THE SEASON AHEAD
South West France is still basking in the summer sunshine, but they do things differently here. It’s not generally a place of superyachts and glamourous beach clubs. Pleasures here are more grounded, and often linked to the land and sea. There are fresh oysters to feast on in Cap Ferret, followed by walks along wild beaches edged by pine forests. Inland, you can go kayaking along the Dordogne or browse markets laden with peaches, figs, and delicious cheeses.
The appeal of South West France does not fade with the end of summer. In autumn, the region’s cultural treasures can be enjoyed at a different pace. I love wandering through medieval Carcassonne when the summer crowds have thinned out. It really does feel like stepping back in time, into another world. Saint-Émilion is also wonderful at this time of year. The vineyards glow in the autumn light and the wine harvest brings an exciting burst of activity. The food changes with the season too. Truffles and chestnuts add rich new flavours to restaurant menus. Back in Carcassonne, one of the spiritual homes of cassoulet, this velvety bean stew feels even more inviting as winter draws closer.
Victoria –July 2026
WHERE & WHEN
Where are the best areas for villa rentals in South West France?
The region of South West France is vast and diverse, which brings you plenty of choice for a villa stay. On the far west coast, beachfront villas around Cap Ferret and the Bay of Arcachon deliver an authentically French coastal experience for those in the know. Travelling inland, Bordeaux vineyard villas will delight wine lovers, as well as those seeking serenity in nature. We particularly recommend those located around beautiful Saint Emilion.
The Dordogne also offers secluded countryside villas and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life. Here, pristine gorges and pretty riverside villages take centre stage. Travelling south towards the Mediterranean, luxurious rural hideaways located close to Carcassonne present the opportunity to delve into the region’s rich and multi-layered history and cuisine. Finally, as you get closer to the Mediterranean coast itself, a villa rental near Perpignan provides access to the foothills of the Pyrenees and lovely sheltered beaches within easy reach.
When is the best time to visit South West France?
Given the cultural attractions of South West France, this really is a place that can be visited year-round. You can explore the region’s picturesque towns, villages, and resplendent chateaux at any time of year, as well as enjoying fabulous seasonal cuisine.
If you are hoping to spend most of your time outside, we recommend renting a villa between May and September. In May, the weather is getting drier and warmer, with temperatures reaching 20 – 22C (68 – 71F) on average. This is a particularly good time for enjoying activities such as hiking in the foothills of the Pyrenees, kayaking in the Dordogne, or exploring historic sites such as Carcassonne without the peak summer crowds. June provides all of this and more, with the increasing temperatures making visits to the beach and outdoor dining even more and enjoyable.
July and August are the most popular times to visit South West France, particularly if you are looking to spend time on the beach. Expect long sunny days, and average temperatures of 28C (82F), sometimes higher. Even though there are more visitors at this time, a luxury villa rental will ensure if you have complete peace and privacy.
With the approach of September, you can bask in South West France in all its glory – but with fewer visitors. Temperatures sit at around 24C (75F), and the sea is perfect for swimming. The start of the wine harvest adds another special dimension to autumn visits to the region.
