Back to basics: sleep in France’s most beautiful country homes

Happiness is in the meadow: to achieve it, here are some of France’s most beautiful country residences to rent for a country break.

Tired of pollution, traffic jams and the trials and tribulations of urban life? Living in the countryside has many advantages: it’s easier to live in the great outdoors! Birdsong, lush green landscapes and fresh air all contribute to a welcome respite.

If you, too, are craving the great outdoors, escape for the time of your life to a charming, authentic and comfortable home.

We’ve thought of you and chosen some of the most beautiful farms turned luxury residences in France. We’ll let you choose the one that best suits your country holiday. Who knows, maybe you’ll book it soon?

1. Splendid Vauclusian sheepfold

It’s in the Luberon massif (pronounced « Lu-beu-ron ») that we meet you in front of this carefully restored authentic sheepfold. It has long since been closed to animals, but can now accommodate twelve people in its four bedrooms. The view over the surrounding vineyards is incredible.

Here, the charm of the old stonework is just what you need for a drink by the pool. Prefer the charms of southern Vaucluse in winter? A fireplace will be the gathering point for the whole tribe. You’ll have easy access to the region’s sumptuous listed villages. Goult, Gordes or Lacoste (dear to Pierre Cardin) are all great family outings.

2. Superb mas provençal

Still in the Vaucluse, but this time in the small village of Robion, we invite you to explore this typical mas. Seven rooms for fourteen guests: who are you going to take on your journey? Carefully decorated, with immaculate walls, the atmosphere is one of relaxation. The huge kitchen is ideal for preparing a succulent meal. Enjoy it by the pool or in the heart of the superb garden.

The local markets (the one in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue on Sundays is a real marvel) will delight you with their authenticity. Don’t forget that the recently opened cycle path linking Cavaillon to Apt passes just below this house surrounded by olive trees. You’ll be able to ride it at your leisure in summer and winter alike. We recommend spring, to immortalize fields of lavender and poppies. Splendid!

3. Exceptional accommodation with a view

This duplex measures 60 m²: more than enough space to accommodate six people in excellent conditions. Bright and fully equipped, it opens onto a large garden, a courtyard and a panoramic veranda. Lovers of aperitifs with friends will appreciate the bar area. Children will love the indoor swimming pool.

In the heart of a farming estate, dogs, cats, goats, donkeys and more will keep you company. You may even come across a few curious deer. Located near Bourges and Châteauroux, in the Cher department, the gardens of the Notre-Dame d’Orsan priory can be admired. The châteaux of Meillant and Sarzay, and the George Sand museum, complete the range of cultural activities on offer.

4. Gigantic vineyard dwelling

Between Cucuron and La Tour d’Aigues, the small village of Sannes welcomes you to this superb residence. We’re back in the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon. Designed for a dozen travelers, it has five bedrooms and is set in the middle of a vineyard estate. Combining the prestige of the old with the comfort of the new, it boasts a vast heated swimming pool and an area totalling… 210 m².

This all-you-can-eat bubble, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, is within easy reach of the villages of Lourmarin and Roussillon. The latter is internationally famous for its « Colorado Provençal », spectacular landscapes of glowing ochre. There’s also a pétanque court where you can challenge each other over a glass of local rosé. Who will win the game?

5. La Ferme de Haute Forêt

This splendid self-catering cottage is located in the heart of the Loir valley, in Villedieu-le-Château. In this picturesque farming region nicknamed « la Gâtine tourangelle », you’ll take possession of a renovated old farmhouse for six travelers. So cozy, you’ll almost never want to leave this warm living space with its three bedrooms.

Yet there are many extraordinary sights to see in this typically French rural region. Fortified castles, troglodytic dwellings, richly frescoed churches and Renaissance houses are just some of the splendors of the local heritage. Wine enthusiasts will be keen to visit the adjoining vineyards. They produce a succulent rosé with a hint of raspberry… Cheers!

6. Magnificent Norman villa

A swimming pool in Normandy? All right, but heated! This pretty villa for six in the heart of this northern region has just that. It occupies 70 m² in the heart of a 1,500 m² park, which can be admired through beautiful bay windows. Here, relaxation is the order of the day for families, couples or friends. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on an excursion into the Normandy bocage.

Our advice? Get on a mountain bike for a pleasant hike near Vassy, explore the Saint-Sever forest or taste some great cider. That’s right, it’s a local specialty… And as an added bonus, children can sample the freshly squeezed, alcohol-free juice. A real treat, to share with your loved ones as soon as you get home.

7. Renovated barn in Auvergne

An authentic Auvergne barn for ten people will gladly complete our list of France’s most beautiful country homes. It’s located in the pretty village of Ceyssat, very close to Clermont-Ferrand and the Parc des Volcans d’Auvergne. It can accommodate up to ten guests, who can admire the incredible view of the Puy-de-Dôme.

Of course, mountain biking and hiking here are a must for nature lovers. However, we recommend that you and your family take advantage of the exciting Vulcania theme park. Its interactive workshops and exhibits will tell you all about the volcanoes that once ruled the area. Don’t worry: in the 21st century, they’re all extinct…