The 'Snow-Bird' market for winter rentals in France is very bouyant at the moment. More and more people are choosing to emigrate from Northen Europe, Canada and North America to enjoy the winter sun in Dordogne and the South of France for 3-6 month winter lets. At Long term rentals in France we have established a reputation as the leading provider of long winter lets in South France. One reason for this is that we visit all of our long winter lets personally to capture more information about the layout of the house, the facilities and the locality. Another reason is that we live permanently in the South of France and we have amassed a great deal of local knowledge about the different regions and areas. We have also rented long term in France ourselves, so we are also able to provide first-hand advice.

Long winter lets, France

The idea of taking a long sabbatical in France, was probably first popularised by Peter Mayall and his book "A Year in Provence". But before Mayall, there were others such as the cookery writer Elizabeth David ("French Provincial Cooking") and the Treasure Island author, Robert Louis Stephenson ("Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes"). All were seeking to discover the secret of the rural French way of life.

In our experience, there are many reasons why people are still coming to the South of France in search of long winter lets. France has retained its appeal for second holiday home buyers. More foreigners buy second homes in France than any other European country, eclipsing even Spain. Property remains cheaper in the South of France than other parts of Northern Europe. There is also a plentiful supply of character properties, as well as do-me-ups. The climate and gastronomy of the region also continues to offer something unique. There is no better way to find the perfect property than to live in the area and experience the climate and culture. Living in the area can also help you find out those areas and properties which may be perfect for a holiday vacations, but may not be suitable for long stays throughout the winter.

Winter lets, France, for a year out

Escaping from the rat-race and taking a 'year out' with your family is also a popular reason why a number of our customers are looking for winter lets in France. This was certainly our initial reason for moving to France. Encouraged by watching television programmes such as 'French Leave' starring the chef John Burton-Rice and his family and other similar programmes (there was one about a wine-maker in the Pyrenees and an Actor living in the Ardeche), we decided to give it all up and come out for a year. It was certainly an enriching experience and you do grow closer as a family and you find out a lot about yourself.

There is also the 'enjoyable miscomfort' of immersing yourself in a different culture and way of life. Life in the South of France is slower and based around the outdoors (or rather a table outdoors under a pergola). However, it is not always easy to earn a good living locally and your the first priority we tell all of our customers is to spend time and money on improving your 'street French'.

Winter lets, France - the climate

Also the idea of taking a property for winter lets in France in order to escape the miserable weather of Northern Europe or North America, also has some appeal. The climate in the South of France remains pleasant from April through to October (although we do usually get some storms in October).

During November and December it does begin to turn cold (5-13^oC during the day) and the nights can sometimes dip below freezing, especially up in the mountains. The silver lining however is that during the day, you get lovely clear blue skies and sunshine.

January and February can be wetter than December, but the days do start to become longer. One word of warning though, is the wind. If you are located in the Tramontane region (Perpignan up to Narbonne and across to Carcassonne) or in the Mistral region (Provence), then the strong winter winds can make life uncomfortable. Villages literally batten down the hatches when the wind starts to blow and everybody stays indoors. So if you are on the search for properties for long winter lets in France, then just keep an eye out for the number of windmills dotted about the surrounding hills as this is usually a good indication of the strength of the winter winds. Areas such as around Pezenas, and up towards Montpellier in the Languedoc, usually escape quite lightly.

We have listed below some examples of the types of long winter lets in France, currently available on Long term rentals in France. The full range of winter lets in France can be found here: long winter lets France.

1. Meze apartment for long term winter lets South of France (Ref: 144)

This lovely one bedroom waterfront apartment in Meze, South France is available for a long term winter lets between September to June each year. The apartment is located in the coastal town of Meze, which is South of Montpellier. Meze is famous for its Oysters and Mussels, which are grown in the Etang du Thau salt water lagoon. It is also a popular centre for water sports and sailing. The apartment is beautifully finished and comes with all mod cons including secure entry and elevators (suitable for the elderly or disabled). The apartment features:

• 1 bedroom
• 1 bathroom
• Large terrace with waterside views
• Ground floor location (suitable for elderly or people with restricted mobility)
• Air conditioning (reversible for heating)
• Secure underground parking
• Wifi internet and satellite TV channels

This large house to rent just north of Montpellier, is available for monthly rentals for 3-12 months. The monthly rent will depend on duration of stay.

