Why International Buyers Are Choosing to Buy Property in the South West of France

Close your eyes to picture this scene: you’re sitting in a plush chair, the soft, golden afternoon light filtering gently through ancient stone archways, a glass of Saint-Émilion in hand, overlooking your own little vineyard stretching out towards medieval hilltop villages in the distance. Sounds like a dream? It doesn’t have to be, as this dream is closer to reality than you’d think and is awaiting you in the South West of France. 

Where in France?

Stretching from the Atlantic shores to the Pyrenees, the South West of France includes coastal cities such as Bordeaux and La Rochelle, the picturesque Dordogne valley, and the dramatic mountain landscapes of Cathar country, making it a region of remarkable geographical diversity. Increasingly sought-after by international buyers due to its appealing blend of authentic French living and luxury investment, the South West of France offers something the more saturated markets simply cannot: space, ‘une belle vie’, and exceptional value without compromising on lifestyle.

What can you expect in the South West of France?

From restored Périgourdine farmhouses set within truffle-rich woodlands to contemporary estates right in the heart of Bordeaux wine country, the diversity of property available in the South West of France is matched only by the region’s genuine character. Here, you can expect to find world-class gastronomy, renowned vineyards like Cahors and Madiran, and a temperate climate that encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round – without the tourist crowds of the Côte d’Azur. The region’s accessibility is another compelling reason why more international buyers are looking to buy here. International airports in Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Biarritz provide excellent connectivity to the rest of Europe. At the same time, proximity to the Pyrenees ski resorts and Atlantic coastline means that the South West of France offers a remarkably versatile option to serve as a second or third home base, another source of income as a rental location, or even a permanent relocation.

Why the South West of France Makes for a Strategic Investment

Outside of its enticing lifestyle offering, the South West of France remains a solid investment opportunity for foreign buyers, due to its stable housing market and potential for growth, particularly in the luxury tourism market, where character properties are commanding impressive rental yields. Property in the South West tends to hold its value well and consistently appreciates year on year, particularly in prime locations near Bordeaux, the Dordogne, and the Basque Coast. In addition, rental returns from platforms such as Airbnb offer solid income potential. The region’s appeal to high-end travelers seeking real French experiences, combined with lower acquisition costs than the French Riviera, creates attractive yields. Properties in sought-after villages and wine regions regularly achieve strong returns, with well-positioned homes generating substantial net income through holiday lets while retaining their capital value.

Buying a home in the South West of France makes for an excellent investment for international buyers, and the region’s real estate market remains exceptionally strong. Of course, buying property in France isn’t simply a transaction; rather, it is more about stepping into a truly exceptional lifestyle and everything that comes with it. The South West of France delivers this in abundance, combining the romance of rural France with sophisticated modern living. If you’re ready to explore what this region offers, our expert guidance makes all the difference in discovering your perfect French home.