1925, F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda settled south of the Côte d'Azur at the Villa Saint Louis in Cap d'Antibes. His stay influenced his famous novel "Gatsby the Magnificent" with its extravagant and decadent characters. The art of living continues on the Cap d'Antibes...
Nestled between the green hills of the Côte d'Azur a few kilometers from Cannes and Antibes, Valbonne is a picturesque Provencal village which seduces with its authenticity and charm. This historic place, with cobbled streets and stone houses, offers a quiet and cultural escape, far from the tumult of the big cities of the Riviera. Whether you are a nature, history or gastronomy lover, Valbonne is an ideal destination for a relaxing stay.
Grasse is nestled in the heart of the fragrant hills of the Côte d'Azur, it is an essential destination for lovers of relaxation and cultural discoveries in Provence. Renowned worldwide as the perfume capital, this picturesque city offers much more than captivating fragrances. It is a true haven of peace where history, nature, and Provençal culture blend harmoniously.
France is full of unique but also unusual activities for all lovers of nature, adventure and breathtaking landscapes. Discover below a selection of the best experiences to enjoy, whether you are looking for thrills or moments of relaxation.
These seven popular museums highlight the rich artistic heritage of the South of France, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of artistic styles and historical contexts, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, making it a must-visit region for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne region, Monpazier is a picturesque bastide town renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant local markets and rich history. This charming destination offers a perfect escape for travellers seeking a blend of cultural exploration and relaxation. Discover the allure of Monpazier with Pure France’s holiday rental homes, where comfort meets tradition in an unforgettable setting.
Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, Fumel offers an enchanting escape with its rich history, stunning landscapes and luxurious holiday rental homes by Pure France. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in this hidden gem of the Lot-et-Garonne department.
Dinan, located about 30 km from Saint-Malo, is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Brittany. With its cobbled streets, two-bedroom houses and well-preserved ramparts, Dinan offers a journey through time that will seduce lovers of history and authentic charm. Here is an overview of the treasures that this enchanting city has to offer.
The Pyrénées-Orientales are full of more unique places, with hikes and national parks unique in France. The Cirque de Gavarnie, a jewel of the national pac of the Hautes Pyrénées. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in the “Pyrénées Mont Perdu”, Lake d'Oo, Pic de Soularac, the Marcadou Valley...
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is a jewel of the Périgord Noir, in the heart of the Dordogne. This village is ranked among the most beautiful in France, and dominates by its imposing medieval castle. Discover the historical, cultural and natural riches of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle.
Near Bordeaux, you will find Maison Corbière, a charming and completely renovated small town house that can accommodate up to 6 people with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This property is located at the gates of Libourne in Gironde, with all the amenities of Libourne nearby but also Bordeaux.
The Château des Fleurs dates from the 13th century, it was carefully renovated while preserving the charm of its original elements. This 3-level accommodation can accommodate up to 6 people with its 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.
The Pont du Gard is one of the most impressive and best preserved Roman monuments in France. Located in Occitania, near Nimes and Uzès, the Pont du Gard attracts thousands of visitors every year. Immerse yourself with us in the fascinating history and natural beauty of this iconic site.
20 minutes from Narbonne, discover the hamlet of Somail, built on the Canal du Midi. One can only be charmed by the architectural ensemble classified as historic monuments and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will appreciate the calm of a stroll on the Canal or simply sit down at the table at one of the restaurants after having taken advantage of one of the unusual visits where you will learn
At the foot of the French Alps, you will find Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps", this city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and history. Annecy is a very beautiful town which offers breathtaking views, well known for its lake, which is considered one of the purest in Europe. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this lake offers a multitude of water activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and sailing. For hiking enthusiasts, the trails around the lake and on the surrounding peaks offer breathtaking panoramic views.
Maison Valière is located between Narbonne and Lézignan-Corbières, 50 minutes from Carcassonne. You will find the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a restaurant accessible just 5 minutes away. Maison Valière can accommodate up to 8 beds, with its 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
On the edge of Magalas, Maison Campredon is a beautiful contemporary villa located in a residential area among the Languedoc vineyards, with all amenities within a 10-minute walk (or three minutes by car). Mediterranean beaches 35 minutes away.
The charming municipality of Duras in Lot-et-Garonne is an unknown treasure in the South West of France. With its rich historical heritage, picturesque landscapes and wine fame, Duras offers an authentic and memorable experience to its visitors.
Contact our
reservations team
