Why Brits Love Holidaying in France (and Renting Their Own Holiday Homes)

When British travellers dream of the perfect getaway, France often comes to mind. From the sunny Mediterranean coastline to peaceful countryside villages, France offers everything: great weather, rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and unbeatable food and wine.

But there’s another reason why France continues to attract UK holidaymakers year after year—the growing popularity of holiday rentals in France. Whether it’s a rustic stone cottage, a beachside apartment, or one of many luxury villas with pools, the self-catering lifestyle is an experience more and more Brits are falling in love with.

Let’s explore why France—and staying in your own space—continues to be the holiday dream for so many.

Easy Travel from the UK

One of France’s biggest draws is how easy it is to get there. The country is accessible by plane, ferry, Eurostar, or Eurotunnel, making it ideal for families, retirees, and couples alike.

Many British holidaymakers choose to drive, especially if they’re booking holiday homes in France in quieter rural areas. Driving gives travellers the flexibility to explore local villages, markets, and attractions without the hassle of car hire or public transport.

A Country That Has It All

Few countries offer as much variety as France. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, a mountain adventure, a wine tour, or a romantic countryside escape, France delivers.

Popular regions include:

• Normandy and Brittany for coastal charm and history

• The Dordogne and Loire Valley for rivers, castles, and vineyards

• Provence and the French Riviera for sunshine, lavender fields, and sea views

• The French Alps and Pyrenees for skiing and hiking

• Paris, Bordeaux, and Lyon for city breaks, museums, and gourmet dining

It’s this wide range of experiences that makes France ideal for first-time visitors and returning holidaymakers alike.

The Rise of Self-Catering Holidays

More and more British travellers are turning away from hotels in favour of holiday rentals in France, and it’s easy to see why.

Complete Freedom

Unlike hotels, holiday homes in France offer complete flexibility. You can wake up when you like, eat when you’re hungry, and spend your days doing exactly what you want. There’s no schedule, no crowds, and no compromises.

More Space and Comfort

From couples booking cosy cottages for rental in France to families choosing spacious luxury villas with pools, self-catering accommodation typically provides:

• Multiple bedrooms

• Fully equipped kitchens

• Gardens, terraces, or private outdoor spaces

• Often, amenities like pools, barbecues, and parking

This makes it perfect for families with children, groups of friends, or couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

Excellent Value

For longer stays or group holidays, self-catering usually works out far more cost-effective than hotels. You can shop at local markets, cook your own meals, and avoid restaurant bills every night. And with so many holiday rentals in France available, it’s easy to find one that suits your budget.

Food, Wine, and Market Culture

One of the top reasons Brits fall in love with France is the food. Whether you’re picking up fresh baguettes from the boulangerie, tasting local cheeses, or sipping wine on a sunlit terrace, the French lifestyle revolves around good eating.

Holiday homes in France give you the freedom to fully enjoy this culinary experience:

• Shop at local farmers’ markets for seasonal produce

• Cook with regional ingredients in your own kitchen

• Enjoy meals outdoors with a view

• Visit vineyards, food festivals, or wine tastings nearby

If you stay in a hotel, you miss out on the joy of daily shopping, meal prep, and dining at your own pace.

Outdoor Living and Private Pools

Thanks to its generally mild climate, especially in the south, France is perfect for outdoor living. Many holiday rentals in France feature terraces, gardens, or swimming pools—letting you truly make the most of your surroundings.

There’s something magical about:

• Reading a book under the shade of an olive tree

• Having breakfast on the terrace with a view of the countryside

• Cooling off in the pool after a warm afternoon

In particular, luxury villas with pools are a favourite choice for British families and groups looking to relax in style and privacy.

Perfect for Families and Pet Owners

Another reason why self-catering is so popular? It suits every kind of traveller.

• Families appreciate having separate bedrooms, space for the kids, and the ability to cook familiar meals

• Pet owners love being able to bring their dogs, especially to cottages for rental in France with enclosed gardens or access to walks

• Retirees often choose extended stays, enjoying the relaxed pace and affordable living

Hotels can’t match the flexibility, space, and sense of “home” that a well-appointed holiday rental provides.

A Familiar Yet Refreshing Experience

There’s a cultural connection between Britain and France that makes French holidays feel both exciting and familiar. Many Brits already have basic French language skills, and most tourist areas are used to hosting English-speaking visitors.

There’s also a sense of comfort in:

• Recognising the food and wine on offer

• Knowing how to navigate shops and towns

• Appreciating the shared European traditions and history

This makes France a very approachable option—even for travellers who aren’t seasoned globetrotters.

Culture, History, and Things to Do

Wherever you stay in France, you’re never far from something fascinating to discover.

• Explore ancient castles, Roman ruins, or medieval villages

• Visit world-class museums and art galleries

• Discover historic churches, vineyards, and UNESCO sites

• Attend local fêtes, wine festivals, and village markets

With your own base at a self-catering rental, you can explore at your own pace—without the pressure of group tours or timetables.

A Year-Round Destination

Unlike some destinations that rely solely on summer sun, France is a country you can visit in every season.

• Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists

• Summer is perfect for outdoor living, swimming, and markets

• Winter brings snow sports in the Alps and cosy evenings in fire-lit cottages

Many holiday homes in France are well-equipped for all weather, making them a great choice whether you’re chasing sunshine or enjoying crisp mountain air.

Remote Work and Extended Breaks

With more people working remotely than ever, France has become a popular destination for long stays and work-life balance. Many holiday rentals in France now come with fast internet and designated workspaces, making it easy to combine business with leisure.

Imagine working from a peaceful country house in the Dordogne or logging in with a sea view from a coastal villa. For those with flexible schedules, it’s an appealing option.

Your Holiday, Your Way

At the heart of it all is one simple truth: when you book your own place, your holiday is truly yours.

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family celebration, or a quiet week of wine and books, there’s a perfect match among the wide selection of cottages for rental in France, luxury villas with pools, or countryside retreats.

And that’s what keeps Brits coming back—holiday after holiday.

Final Thoughts

France offers a unique combination of convenience, charm, and culture that makes it one of the UK’s most loved travel destinations. Add in the comfort, space, and freedom of holiday homes in France, and it’s easy to understand the growing trend toward self-catering breaks.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet cottage, a modern apartment, or a luxurious villa, holiday rentals in France offer something for everyone—at every budget, in every season, and for every kind of holiday.

Looking for inspiration for your next trip? Explore our handpicked collection of cottages for rental in France, holiday homes near vineyards, or luxury villas with pools and start planning your perfect French escape today.