More Info

2. St Jean de Cole 5 bed house to rent in Dordogne France Ref: 1891

A beautiful 5 bed house to rent in Dordogne, France, available for 3-6 month rentals from €1650 per month. This stone-built house sits on the edge of the river in the picturesque village of St Jean de Cole.

This stone-built house is located in the centre of the village, next to the small river. The house is laid out over 3 floors. The house is newly renovated to a high standard and comprises

• 5 bedrooms
• 3 bathrooms
• The kitchen is recently installed with new appliances and includes a 6 seater breakfast table.
• There is also a dining room table for 10 people.
• 2 living areas - one with a fireplace and one with views of the river.
• Outside there is a large terrace with beautiful views of the river and village.

This Dordogne house for long term rentals in France, also comes with a good sized garden and parking.

The property is available for long term rentals from mid-September to May.

More Info

3. Marseillan 2 bed house rent long term France by coast (Ref: 1799)

If you´re looking for a house to rent for 3-6 months, close to the coast and the beaches, then this house in Marseillan is an excellent choice. This 2 bed house for long term rent is located in the coastal town of Marseillan, South of France.

The house is laid out on 3 levels and has a sunny courtyard for eating al fresco. The house sleeps 4 people in 2 bedrooms and is within minutes of the shops, restaurants, harbour and bars of Marseillan. This long term rental property is conveniently located to explore the sites of the Languedoc region.

The house benefits from:

• Fitted kitchen
• Wood burner
• 2 bathrooms
• 2 double bedrooms
• Private garden

This Marseillan house for can be rented on a long term let basis from €750 pcm + bills between October to April.

More information

4. La République - long term rental by beach South France (Ref: 2028)

La République is a charming 2 bed village house for long term rentals set in the heart of the atmospheric coastal town of Argeles-sur-Mer. The town is located in the Southern most part of France on the Mediterranean coast, close to the Spanish border. This long term rental house is 5 mins walk from the train station and 25 mins walk from the beach (there is also a bus direct to the beach every 15 mins).

The house overlooks the beautiful old square and faces the School of Music. The house comes with a garage (for storage) and a beautiful roof top terrace where you can enjoy breakfast and sunbathe. Next door to the house there is a beautiful pavement café full of local charm and ambiance.

The property benefits from:

• 2 bedrooms
• 1 bathroom
• Sunny terrace
• Well-equipped kitchen
• Easy access to Perpignan and the coast 
• Walking distance to boulangerie & shop

Available for long term rentals between October to May from €875 per month + bills. In addition to the monthly rent, there is a €150 monthly provision towards the utility bills. Minimum stay is 3 months. Available from October 2023.

More Info

5. Riverside house for rent in Esperaza South France Ref: 2058

This quaint 2 bedroom house for rent in the beautiful village of Esperaza in Southern France, comes with 2 south-facing terraces where you can terrace where you can enjoy meals or sit quietly listening to the river flowing below. Esperaza is located close to the ancient Cathar monuments and the mysterious village of Rennes le Chateau where Dan Browne collected material for his book The da Vinci Code.

• 2 bedrooms
• 1 bathroom
• 2 Private terraces
• Free parking near the house
• Utility room with washing machine
• Lounge and dining room
• Easy walking distance to shops, bars, restaurants and the weekly market

The house is available for rent between October to June from €750 per month + bills.

More Info

6. Autignac long term house rentals Southern France (Ref: 1991)

This light and spacious 4 bed house for long term rentals in Autignac, Southern France, comes with plenty of character and is within easy walking distance of the shops and services in the village. The house has been beautifully restored and features exposed stone walls, oak beams and a charming private courtyard garden with pool.

The Mediterranean beaches are only 30 minutes away and the beautiful High Languedoc National Park is only 5 minutes away.

