I have always believed that a holiday is better when my dog can come along. France is a dream destination for this. The French reputation for loving dogs is very true.. I have spent a lot of time exploring the different corners of this beautiful country. I want to share my favorite Luxury dog friendly self catering options across france with you.
First of all, what exactly is a gîte? A gîte is a holiday rental home in France.. These are often old farm cottages or converted barns.. Most are very well kept. They have full kitchens and even en-suite bathrooms.. Many now have access to a swimming pool.. Luxury dog friendly self catering options across france provide the freedom that hotels do not. There is no scramble for a sun lounger. You do not have set times for breakfast.. Plus, you do not have to say a tearful goodbye to your pooch..
The Paperwork Maze
The dream starts with a bit of a paper chase. I learned the hard way that you cannot rush French bureaucracy.. You must have an ISO-compliant microchip for your pet.. This chip is the official ID badge for your dog.. After the chip is in, the rabies vaccination must follow.. This vaccine must be at least 21 days old before you enter the European Union.. Therefore, I booked my vet months in advance..
Additionally, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).. A vet must issue this within 10 days of your departure.. I found that prices for this range from £100 to £300 per pet.. Gradually, I realized that some clinics are cheaper than others.. My list for the dog was longer than my own. I packed a new bowl that keeps food cool in the freezer.. I also bought cooling mats and a small paddling pool.. I even bought dog shoes, though my husband thought it was ridiculous..
Later, I had to think about the return trip. All dogs entering the United Kingdom need tapeworm treatment.. A vet in France must give this. It must happen between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive back in the UK.. Do not forget this step.. If the timing is wrong, the border guards will refuse travel.. Pure stress. Total chaos. Avoid it at all costs.
Journeying to the Land of Cheese
The journey is the start of the fun.. I prefer the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais.. You and your dog stay together in the car for the 35-minute crossing.. There are even dedicated dog exercise areas at the terminal.. First class treatment for a furry friend..
However, the train is also a great choice. The SNCF allows pets on many routes.. Small pets under 10kg travel in a carrier.. Larger dogs must be leashed and muzzled.. The fee for a pet on a TGV is usually around €7.. On international trains to Italy or Spain, the fee for large dogs can rise to €20.. Statistics show that 40% of hotels in Paris allow dogs.. In Nice, that number jumps to 59%.. A dog lover’s paradise. Truly..
Luxury Dog Friendly Self Catering Options Across France with Swimming Pool
When I look for a place to stay, a swimming pool is a must. One of the best dog friendly self catering options across france is Château Marteret in Gascony.. This place is a fairytale. It has eight bedrooms and can sleep 14 people.. The interiors are minimalist and chic.. On top of that, there are 400 acres of private grounds.. Your dog can wander through orchards and woodland for hours.. There is even a large lake for swimming..
Similarly, Château de Tourreau in Provence is stunning.. This 17th-century estate has 17 acres of parkland.. It features a massive 25 x 10-meter swimming pool.. The gardens are meticulously designed.. There are orchards, streams, and a small lake.. Dog friendly villas in France with private pool do not get much better than this.
Gradually, I found that the Dordogne is also perfect for pets. I call it the “Dor-dog-ne.”. Villa Chambre Du Paradis is a cozy stone cottage near Bergerac.. It has a private Roman-style pool.. The exposed stone walls and beams give it a rustic feel.. The flooring is perfect for dogs to lounge on..
Another favorite is Villa Shambhala.. It sits right on the Dordogne river.. The riverside is just a few steps down from the house.. It has a private pool in a secluded courtyard.. MAJESTIC VIEWS. TOTAL PEACE.
Exploring the South – Provence and the Riviera
Provence is a dream for nature lovers.. First of all, visit the Luberon National Park.. The lavender fields and vineyards are perfect for long walks.. Plus, the Pont du Gard is a top pick.. This Roman viaduct is a natural site. Dogs are allowed everywhere except inside the main buildings..
However, be careful on the French Riviera.. Many beaches forbid dogs in the summer months.. But Nice has two dog-friendly beaches: Plage de Lenval and Plage de La Lanterne.. Statistics from 2025 show that finding a dog-friendly beach in summer is hard.. Only a few regions like Alpes-Maritimes and Var are very welcoming..
I stayed at Fresia I & II in Grasse.. These villas sit high in the hills.. You can lounge by the pool under olive trees and fruit groves.. Additionally, the village is a short stroll away.. It has a bakery and two great restaurants..
Normandy and the Northern Charm
Normandy is full of history and charm.. Utah Beach is a great spot for a walk.. I also loved Mont-Saint-Michel.. Small dogs can take the shuttle bus if they are in a bag.. If your dog likes long walks, take the causeway and bridge to the island.. It is an iconic sight..
