A Guide to Buying in the Bordeaux, Dordogne & Basque Regions

The South West of France consists of three rather distinct regions, each one offering its own unique entry into embracing the finest French lifestyle. For international buyers looking to invest in properties in the region, understanding what Bordeaux, Dordogne, and the Basque Coast each offer is key to finding a property that truly matches your lifestyle goals.

Bordeaux: Where Urban Elegance Meets Wine Heritage

Most famous for its wine, Bordeaux is also known for its stunning 18th-century architecture, as the region effortlessly mixes metropolitan sophistication with vineyard country living. The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its many monuments and unified historical design, while the broader area itself offers exceptional gastronomy and world-renowned wine culture. International buyers are drawn to the elegant Haussmann apartments available in the historic centre, as well as the contemporary riverside developments, and selected prestigious wine estates that exist in surrounding appellations like Médoc and Saint-Émilion. Easily accessible, with direct flights to major European capitals, in combination with strong rental demand, Bordeaux delivers both lifestyle appeal and investment performance for foreign buyers.

• Key considerations for buying in Bordeaux: Check proximity to international schools if you’re relocating full-time with family, and understand rental regulations if considering purchasing property for short-term lets in the city centre. Properties within walking distance of tram lines command premium prices but offer excellent lifestyle benefits and strong resale potential.

Dordogne: Timeless Countryside Authenticity

For international buyers in search of a quintessential French countryside experience, the region of Dordogne could be a great match, as it offers exceptional value alongside undeniable charm. Home to medieval hilltop villages, truffle markets, and honey-coloured stone architecture, this region’s character is defined by properties that range from traditional Périgourdine farmhouses with expansive land to elegant manor houses steeped in history. The Dordogne region tends to attract buyers prioritising space, tranquility, and genuine French living without compromising on cultural richness or culinary excellence.

• Key considerations for purchasing in Dordogne: Restoration projects in Dordogne require careful due diligence. Be sure to work with qualified surveyors to assess structural integrity before committing to any projects. Properties with surrounding land may have agricultural designations affecting future development, and septic systems (fosse septique) in rural areas require proper inspection. 

The Basque Coast: Coastal Sophistication with Year-Round Appeal

Biarritz and the surrounding Basque region offer a compelling blend of Atlantic coastline elegance and distinctive cultural identity. The mild climate supports outdoor, year-round living, while the region’s surf culture, Belle Époque villas, and proximity to Spain create an exclusive lifestyle proposition. Many properties here tend to command strong rental returns, particularly beachfront residences and renovated traditional Basque houses, as they appeal to active buyers seeking premium coastal properties with substance.

• Key considerations for buying in the Basque Region: Many coastal properties have stricter planning regulations and higher insurance premiums. Prime beachfront locations remain tightly held, making off-market opportunities particularly valuable.

The Value of Expert Guidance from Buyer’s Agent

Navigating the diverse property markets of these three regions requires local expertise, market insight, and professional negotiation. Working with us means you have access to the complete property market in all regions, including off-market opportunities, while protecting your interests throughout the acquisition process. So why not start turning your French property dream into reality today?