SOUTH WEST FRANCE

Originally specialising in self-catered holiday rentals in the South West of France, we now offer a carefully selected portfolio of holiday homes across the Dordogne, Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne, Tarn-et-Garonne, Gers and Béarn. We are also proud to work with a number of specialist holiday companies, yoga and retreat providers, allowing us to offer holidays with an added dimension, whether that be yoga, sporting activities, painting workshops or wellbeing retreats.

The South West of France truly has it all. Once part of the English Empire during the Middle Ages, its towns and villages have been shaped by centuries of history, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of castles, bastide towns, vineyards and beautiful architecture. Today, it remains one of France’s most sought-after holiday destinations, attracting visitors looking for authentic French experiences, spectacular scenery and exceptional food.

The region enjoys over 2,200 hours of sunshine each year, giving it a climate similar to the Mediterranean. Spring arrives early, summers are long and warm, and the sunshine often continues well into September and October, creating the perfect conditions for vineyards, orchards and outdoor living. Food and wine are central to life here, with colourful weekly markets, welcoming vineyards, traditional restaurants and local producers offering visitors a genuine taste of South West France.

Whether you’re searching for a peaceful countryside retreat, a luxury villa with a pool, a family-friendly gîte or a character-filled château, South West France offers something for everyone.

Dordogne

The Dordogne is one of the most popular destinations for holiday rentals in South West France, renowned for its picturesque river valleys, medieval villages and remarkable history. The region is home to some of France’s most beautiful villages, including Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac and Domme, alongside the bustling market town of Sarlat-la-Canéda.

Top places to visit

• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Lascaux IV International Centre for Cave Art
• Beynac Castle
• Castelnaud Castle
• The Dordogne River by canoe
• The Gardens of Marqueyssac
• The beautiful villages of Domme and La Roque-Gageac

The Dordogne is famous for its exceptional gastronomy, with black truffles, walnuts, duck confit, foie gras, strawberries and locally produced wines appearing on menus throughout the region. Weekly markets provide an authentic insight into local life and remain one of the highlights of any holiday.

Gironde

Home to the world-famous city of Bordeaux and some of France’s most prestigious vineyards, Gironde combines elegant city breaks with Atlantic beaches, charming villages and renowned wine estates. It is the largest department in mainland France and offers an incredible variety of landscapes.

Top places to visit

• Bordeaux UNESCO World Heritage city
• Saint-Émilion
• Arcachon Bay
• Dune du Pilat
• Médoc Wine Route
• Cap Ferret
• The Atlantic coast beaches

Wine naturally plays a central role in Gironde’s culture, but visitors can also enjoy outstanding seafood, fresh oysters from Arcachon Bay, cannelés, artisan cheeses and excellent local produce. Throughout the year, wine festivals and food markets celebrate the region’s culinary heritage.

Lot-et-Garonne

Often described as the orchard of France, Lot-et-Garonne is a peaceful rural destination known for rolling countryside, sunflower fields, plum orchards and beautiful bastide towns. It offers a slower pace of life and is ideal for families looking to experience authentic France away from the busiest tourist areas.

Top places to visit

• Monflanquin
• Pujols
• Villeneuve-sur-Lot
• Nérac
• Walibi Sud-Ouest
• Canal de Garonne cycling routes
• Château de Bonaguil

The region is famous for Agen prunes, tomatoes, hazelnuts, strawberries and delicious local wines. Traditional markets, riverside cafés and summer festivals create a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere throughout the year.

Tarn-et-Garonne

Tarn-et-Garonne offers a wonderful mix of dramatic river valleys, medieval villages and vibrant market towns. Rich in history and surrounded by unspoilt countryside, it is an excellent destination for walkers, cyclists and anyone seeking a more authentic French holiday.

Top places to visit

• Montauban
• Bruniquel
• Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val
• Auvillar
• Gorges de l’Aveyron
• Moissac Abbey
• Canal des Deux Mers

The local cuisine reflects the best of South West France, with duck dishes, saffron, melons, artisan cheeses, walnuts and seasonal produce all featuring prominently. Summer night markets and village festivals provide an excellent opportunity to experience the area’s welcoming culture.

Gers

Gers is the heart of rural Gascony, famous for its gently rolling countryside, picturesque stone villages and relaxed pace of life. It remains one of the least crowded parts of South West France, making it perfect for visitors looking to escape and unwind.

Top places to visit

• Auch
• Condom
• Fourcès
• Larressingle
• Marciac
• Flaran Abbey
• The Armagnac Route

Food lovers will be in heaven, with Armagnac brandy, foie gras, duck, garlic, Gascon beef and artisan cheeses all produced locally. Weekly markets, music festivals, particularly the internationally renowned Marciac Jazz Festival, and village fêtes showcase the region’s rich traditions and hospitality.

Béarn

Nestled between the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees, Béarn offers a unique combination of mountain scenery, historic towns and beautiful countryside. It is an excellent base for both outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.

Top places to visit

• Pau
• Château de Pau
• Oloron-Sainte-Marie
• The Pyrenees National Park
• The Ossau Valley
• Salies-de-Béarn
• Mountain walking and cycling routes

Béarn has a proud cultural identity, reflected in its traditional festivals, music and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local specialities including Ossau-Iraty cheese, Bayonne ham, trout, mountain honey and Jurançon wines, all served in welcoming restaurants and village auberges.

Discover Your Perfect Holiday in South West France

From the prehistoric caves of the Dordogne to the vineyards of Gironde, the orchards of Lot-et-Garonne, the medieval villages of Tarn-et-Garonne, the Gascon charm of the Gers and the stunning mountain landscapes of Béarn, every corner of South West France has its own unique character.

At Simply Aquitaine, we carefully hand-pick exceptional holiday rentals throughout these beautiful regions, helping you discover authentic French holidays in outstanding locations. Whether you’re looking for a luxury villa with a private pool, a traditional farmhouse, a château or a family-friendly holiday home, you’ll find the perfect base for exploring everything South West France has to offer.