First of all, I must mention Granville.. They call it the “Monaco of the North.” It has the biggest tidal range in Europe.. Autumn is the best time to see the high tides.. Gradually, I learned the rules for the beaches there.. Dogs are allowed on most Granville beaches from September 15 to June 15.. But they are forbidden on Plat Gousset beach all year..
Later, I stayed at Gîte “Au P’tit Tourois” in Tour-en-Bessin.. This place has a 9.8 rating.. It is a Pet-friendly accommodation with fenced garden in France.. The garden is huge and perfect for my Westie to explore.. It is very safe with a gated entrance.. The owners, Sandra and Didier, are fantastic.. This gîte is close to Omaha Beach and Bayeux..
Therefore, it is a perfect base for history fans..
The Loire Valley – A Walk Through History
The Loire Valley is famous for its fairy-tale châteaux.. Many allow dogs in their outdoor spaces.. Château de Chambord lets leashed dogs on the grounds.. Château de Chenonceau is even more welcoming.. Small dogs can go inside if they are carried..
On the contrary, Versailles and Fontainebleau forbid dogs in their formal gardens.. You must check the rules for each castle.. Château d’Ussé allows dogs of all sizes inside and out.. Château de Langeais is also a good choice..
I stayed at Château de Berne in Provence for a bit of luxury.. It is a 5-star hotel and vineyard.. They have 320 acres of vines.. There are two fine restaurants.. One even has a Michelin star.. The rooms have a rustic, country-chic vibe.. Luxury at its best.
Dog Friendly Gites France – What to Expect
When you book dog friendly gites France, read the fine print. Owners may charge a supplement for pets.. They might also increase the security bond.. Important rule: never leave your pet alone in the house.. They must not rest on beds or sofas.. They must never swim in the pool for hygiene reasons.. This protects the pool liners..
Additionally, many gîtes do not include linen.. You might have to bring your own sheets and towels.. Always double check the details so you do not get a surprise at check-in.. Gradually, I learned to carry a “dog kit” with me. It has water bottles, food, treats, and poo bags.. I also bring collars, leads, and a familiar blanket.. A little bit of home helps the dog relax..
Casual Dining with Your Dog
Dining out in France is a joy. Most restaurants and cafes allow dogs.. They can join you inside or on the terrace.. It is polite to ask first.. I love the Boulangeries Feuillette chain.. They often have comfy couches and a fireplace.. My dog was welcome inside at multiple branches.. Pastries and pups. A perfect pair.
On top of that, many cafes provide water bowls for dogs.. I often take advantage of the cheap lunchtime set menus.. Or I buy a baguette sandwich at a bakery.. First of all, avoid supermarkets with your dog.. They are strictly forbidden there.. Similarly, many manicured city parks ban dogs.. Always look for the signs at the entrance..
Understanding the Local Rules
France has specific laws for certain dog breeds. Some breeds are classified as “dangerous.”. Class 1 dogs, like certain Pitbulls or Mastiffs without pedigree, cannot be imported.. Class 2 dogs can enter with restrictions.. They must wear a leash and a muzzle in public..
Gradually, you will notice that French properties have different standards.. Septic tanks are common in rural areas.. They can sometimes have an odor.. Staircases can be very steep.. Electrical supplies are often lower than in the UK.. You cannot use too many machines at once.. Therefore, find the fuse board as soon as you arrive..
Finally, respect the neighbors.. There are laws against noise after 10 pm.. Although you are on holiday, the locals are not.. They might call the police if things get too loud.. In rural areas, expect early morning noise from tractors.. Especially during the grape harvest in August and September..
A Selection of Top Dog Friendly Villas
Here is a quick guide to some Best dog friendly self catering options across france:
- Le Pavillon, La Tranche Sur Mer: A three-bedroom villa with a heated swimming pool.. Perfect for families.
- Villa Romane, Avignon: This is a massive property that can sleep 16 people.. It has a circular pool with classical columns.. It is close to the beautiful towns of Arles and Avignon..
- La Rhune, Biarritz: This villa sits at the foot of a mountain.. It has a ranch-like feel.. The pool is set below a sloping lawn..
- Villa La Plaine, Midi-Pyrenees: A restored farmhouse north of Toulouse.. It sits on two acres of land.. There is plenty of room for your dog to roam.. It has a heated outdoor pool.. 5-star luxury..
- Chateau Mareuil, New Aquitaine: This was on the TV show Escape to the Chateau DIY.. It is a charming 15th-century castle.. It has an outdoor pool and an informal bar in an old chapel..
Life in a Castle
If you want to feel like royalty, try a castle stay. Château de Fonscolombe in Provence is a 5-star boutique hotel.. It has beautiful botanic gardens and an outdoor heated pool.. The restaurant, L’Orangerie, uses fresh ingredients from the kitchen gardens..
