There’s something special about village life, isn’t there? Especially in France, where everyone says ‘Bonjour’ to passers-by and the lifestyle is oh-so-chilled.

If you like the sound of that and are searching for somewhere to call home in a luxury setting, don’t fret – you’ve come to the right place.

Today we’ll introduce you to five of the most desirable places to buy property in the French Riviera.

 

1. Gordes, Vaucluse

Perched on the southern edge of the high Plateau de Vaucluse, Gordes is one of the most well-known and visited hilltop villages on the French Riviera. Its narrow, winding streets, filled with boutiques and cafes, are an absolute charm. Gordes offers a refined lifestyle, historical stone buildings, panoramic views, and proximity to the lavender fields of Provence. The village is also home to the historic Château de Gordes. The average property price in Gordes ranges from €800,000 to over €2 million for luxury villas with views over the Luberon.

 

2. Lourmarin, Provence

Lourmarin is often named in the ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ list and is located in the heart of the Luberon Regional Nature Park. Its enchanting streets, rich cultural life, and the Renaissance chateau make it a delightful place to live. The village also boasts a lively weekly market and numerous cafes and restaurants. The average property price in Lourmarin ranges between €500,000 and €1 million, which is quite low for the French Riviera.

3. Mougins

Just minutes from Cannes lies the beautiful, medieval village of Mougins. A haven for those who enjoy the finer things in life, Mougins is known for its gastronomy and art. It offers a serene, high-end lifestyle surrounded by areas of breathtaking natural beauty. The village is home to more than 40 art galleries, as well as numerous luxury boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants. The average property price in Mougins is around €1.5 million but can go up to several million euros for luxury estates overlooking the French Riviera.

 

4. Antibes

Antibes is a Mediterranean resort town located on the French Riviera between Nice and Cannes. Known for its old town enclosed by 16th-century ramparts, the Fort Carré, marina, and the Picasso Museum. Antibes offers a luxurious lifestyle with a mix of history, culture, and beach life. The real estate market in Antibes is dynamic with an average property price of around €5,000 per square meter, though luxury waterfront properties can command much higher prices.

 

5. Menerbes

Situated in the Luberon region, Menerbes is known for its vineyards and truffle oaks. The village gained fame after Peter Mayle’s book “A Year in Provence” and has since become a popular destination for wealthy international buyers seeking a tranquil and refined Provencal lifestyle on the French Riviera. The village is home to several notable historic sites, including the 14th-century Saint-Luc chapel and the Citadelle, a Renaissance castle. The average property price in Menerbes ranges from €500,000 to over €2 million for luxury properties.

 

If you are considering an overseas property purchase, whether for lifestyle or investment, opening a no-obligation account with FCA-authorised Smart Currency Exchange will enable you to benefit from their competitive exchange rates and specialist currency knowledge, ultimately saving you money and time. For more information, visit the Currency Zone.

Download the France Buying Guide for help every step of the way

Written by PropertyGuides for Rightmove