The allure of the South of France: Why it is a top holiday home destination

The South of France, with its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, historic villages, and lively culture, is one of our most requested holiday home destinations. Specifically the Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, and Provence attract travellers and second-home buyers from around the world. Here is why the South of France stands out as a highly requested vacation home location for so many.

Year-round moderate climate

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the South of France offers one of Europe’s mildest climates, making it an ideal spot for year-round vacations. Warm summers draw beach lovers to the Riviera’s golden sands, while the mild winters make exploring Provence’s charming towns and vineyards a delight. Even in spring and autumn, the pleasant weather means you can enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

Easy accessibility

The South of France is one of Europe’s most accessible regions. Major airports, including Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and Marseille Provence Airport, offer direct flights to global hubs. TGV high-speed trains make it easy to reach the South of France from Paris in under three hours. Once you arrive, an efficient network of trains and buses connect travellers to popular destinations like Cannes, Nice, Aix-en-Provence, and Saint-Tropez, making local travel convenient and accessible.

Variety of attractions and activities

The South of France offers a captivating mix of attractions to suit all tastes. History lovers can explore ancient sites like the Roman amphitheatre in Nîmes and the captivating Pont du Gard aqueduct. Art enthusiasts can follow Van Gogh’s footsteps in Arles or admire contemporary art at the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. For outdoor adventurers, the Les Alpilles Massif and the Gorges du Verdon (the Grand Canyon of Europe) offer a wonderful range of trails and activities. For food and wine lovers, Provence’s vineyards and olive groves provide a plethora of local flavours, including renowned rosé wines and fresh-pressed olive oils.

Stunning beaches

The South of France is known for its diversity of beaches, each with its unique appeal:

– Côte d’Azur beaches: The French Riviera is home to iconic beaches like Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, La Garoupe in Antibes, and Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. These beaches offer a mix of sandy shores, clear waters, and high-end beach clubs.

– Beaches of Marseille and Cassis: South of Provence, these beaches are celebrated for their impressive limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The hidden coves of Calanques National Park are a favourite for adventurous beachgoers who can reach them by boat or hiking.

– Camargue coast: The Camargue region offers a quieter beach experience, with stretches like Plage de l’Espiguette in Grau-du-Roi, known for natural beauty, salt flats, and wildlife. 

– Languedoc coast: Near Montpellier, beaches like Plage de Carnon and La Grande Motte are family-friendly, with calm waters and broad sandy shores.

Thriving expat communities

The South of France has long been a favoured destination for digital nomads and expats due to its warm climate, welcoming culture, and vibrant lifestyle. English-speaking communities are common, especially in cities like Nice, Antibes, and Aix-en-Provence, where digital nomads and expats enjoy a blend of French and international influences. Many expats also settle in the smaller Provençal villages, drawn by the peaceful pace of life and the stunning natural surroundings. International schools, digital nomad communities, expat organisations, and social clubs make it easy for families, professionals, and retirees to transition smoothly into the region’s lifestyle.

The most sought-after towns

Whether you’re looking for the excitement of a coastal city or the tranquillity of a Provençal village, the South of France offers many desirable locations for a second home. Some of the most sought-after destinations (in alphabetical order) are:

– Aix-en-Provence: Renowned for its artistic heritage, Aix features charming markets, historical sites, and thermal baths, perfect for a refined, slower-paced lifestyle.

– Antibes: Close to Nice but with a small-town charm, Antibes attracts families and retirees with its picturesque old town and relaxed pace.

– Cannes: Renowned for its international film festival, Cannes exudes sophistication and elegance. With its iconic Croisette promenade, high-end boutiques, and pristine beaches, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking a mix of culture, class and coastal living.

– Cassis: Nestled near the Calanques, Cassis is ideal for nature lovers who appreciate Mediterranean coastal beauty within a village atmosphere.

– Châteauneuf-Grasse: Located near Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, Châteauneuf-Grasse is a beautiful village with scenic landscapes, olive groves, and easy access to both the Alps and the Riviera.

– Gordes and Ménerbes: These hilltop villages in the Luberon Valley offer an authentic Provençal lifestyle with stunning views, olive groves, and lavender fields. 

– Maussane-les-Alpilles: Nestled in the heart of Provence’s Les Alpilles Massif, Maussane offers a serene, traditional Provençal lifestyle. 

– Mougins: Known for its artistic community, Mougins is near Cannes and a perfect choice for those seeking proximity to the Riviera’s festivals and events.

– Nice: Known for its vibrant culture and international appeal, Nice combines city life with beachfront access and excellent connections, including Nice Côte d’Azur Airport.

– Saint-Tropez: Famous for its glamorous reputation, Saint-Tropez offers an exclusive, high-end lifestyle with access to stunning beaches, upscale dining, and boutique shopping.

– Saumane-de-Vaucluse: Known for its perched position and medieval charm, Saumane-de-Vaucluse is a beautiful retreat surrounded by the rolling hills of Provence. 

– Théoule-sur-Mer: Located along the Mediterranean, Théoule-sur-Mer is a quiet coastal village near Cannes, offering stunning sea views, hidden coves. 

– Vence: Set in the hills above the French Riviera, Vence is celebrated for its art scene, medieval streets, and panoramic views.

View our selection of beautiful holiday homes in the South of France here.

The South of France is a dream destination that draws visitors and second-home seekers back year after year. With Lazazu, you can enjoy the very best of this iconic region in the comfort of your own holiday home—without the hassle of sole ownership. Contact our team to learn how you can co-own a beautiful property in the alluring South of France and make this spectacular region your second home.

Discover more about Lazazu:

How Lazazu co-ownership works | Frequently asked questions about shared holiday homes | The benefits of fractional ownership | Browse Lazazu’s selection of second homes | The difference between timeshare and co-ownership