Château De La Caze is another romantic choice.. It sits in the Gorges du Tarn.. This Renaissance-era castle has an intimate feel.. There is a heated pool and a spa bath.. The area is great for long hikes and canoe rides.. Historical charm meets modern comfort..
Gradually, I found that many châteaux offer self-catering too. Château de Sacy in the Champagne region is a sophisticated spot.. It has hot tubs made from old wine barrels.. You can explore the surrounding vineyards on electric bikes.. Plus, the views over the city of Reims are stunning..
The Practical Side of Booking
Booking a villa is a process. First of all, read all the property information.. Ensure it is right for your group.. Check the availability with the owner before you make travel plans.. Most companies will provisionally reserve a house for 24 hours.. During this time, you must pay the deposit and fill out the form..
Additionally, be aware of the “taxe de séjour.”. This is a stay tax in France. It is usually charged per adult per night.. The amount is usually around €3.. Sometimes it is included in the price. Other times, you pay it on arrival..
Therefore, always have some cash ready.. Some owners want the security deposit in cash.. It is usually returned on your last day after an inspection.. Cleanliness is key. You must leave the house tidy.. Wash the dishes and remove the rubbish.. If the house is dirty, the owner can keep part of your deposit.. They often charge €20 per hour for extra cleaning..
Dealing with Problems
Though we hope for the best, things can go wrong.. On arrival, check the house carefully.. If something is broken, tell the owner or housekeeper immediately.. This proves that you did not cause the damage.. Additionally, you must give the owner a chance to fix any issues.. If you wait until you get home to complain, you might not get any compensation..
Later, if you need to cancel, do it in writing.. If you cancel more than 8 weeks before arrival, you will likely lose your deposit.. If you cancel closer to the date, you might not get any refund.. Therefore, comprehensive travel insurance is a must.. It should cover cancellations for health or other reasons..
On top of that, check your personal liability insurance.. Residents of the UK often need a special policy for this.. It should cover at least €3 million.. Safety first.
A Dog’s Life in Rural France
Rural France is a sensory feast for a dog. First of all, be ready for other animals.. You will find farm animals and wild creatures.. There will be new smells and noises.. Additionally, insects and rodents can find their way into old houses.. This is part of the country life.
Gradually, you will settle into the rhythm of the village. Visit the local markets.. In Granville, the covered market is a heritage site.. It was a hospital in 1944.. You can still see Disney characters that wounded soldiers drew on the walls.. Plus, try the local seafood.. Whelks and lobsters are a specialty..
I once took a workshop on how to cook lobster like a chef.. It was an amazing experience.. Later, I enjoyed a 100% lobster menu that I helped prepare.. Total bliss. Pure indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog’s favorite meat treats from the United Kingdom?
No, you cannot bring meat or dairy-based pet food or treats from the UK into the European Union. These items are strictly forbidden due to current trade rules. You are allowed to bring up to 2kg of special medical food only if you have a written note from your vet. Therefore, buy your dog food after you arrive in France..
What is the difference between a gîte and a chambre d’hôtes?
A gîte is an independent holiday home designed for self-catering. You have your own kitchen and private space. On the contrary, a chambre d’hôtes is a bed and breakfast where the owner lives in the same house. Total privacy versus a shared home. Choose wisely.
Are there rules about which dog breeds can enter France?
Yes, France has strict laws for “dangerous” dog breeds. Class 1 dogs, such as Pitbull types without a pedigree, are completely forbidden from entering the country. Class 2 dogs with a pedigree can enter, but they must wear a muzzle and a leash in all public areas. Check your pet’s paperwork before you travel..
Do I have to pay extra fees to bring my dog to a gîte?
Many owners charge a supplement for pets to cover extra cleaning. They might also ask for a larger security bond. Always check the price list or the Fact Sheet for these extra costs before you finalize your booking. Avoid surprises at check-in..
Can my dog join me on French public transport?
Small dogs usually travel for free if they stay in a bag or carrier. Larger dogs are allowed on trains and some city transport if they are on a lead and wear a muzzle. You must buy a reduced-fare ticket for larger dogs on most long-distance routes. Rules vary by city. Check the local signs.
Are dogs allowed on French beaches during the day?
Most beaches ban dogs during the busy summer months from June to September. However, some areas allow dogs in the early morning or late evening. Nice and the French Riviera have a few specific year-round dog-friendly beaches like Plage de La Lanterne. Gradually, you will find the right spots for a swim..
Concluding words
You now have the secrets for a perfect French holiday with your pet. Luxury dog friendly self catering options across france offer the freedom that hotels simply cannot provide. You can choose from fairytale castles in Provence or rustic stone cottages in the Dordogne. Just remember to complete the paperwork and follow the local rules for beaches and transport.
Respect the property and the neighbors to ensure a smooth stay. France is a true paradise for dogs and their owners.. Pack your bags. Start your adventure today.. Total bliss. Pure joy.
