6 Great Ideas For Group Breaks In Houses In France

If you’re thinking about a group holiday in France, then we’ve got some great ideas for places to stay. Whether that’s a wine estate in Languedoc, a converted watermill in beautifulBrittany, a family holiday in a chateau in Normandy, an Alpine chalet perfect for a ski break, or maybe a couples retreat in the Three Valleys, France offers a brilliant holiday destination that groups will love. Enjoy great wine, tuck in to delicious food and explore gorgeous medieval cities, towns and villages when you spend a week across the channel. And, whatever time of year you visit, you’ll also be assured of a break from the (not-so) great British weather. Bonnes vacances! See our selection of French holiday properties.

Take your pick of some of our favourite places:

The incredible castle in the ‘Tuscany of France’

Chateau d’Aix in the stunning region of the Lot is undeniably beautiful – as soon as your group lay eyes on the place you’ll find a truly charming and electic mix of old and new. With large lawned gardens that offer opportunities for relaxing, as well as a pretty pool surrounded by shady red umbrellas, this wonderful castle oozes stylish decor and thoughtful touches.

Perfect for weddings, large family holidays, reunions or celebrations, there are 12 individually-designed bedrooms, which sleep up to 24 people. Linger over dinner on the terrace, which has knock-out views overlooking the valley, and let the kids curl up in the cinema room with its plush red velvet seats. The castle is handily situated in a wine-growing region too, and you don’t have to go far to try the local wine, as there’s wine tasting available right next door at the neighbouring chateau. Tres bon indeed!

Farmhouse and cottage in Tarn-et-Garonne

Get away from it all at these 2 properties converted from a lovely old farmstead surrounded by fields full of sunflowers and delicious fruits. La Grange sleeps 18 and Le Cottage a further 4, and there’s a fantastic barbecue terrace where everyone can get together for eating al fresco. There’s also a large games room, heated swimming pool and plenty of tucked away corners where you can chill with a good book.

Spend your time here relaxing or playing games, or ask your hosts to organise wine tasting for your group. If you’re feeling energetic then why not borrow one of the bikes to set out on more fast-paced adventures. You’ll love exploring the tranquil countryside comprising rolling hills and shimmering lakes, and thirsty adventurers should definitely stop off at the nearby medieval villages with their bars and restaurants, and be tempted by the wonderul markets laden with local produce.

The impressive chateau in Northern France

Sleeping 14 people in the chateau, this opulent retreat offers an unforgettable holiday destination. With stylish, contemporary rooms and original features everywhere you look, the spaces are perfect for group gatherings. Outside there’s a hot tub and swimming pool, as well as a treatment room and sauna for pampering and relaxation, along with beautiful mature gardens and lawns. You can eat in style in the dining room or al fresco on the sun terrace, and if you are celebrating a special occasion the Wedding Barn offers an atmospheric and intimate venue.

Conveniently positioned about 40 minutes from the Channel Tunnel and ferry terminals, a weekend away or longer holiday is stress-free, with plenty to explore in the area as well as several family attractions.

The working vineyard near Carcassonne

Just 15 minutes from the stunning medieval city of Carcassonne, this group of 9 modernised cottages sleeps up to 38 people, with the largest sleeping 12 and the smallest just 2. Set on a working winery with vineyards and olive groves, the rustic collection of cottages share a swimming pool with shady loungers and tennis court. It’s a family-friendly spot too, with a children’s play area, play room, and table tennis table at Chateau Canet as well as travel cots, high chairs and baby phones. Even better, there’s no traffic, so games of hide and seek can safely last all afternoon.

The whole of the Languedoc Rousillion is on your doorstep when you stay. Discover the Canal du Midi, where you can hire boats or join a cruise, marvel at Cathar castles, or simply wander open air markets at pretty towns and where you can choose the freshest produce to cook back at your home away from home.

The ‘Golden Triangle’ manor house

With a setting in the heart of peaceful Perigord Noir, between Sarlat and the incredible caves at Lascaux, you’ll adore this 18th century manor house, which has a definite luxury feel.  Sleeping 14 in the manor in 6 double bedrooms (all ensuite) and 7 in the neighbouring 3-bedroom cottage (also all ensuite), it is great for multi-generational breaks too, as everyone gets their own space. There are also enormous grounds to explore with a large heated pool and sauna.

Away from the gorgeous interiors, outside you can soak up the spectacular scenery of the Dordogne region. Nip to Salignac, the local village to stock up on groceries and grab a slice of French village life. If you’re keen to work off the croissants, the area is criss-crossed by a network of bike routes suitable for all ages, so if you can bear to tear yourselves away from lazy days by the pool, then a day exploring on two-wheels is definitely recommended. You’re also close the medieval towns of Sarlat, La Roque Gagneac and Domme.

The stylish ski retreat

If you’re hankering after fresh clean mountain air, and endless blue skies, then seek out Chalet Crethwaite which is in a brilliant spot for the Three Valleys ski region. Perfect for summer or ski breaks, this charming and contemporary-style chalet sleeping 10 is nestled close to the gorgeous mountain village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, where the St Martin gondola will take you to one of the 81 slopes, suitable for all levels of ability.

When you visit in winter you can spend your days on the piste, before returning to the cosy, modern kitchen to rustle up a lazy dinner, and soak up the wonderful views over the Belleville Valley. Or stay out for the apres ski and restaurants. And if you’re a group of serious foodies, don’t miss the 3 Michelin star La Bouitte in a neighbouring hamlet. In the summer wildflowers take the place of snow and you can explore the mountains on foot or by bike, or if you’re feeling adventurous then have a go at canyoning, gorge walking or paragliding.