The house features:

• 3 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Large living room
• Central heating
• Private pool & garden
• Private parking
• Walking distance to bar and bakers

This villa in Autignac near Beziers, is available for long term rentals for 3-9 months. The monthly rental prices start at €1350 pcm + bills.

More Info

7. Marsanne long term rental near Carcassonne, France (Ref: 1746)

Marsanne long term rental property is located in a beautiful corner of South France, in between Carcassonne and the Pyrenees. The property is located on Domaine de la Flotte, a country estate situated on a wooded hillside where you can enjoy the unspoilt nature and the beautiful views of the Pyrenees mountains in the distance. If you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful long term stay in South France, then this property is a great choice. Carcassonne is 30 mins to the North and the Ski resorts in the Pyrenees are 1 hour to the South. This rental property near Carcassonne comes with:

• 2 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Well-equipped kitchen + washing machine
• Private parking
• WiFi internet
• Large grounds
• 5 mins to local town of Chalabre
• Beautiful walking country

The property is available for monthly rentals between October to May from €700 pcm + bills. Minimum stay 3 months.

More Info

8. Maison Lavande - long term rentals property South France (Ref: 2035)

Maison Lavande is a spacious long term rentals property in South France with a private pool. The property is located on the edge of a quiet wine making village, close to the historic town of Pezenas.

The house comes with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and can sleep 8 guests comfortably. Outside, there is a private garden, a lovely sun terrace and a large roof terrace with views over the local vineyards. There is private parking for several cars.

The Mediterranean beaches are just 25 mins drive. Within the village there is a cafe-bar, shop and wine cellar selling local wines. Further restaurants and shops are located in the neighbouring villages of Roujan and Gabian.

The house is ideal for a family or a couple and comes with:

• Wifi internet throughout.
• 4 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• 10 mins drive to Pezenas
• 1 min walk to shop and cafe
• Fully equipped kitchen

This lovely house near Pezenas is available for long term rentals from February 2024 for 3-6 months. The monthly rental price is €1250 per month + bills.

More information

9. Mas de Nebrouze 3 bed farmhouse for rent in France (Ref: 2176)

The Mas de Nebrouze is a 3 bed farmhouse for rent in France. The farmhouse is located the Tarn, a beautiful rural department in the centre of Southern France, above Toulouse and Carcassonne.

The farmhouse is set amongst woodlands and meadows, at the base of the Montagne Noir - a small mountain range with charming villages, markets, lakes and nature trails. The farmhouse is one of four dwellings built around a small Chateau. The nearest town is Soual, which is a 5 minute drive (3 km). Soual has a population of around 2,500 people and provides a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, a supermarket and a DIY store.

The farmhouse house is laid out over 2 floors and comes with 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, spacious living room and outdoor terraces & plenty of parking. Inside, the farmhouse house is fully furnished with a mixture of modern and antique furniture. The farmhouse is perfectly set up for winter rentals, with gas central heating, a wood burner in the living room and solar power for the hot water. There is Wi-Fi which enables remote working.

• 3 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Wood burner + central heating
• Well-equipped kitchen
• Surrounded by meadows and woodland
• 5 mins to shops, bars, restaurants and the weekly market

This farmhouse for rent in the Tarn, South France, is available for monthly rentals from €1000 per month + bills. Available between November and April.

More Info

10. Chez Dornia - Nezignan l'Eveque long term property rentals France (Ref: 611)

This character long term rental property, is located in the centre of the charming old village of Nezignan l'Eveque, South France. The house is available for long term property rentals from 3-10 months. The house sleeps 6 and has its own private pool, off road parking, WiFi, an enclosed garden and UK free view TV. Nezignan l'Eveque is located close to the Mediterranean beaches (20 mins) and is surrounded by vineyards.

The historic town of Pezenas is just 2kms away and features many lovely restaurants and shops. The area is well served by various transport routes, with both the A9 and A75 autoroutes passing closeby; the TGV stopping 15km away; and 5 different international airports within a 1 hour 15 mins radius.

If you are looking for long term property rentals in France, then this glorious property in Languedoc is the perfect place to spend some quality time in South France. The property comes with:

• 3 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Private pool and garden
• WiFi and TV
• 5 mins to Pezenas
• Off-street parking
• Beaches 15 mins drive

This villa near Pezenas is available for long term rentals from mid-April 2023 for 3-12 months. The monthly rental price is €1200 per month + bills. 

