Quirky French Stays: 9 Unique Gîtes in France

Looking for a unique holiday experience in France? Consider staying in a quirky gite such as a treehouse or floating house surrounded by the country’s beautiful flora and fauna, here are some of our favourites…

Escape to a unique and enchanting experience on the water with this floating cabin in Morbihan, Brittany. Nestled in a preserved natural space, this comfortable “tiny house” provides the perfect setting for relaxation, fishing and even swimming. It’s a tranquil retreat that sits on the lake and would make for a beautiful and romantic escape, and the Nordic bath spa adds an extra touch of luxury.

Cabane flottante Victoria

Experience the ultimate cave living in this beautifully restored troglodyte house in Indre-et-Loire. Elegance and refinement characterise this house for eight people with three bedrooms and two large bathrooms, one of which boasts a splendid Finnish spa. Relax in the enclosed shaded courtyard or enjoy the games room with table football, billiards, and darts. You can also rent two e-bikes and two hybrid bikes during your stay to explore the surrounding countryside.

Le Troglodyte de Bernadette

Escape to the countryside and experience the joys of farm work at the Montintin estate in Haute-Vienne. At the end of a small country road in the Fayat forest, you will find three lodgings arranged around a 19th-century chateau, including the gîte ‘la pommeraie’. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside, spend your days picking apples and exploring the trails, and your evenings relaxing in the cozy living room or playing pool in the small house.

La Pommeraie

Located in the Regional Natural Park of Saint-Baume in Bouches-du-Rhône, this unique pioneer’s cabin is nestled in the heart of a pine forest, offering a peaceful and serene setting for your stay. It’s also within easy reach of popular Provence locations such as the Calanques, Marseille, Aubagne, Aix-en-Provence and the Var. The chalet itself is full of character and charm, with a unique atmosphere and decoration that will transport you to another time and place. The sleeping area can accommodate up to 4 people, with a double bed and two bunk beds. Outside, you’ll find a private wooden terrace with a picnic table and benches, perfect for enjoying a meal or a glass of wine in the fresh air.

Chalet Pioneer

In Esquelbecq, France’s Favourite Village in 2023, this farm is ideally located to discover the charm of Nord and Pas-de-Calais. The guest rooms are perfect for families and groups of friends, each with its own bathroom. Dunkirk is just 20 km away and you can also visit Cap Blanc Nez which is 70 km away, or Bruges, which is 80 km away across the Belgian border. You can work on the vegetable and grain farm and care for the animals while enjoying the peaceful countryside.

Ferme de Guernonval

This enchanting treehouse cabin is nestled among the towering trees and it has a magical terrace, making this a cosy and magical retreat. Inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting space, where you can escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this treehouse retreat.

Cabane Au Fil de Soi

This beautiful renovated gîte in the wing of an 18th-century château in Charente-Maritime has two ensuite bedrooms with comfortable queen-size beds, one of which also has a single bed. Experience a slice of luxury in this elegant gite that is well-equipped and located just north of Jonzac.

Manoir du Domaine des Augers

This unique Teepee is a comfortable wooden accommodation located in a closed and secluded spot at the foot of the woods, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy the private Nordic bath, large wooden terrace, and barbecue area. The location is convenient, with nearby attractions such as Cap Blanc-Nez and Calais Channel Tunnel not too far away.

Le Tipi

On the borders of the Côte-d’Or and the Saône-et-Loire, surrounded by vineyards and offering an unobstructed view of the hills, this home is in the heart of Burgundy. You can explore the GR7, Voie verte and the local equestrian centre, or experience wine tasting on the estate itself.

Côté Vigne

Looking for the perfect stay in France?

Gîtes de France is a national federation that rates the country’s gites and chambre d’hôtes, and they offer a wide range of holiday rentals and bed and breakfasts. The organization has been the leader in private holiday accommodation in France for 60 years and has over 550 staff members in local offices at your service before, during, and after your stay.