I love to travel through the beautiful countryside of France with my furry best friend by my side. Every time the summer heat arrives, I find myself dreaming of a cool dip in a private pool. Actually, a holiday just does not feel complete without my dog. I have spent years searching for the Best Dog Friendly Villas in France with Private Pools, and I want to share my personal experience to help you find the perfect spot.
France is a wonderful place for pet owners because the culture is so relaxed. In general, I find that dogs are tolerated much better here than in other European countries I have visited. You will often see locals at restaurants with their pets in tow. Plus, the country offers a huge variety of landscapes, from the sandy beaches of the south to the rustic hills of the Dordogne. The freedom is amazing.
Getting Ready For The Big Trip
First of all, you must plan your logistics carefully. I always use LeShuttle to cross the channel because I can stay with my dog during the 35-minute crossing. It is a very stress-free way to start a vacation. However, you must keep your doggy documentation up to date. Since Brexit, travelers from the UK need an Animal Health Certificate. I have found that costs for this certificate vary. One local vet charged me £95, while another asked for £150. Therefore, you should definitely shop around.
If you are coming from the United States or Canada, the rules are quite strict. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old before they get a rabies shot. Additionally, every animal needs a microchip that meets specific ISO standards. Safety first. You will also need an official health certificate that is endorsed by the USDA or CFIA. Do not forget that these certificates are usually only valid for 10 days from the date of the official stamp until you arrive in Europe.
What To Look For In Dog Friendly Villas France
The search for the right pet-friendly accommodation with fenced garden in France can be tricky. Most people want a decent garden with a large lawn and a secure perimeter. I always look for a place that offers easy access to country walks or vineyards. Luxury villas France private pools are the ultimate goal, but you must check the specific pet rules for each property.
Usually, villa owners have a few standard requirements. For example, dogs are not permitted in the swimming pools because their claws can damage the pool liner. Similarly, many owners request that dogs stay off the uncovered furniture and out of the bedrooms. Plus, you are always expected to remove all dog mess from the garden before you leave. Cleanliness is key.
My Top Picks In The Dordogne Region
Dordogne is often called “Dordogne-shire” by fans because it is so popular with international visitors. It is one of the best places for Dog friendly villas France. I recently found a place called Leobachelle in the Bachellerie area. It is a picturesque, detached home surrounded by trees. The garden is fully fenced and covers 3,000 square meters, which is perfect for a dog to run around freely. Additionally, the private pool is heated to a lovely 27°C. Pure bliss.
Later, I explored a larger estate known as Gite Dordogne. This property is more like a private country park. It has 26 acres of grassland, forests, and even two lakes. Imagine your own private space with no other guests around. On top of that, it has a massive 14-meter-long swimming pool with a “social step” where you can sit and cool down with a cold beer. This is a great choice for family villas France private pool because it can sleep up to 14 people.
Another gem in this region is Villa Chambre Du Paradis. It is a cozy stone cottage about 30 km from Bergerac. It has exposed stone walls and beams that give it a rustic feel. Your dog will love the Roman-style pool and the covered terrace. Similarly, Villa Shambhala offers a majestic view of the sun setting over the Dordogne river. It blends elegant luxury with traditional charm and even has an honesty bar stocked with local wines.
Exploring Provence And The Alpilles
Provence is a dream for mature travelers who love art, food, and wine. I spent some time near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and discovered Mas de Claurélie. This villa has a 3,000 square meter landscaped garden. There is plenty of room for your pet to explore while you relax by the heated pool or the jacuzzi. Luxury at its best.
If you want to be close to the village center, Villa Alma is only a ten-minute walk from Saint-Rémy. It has a large enclosed garden, which is a safe and secure space for any pet. Also, Villa Mélina in Carpentras is a modern choice. It features a fully enclosed garden secured by an electric gate. The interior is warm and spacious, and it comes with high-quality amenities for a comfortable stay.
Gradually, I realized that many people are looking for an “off-the-grid” experience. La Colle farmhouse in the Luberon area is set in over 30 hectares of natural parkland. Access is along a remote country track, but the house still has all the modern comforts you need, including a private pool. Total peace and quiet.
Coastal Luxury And Sea Views
The French Riviera or Côte d’Azur is the place to go if you want to feel like a movie star. I highly recommend Villa l’Esterel near Cannes. It overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and sits right next to the famous Pierre Cardin “Bubble House”. It has four floors, a private lift, and an infinity pool. The garden is fully enclosed, which is great for safety. However, this kind of luxury comes with a higher price tag. High season rentals can cost between €4,150 and €5,500 per week.
Similarly, Villa des Lauriers in Mougins offers incredible views over the bay of Cannes. It features high-speed wifi, a table tennis table, and a boules court. Fun for everyone. Additionally, if you prefer the Languedoc region, you might like Coastal Dream in Marseillan. It was newly renovated for 2025 and is just a short stroll from the port area where you can find great bars and shops.