More information

11. Maison Citron long term rentals cottage Magalas France (Ref: 2014)

Maison Citron is a 3 bed cottage for long term rentals in the hilltop village of Magalas in South France. This stone cottage comes with a large roof terrace, with panoramic views over the village and the surrounding vineyards. The cottage has a well-equipped kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a large living room & air conditioning.

The house contains:

• 3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)
• 2 bathrooms
• Large roof terrace
• Well-equipped kitchen + washing machine
• Pet friendly
• Central heating and air conditioning
• WiFi and flat screen TV 

This house is available to rent from January 2023 and the Owner will consider rental periods of 3-6 months. The guide rental price is €800 per month + bills.

More Info

12. Puimisson villa with pool for long term rent in South France (Ref: 1923)

This 3 bedroom villa with private pool is located on the edge of the medieval village of Puimisson in South France. The village of Puimisson dates back over 1,000 years and provides easy access to Beziers (for the airport and TGV), as well as the Mediterranean beaches (20-25 mins).

This villa for long term winter rentals comes with a private pool, parking and is located in a quiet neighbourhood. Ideal for families or couples expecting frequent guests.

• 3 bedrooms
• 1 bathroom
• Private pool
• Beautiful village location
• Parking

This villa to rent in France, is available for long term rentals for 3-6 months and the Owners will also consider 12 month rental periods as well. The monthly rent will vary according to the length of the rental period and the season (guide price €1000 + bills).

More Info

13. Apartment for long term rentals near Menton France (Ref: 1918)

A spacious 2 bed apartment with a coastal view in the beautiful village of Castellar, just above the resort town of Menton. 

The hilltop village of Castellar is set among olive groves and citrus trees, just 4 miles from the beaches at Menton. The apartment enjoys spectacular views down towards the French Riviera coastline. Being situated on the French/Italian border you have easy access by road or motorway to the glamorous resorts of Monte Carlo, Nice, Cap Ferrat, Ventimiglia, San Remo and Imperia. 

The apartment comes with:

• 2 bedrooms
• 1 bathrooms
• Private balcony
• Well-equipped kitchen
• Beach 10km away
• Walking distance to boulangerie, cafes, restaurants

The long term monthly rental prices for this Castellar apartment are determined by the season and length of stay. Utility bills are in addition to the rent. Minimum stay is one month. Rental prices start from €800 pcm + bills. Currently available to rent from January to June 2023 and again from mid-September 2023.

More Info

14. Le Grange Sud luxury long term rentals Dordogne France (Ref: 2004)

La Grange Sud is a beautiful barn conversion, situated in a stunning area of Dordogne close to the pretty town of Bergerac. The barn overlooks the 2nd and 4th fairways of Chateau Vigiers, one of the best golf resorts in the South West of France. Chateau Vigiers also boasts a Michelin star restaurant as well as a brasserie.

​La Grange Sud is a beautiful two bedroom property, with exposed oak beams, Italian travertine floors and high quality furnishings and fixtures.

This high-end long term rental property in Dordogne is perfect for golfers and couples looking to enjoy a few months in South West France with all your creature comforts. The property is furnished to a very high standard.

• 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
• large open-plan living room with fireplace, oak beams and TV with international channels
• well-equipped oak kitchen with dishwasher, oven, washing machine and plenty of cooking utensils, plates and cutlery
• large terrace with Jacuzzi and stunning views

This barn in Dordogne is available for long term rentals from October to May from €1400 per month + bills. 

More Info

Winter rentals in France in 2024-2025 . . . ?

We make the process of renting a house in France very straightforward. We don't require a stack of paperwork like a lot of French rental agents. We simply ask for copies of your ID (passport) and some evidence of ability to pay the monthly rent (which could be a copy of your bank statement, employment contract, bank reference or copies of your current rental/home loan payments). You can secure the property by paying a 1 month deposit (which becomes your security deposit for the tenancy).  For more information about how to find a house for rent in France: