From Vineyards to Villas: Exploring France’s Luxury Property Types

Prestige property
Written by Judith Whitlow , Tuesday, 08 October 2024
 

 

Chateau and vineyard for sale in St Emilion, France

France’s diverse regions offer a stunning array of luxury properties, each with its unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re captivated by the grandeur of a chateau, the romance of a vineyard, or the modern elegance of a villa, the regions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, Poitou-Charentes, and Provence provide exceptional opportunities to find your dream home. You’ll find all types of property in most areas but some departments and regions have the monopoly on certain styles.  Here’s our pick of where to start a search

 

Chateaux: Timeless Elegance in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

From the south of the Loire down to the Pyrénées, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, with its rolling landscapes and rich history, is a treasure trove for those seeking a chateau. These grand estates often date back centuries, offering a glimpse into France’s aristocratic past. The Dordogne area, known for its mediaeval towns and lush valleys, is particularly renowned for its chateaux. Imagine owning a stately property with its stone towers, manicured gardens, and views over the verdant countryside. Inside it could be full of original features such as massive carved fireplaces, sweeping stone staircases, flagstone floors and massive beams. Properties like these are not just homes; they are a piece of history, often dating back as far as the 12th century and offering a luxurious lifestyle steeped in tradition and elegance.

 

Vineyards: The Heart of French Winemaking in Occitanie

Think French wine and you might think Burgundy or Bordeaux but for wine enthusiasts, Occitanie is an ideal region to explore vineyard properties. This sun-soaked area, which includes the Languedoc-Roussillon, is one of the largest wine-producing regions in France but less known on the international market. Top quality wines are produced here and rosés, in particular, are star performers. 

Owning a vineyard here can mean a few hundred square metres of ‘hobby vines’ where a local company comes in, picks the grapes and you get a number of bottles back in return. Or it can mean several hectares of vines and all the equipment needed to go from grape to glass.  Buying a vineyard of this scale will often mean retaining the existing, experienced team to run and manage it on your behalf.  Working alongside Savills expert viticole team, we are in a position to offer advice on any scale of vineyard purchase.

Vineyard ownership is about more than just producing wine; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that celebrates the art of winemaking. Picture yourself at a vineyard estate near Carcassonne, surrounded by endless rows of vines, where you can have a hand in crafting your own wine while enjoying the rustic beauty of the landscape. Properties in Occitanie often combine traditional charm with modern comforts, making them perfect for those who appreciate both history and contemporary luxury.

 

Villas: Mediterranean Luxury in Provence

Provence, with its stunning natural beauty and year-round mild climate, is synonymous with luxury living. Picture a villa in Provence and you’re likely imagining the lavender fields of the Luberon or a coastal backdrop near the Mediterranean. Whether your taste is for the more modern properties, designed with all modern comforts, or the more rustic traditional styles, is it easy to imagine life in a villa in the heart of Provence, with expansive terraces, an infinity pool, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and vineyards.   

Villas in this region offer an unparalleled lifestyle of elegance and relaxation and there are still hidden corners and ‘best-kept secret’ destinations that offer surprising value for money coupled with cachet.

 

Rural Retreats: Quiet Charm in Poitou-Charentes

For those seeking a rural and tranquil lifestyle, Poitou-Charentes offers charming properties that exude authenticity. This region, with its rolling green landscapes and quiet villages, is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and engage themselves in a true French experience. Here, you can find beautifully restored farmhouses and cottages, surrounded by fields of sunflowers and vineyards. A stone farmhouse in the Vienne or Charente, with its rustic beams and cosy fireplaces, offers a warm and inviting retreat. Getting here and getting away is a breeze; the area is well served by international airports and excellent road links. Anyone looking for a rental investment would do well to search in this endlessly popular area.



Your Dream Property Awaits

Each region of south west France provides a unique lifestyle, allowing you to find the perfect home that matches your vision of luxury living.

At Beaux Villages Prestige, we are dedicated to helping you discover the finest properties in these regions. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you find a home that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations. Want to discuss your property plans?  We’re listening!


 

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