Brittany And The West Coast
Brittany is a great choice if you want to avoid long-haul journeys from the UK. The climate is very similar to the UK but with more sunshine and less rain. I visited Villa de Began Tour, which has direct access to a coastal path and a small sandy beach. It even includes a spa room with a hot tub and a sauna. On top of that, Le Pavillon in the Vendée region is a three-bedroom villa near gorgeous sandy beaches and an adventure park. It has a heated pool and a games room, making it perfect for families.
Statistical Data And Market Trends
It is interesting to look at the numbers behind these rentals. The Alpine property market has seen a 46% increase in summer lift pass sales in the Chamonix Valley between 2022 and 2024. This shows that more people are visiting the mountains during the warmer months. Additionally, 73% of high-net-worth individuals say they would consider living full-time in the Alps and working remotely.
When it comes to Best villas in France, the investment potential is quite strong. Net rental yields for properties in popular areas like Morzine can reach about 3.2%. In the luxury market, some villas in the French Riviera can cost nearly €100,000 per week. However, you can still find great deals. For instance, Domaine des Therons allows you to rent a 6-bedroom villa for under €30 per person per night if you fill all the beds.
France now boasts over 250 dog-friendly beaches. This makes it a paradise for water-loving pups. Actually, the “twin destination” trend is also growing. Some buyers pair an Alpine base for the winter with a Mediterranean villa for the summer. This allows them to have a balanced lifestyle portfolio.
Understanding The Rental Agreement
Finally, I must mention the importance of reading your lease agreement. Most contracts in France are governed by the Civil Code. You will usually need to pay a deposit of 30% to confirm your booking. A security deposit is also standard. For example, one property I stayed at required a €600 damage deposit.
Owners are very specific about the rules. You cannot move the furniture or change the layout of the house. Also, excess water consumption is often charged extra if you use more than 5 cubic meters per week. Therefore, you should be mindful of your usage. At the end of your stay, you are often expected to start the dishwasher and remove all garbage to local containers. Failure to follow these rules can lead to a deduction of €50 or more from your deposit.
Why You Should Choose Pure France Dog Friendly Rentals
The Pure france dog friendly experience is about finding a home away from home. I love properties like Domaine de Pradines, which is a 120-year-old stone farmhouse. It has exposed stone walls and oak beams, but it is also well-equipped with modern entertainment like table football and mountain bikes. Similarly, Sawdays dog friendly france often features handpicked homes with real character.
I have found that staying in a villa offers much more freedom than a hotel. You do not have to scramble for a sun lounger or worry about set breakfast times. Most importantly, you do not have to say a tearful goodbye to your dog when you go on vacation. It is a life-changing way to travel.
Long term rental France pet friendly options are also available if you want to explore the country for a few months. This is a great way to “test drive” different regions before you decide where to buy a permanent home. Many owners are willing to negotiate lower rates for stays of four weeks or more.
Activities To Enjoy With Your Dog
France is full of scenic walking trails. I love the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Loop for a gentle stroll. If you want something more challenging, you can try La Rhune in the Basque Country. Additionally, many villas provide access to nearby lakes and rivers where your dog can swim.
Dining out is also easy. Small bistros and riverside cafes often welcome furry guests. Just remember that your dog should be kept on a lead. When I am at a beach, I always check the local signs. Certain beaches restrict dogs during the peak summer months, but there are always hidden spots where it is okay to walk them.
FAQs About Your Pet Holiday
Are there any dog breeds that I cannot bring into France?
I always tell my friends that France has strict rules about certain dog breeds. Actually, the government forbids you from bringing “attack dogs“ like pitbulls or mastiffs if they do not have official papers. I know that you will find it very hard to travel with these specific breeds for short trips. Therefore, you must check your dog’s breed papers before you book a villa. Safety first.
Can I bring more than five pets on my vacation?
I usually see families travel with just one or two dogs. However, you can bring more than five animals if you are on your way to a competition, a show, or a training event. These pets must be older than six months to qualify. Additionally, you need to provide written proof from an organizing association to travel with this many pets. A real crowd.
How should I handle ticks and fleas while staying in the countryside?
I want to warn you that ticks and fleas are quite common in the warm grass and forests of southern France. You should ensure your dog has up-to-date medicine and a flea collar before you arrive. Also, many villas provide tick forks to help you remove them safely if you find one. Plus, I have heard that some neighbors might even be vets who can help you in an emergency. Stay protected.
Can I request extra services like a private chef or grocery deliveries?
I have noticed that luxury rentals often come with amazing extra help to make your trip better. First of all, a concierge team can stock your fridge or even hire a local chef for you. Later, you might get help from owners who speak fluent French to book local restaurants. On top of that, I have seen some villas offer welcome baskets filled with local bread, wine, and honey. Pure luxury.
Concluding words
I believe a French holiday with your dog is a wonderful experience that you will never forget. You get total freedom and comfort when you rent a luxury villa with a private pool. These homes offer safe fenced gardens and easy access to beautiful walking trails.
Gradually, you will see that the relaxed culture makes it easy to bring your best friend along. Finally, I suggest you start your plan early to make sure your pet’s papers are ready for the border. Your furry friend deserves a seat at the table. A dream come true.
