Provence is one of those rare property markets where lifestyle and investment are naturally intertwined. Lavender fields, hilltop villages, the Mediterranean coastline, and a climate that quietly attracts buyers from across Europe and beyond are not mere surface level charms. These enduring qualities underpin steady demand and have helped Provençal property remain resilient through changing economic cycles.
Provence is not a single market, but a rich tapestry of distinct regions. The Luberon and the Alpilles appeal to different sensibilities than the Var countryside or the Provence coast, and each offers its own blend of property styles, price points, and day-to-day lifestyle that vary considerably across sub-regions. The right choice is less about reputation and more about finding the place that truly matches how you intend to live.
This guide explores the four areas where Home Hunts clients most often focus their search: the Luberon, the Alpilles, the Var countryside and the Provence coast. Each offers its own character, lifestyle and property landscape, and here you’ll find practical insight into what makes each one unique, who it suits and what to expect in terms of pricing.
The Luberon
Arguably the most famous part of Provence and the area where author Peter Mayle set his international bestseller “A Year in Provence,” the Luberon is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in France. Famed for its beautiful hilltop villages, spectacular scenery, sites of interest, exceptional food, warm climate and world-famous lavender fields, there’s also a strong international community here, making it especially appealing to expats.
According to Tim Swannie, Director of Home Hunts, “We have always found the Luberon to be one of the most desirable destinations for overseas buyers, particularly British, Dutch and Scandinavian, and this doesn’t let up. Properties in villages like Gordes, Bonnieux and Lourmarin remain in the most-searched-for destinations on our site every year.”
Officially one of the most beautiful villages in France, Lourmarin is located in the coveted South Luberon area, a property hotspot in Provence. According to Beate Geller, a Home Hunts consultant for Provence, “A huge advantage of South Luberon is that you can be nestled way in its bucolic beauty and still be close to cosmopolitan centres.”
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is another must-visit destination, with canals that pass through the centre and cafes set on the waterfront. Built in the 12th century, the island is famous worldwide for its antiques market, and it has around 300 permanent antiques dealers and secondhand shops in the town itself, too.
Most buyers in Luberon are looking for stone-built bastides and farmhouses, and while some want original charm and don’t mind a bit of renovation work, the most popular homes are modern and move-in ready. For a home in a prime village location, prices range from €1M to €5M, and for a home in the countryside or an outlying village, the cost is lower at €750K to €2M.
The ideal buyer for a home in Luberon is after an authentic Provencal lifestyle. Since the area has both a strong second-home market and year-round appeal, it’s an excellent area for either a primary or secondary home. Moreover, you can access the TGV in Avignon or the Marseille Provence Airport in about an hour or so.
The Alpilles
The area known as the Alpilles is so named because of the small mountains that stretch from Orgon to Saint-Étienne-du-Grès. Those who spend time here can enjoy glorious natural landscapes, breathtaking panoramas and all the various elements that make up the perfect Provençal lifestyle, from the scent of purple lavender fields to the exquisite taste of locally-crafted olive oil.
The Alpilles are becoming increasingly popular with overseas buyers, with Saint-Rémy-de-Provence being one of the most coveted locations to live in the area. Beautiful and magical, it served as the inspiration for Van Gogh to paint “The Starry Night” in 1889.
“We have found that Saint-Remy and the surrounding countryside have become more and more popular in recent years, particularly with buyers who want to feel they are living in the ‘real Provence’ and wish to have a laidback way of life without feeling disconnected,” explains Tim.
Fontvieille, on the southern side of the Alpilles, is also increasing in popularity. This area not only offers buyers more for their money, but it has performed extremely well over the last few years, even when the market was otherwise challenged. Other value villages worth considering are Mouriès and Saint-Étienne-du-Grès.
Property types in the Alpilles include bastides, countryside homes and village houses. Saint-Rémy commands premium pricing, while outlying villages offer lower entry points. In Saint-Rémy and the nearby countryside, expect properties to cost €1M to €4M, while those in outlying villages will be lower at €750K to €2M.
Overall, the Alpilles offer buyers more value when compared to the Luberon. Overseas buyers are increasingly drawn to the area, which offers a feel of real Provence without being secluded or disconnected.
The Var Countryside
One of the most lush and tranquil places in France, the Var countryside is a dream location and a property hotspot in Provence. The Var is a varied department offering properties of all types, from contemporary seafront villas to châteaux, farmhouses and vineyards, and the area offers an authentic Provençal way of life.
Located inland about 20 kilometres north of Fréjus, Bagnols-en-Forêt is a quiet, pretty village that oozes Provençal charm in the foothills of the Esterel mountain range. The inland area of the Var also includes notable villages such as Lorgues, Cotignac, Fayence and Bargemon, which boast great restaurants, busy markets and authentic community life.
Inland properties typically have a lower price point than those on the coast. Character properties with land in Cotignac, Fayence or Lorgues range from €750K to €2.5M, while exceptional estate and larger properties cost €2M to upwards of €5M.
“The Var has some wonderful sites to see, such as the Lac de Saint-Cassien, which is a huge inland lake offering water sports and excellent restaurants for those not wishing to head down to the coast,” says Tim. “One of the big draws to this area, apart from the climate, of course, is the fact that it remains relatively busy all year round. It is also very easy to head to the Riviera or Marseille, so you’re never isolated in the Var.”
While Home Hunts helps many buyers find second homes in the Var, permanent residences are also in demand. “We find that a lot of people looking for property in Provence buy in this area to live full-time, from those retiring to those buying properties with an income, such as vineyards or chambres d’hôtes,” adds Tim.
The Provence Coast
Stretching west from Saint-Tropez all the way to Marseille, the Provence coast is so sought-after that demand for property here increases each year. Since it’s less built-up than the French Riviera — which runs east from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border — and the coastline is more rugged, buyers can have a waterfront lifestyle at a lower price point.
Fréjus, a medieval seafront city, is located between Cannes and Saint-Tropez. Popular with tourists due to the rich culture and history of the city, as well as the fine, sandy beaches, property here is always in demand. Other key locations here include Bandol, Sanary-sur-Mer, Cassis and Le Lavandou.
“There are some wonderful properties in this area, from waterfront properties to huge sprawling estates, and everything is very discreet and a little less showy than the Côte d’Azur,” says Tim. “Buyers on the Provence coast mainly come from the Netherlands, Belgium, UK and Sweden, but we do get enquiries from clients from all over the world.”
Property types along the Provence coast include coastal apartments, contemporary builds and seafront villas. For coastal villas and larger homes in Bandol, Cassis and Sanary-sur-Mer, pricing ranges from €1M to €3M. Apartments and smaller properties near the water are typically priced lower, closer to €750K to €1.5M.
Choosing the Right Area for You
With its diverse landscapes, varied property styles and range of price points, Provence truly offers something for every type of property buyer. Whether you’re drawn to the Luberon’s hilltop villages and lavender fields, the authentic charm of Les Alpilles, the Var’s peaceful countryside, or relaxed waterfront living along the coast, choosing the right area ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities.
Some buyers are after a vibrant village setting with markets and restaurants right nearby, while others care more about privacy, space and panoramic views. Accessibility is also a consideration, especially for international buyers who need easy access to airports or TGV stations.
Since Provence is such a large and varied region, working with local experts can make the property search process far easier. At Home Hunts, our network of Provence specialists will help you narrow down your options to the right area based on your goals, practical needs and budget.
As a buyer’s agent, Home Hunts searches the entire market and works exclusively on behalf of the buyer, offering tailored guidance throughout the process. To discuss your property requirements, get in touch with one of our consultants today.
