Top 10 Best Destinations on the Mediterranean

Why Choose the Mediterranean for Your Vacation?

Choosing the Mediterranean for your vacation means opting for the perfect blend of sunshine, paradisiacal beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. With its Mediterranean climate, this sea offers hot, sunny summers, perfect for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. Add to these benefits a succulent cuisine and welcoming locals!

These arguments are even more compelling when it comes to renting a luxury villa by the French seaside. The Riviera, which refers to the towns located between Menton and Saint-Tropez, has become a common name for an enchanting coastline, where crystal-clear waters provide a backdrop to blooming hillsides and often colorful houses.

The 10 Best Mediterranean Destinations

From Marseille to Menton, a string of towns and villages with a Provençal and Azurian vibe attract vacationers from early spring until the last rays of autumn. Those who are familiar with the French Riviera can also venture into Catalan country.

What do these destinations have in common? A carefully selected range of luxury villas and historic castles, offering bespoke services, vast and well-maintained estates. These addresses also offer luxury villas with pools and/or sea views, providing an intrinsic discovery of the best features of luxury villas on the Côte d’Azur, from the lightness of rosé wines to the authentic flavors of sun-ripened vegetables.

Marseille: The Phocean City that Reawakens with Every OM Match

Marseille, a port city with authentic charm, blends history, culture, and nature. Its Vieux-Port, the vibrant heart of the city, invites you to savor a bouillabaisse while overlooking the colorful boats. The majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views. The Calanques, true natural jewels, attract hiking and swimming enthusiasts with their turquoise waters.

The Panier district, with its picturesque alleys and street art, reveals the bohemian spirit of the city.

Finally, Marseille boasts one of the most beautiful museums on the Mediterranean coast, the Mucem (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean). Located at the entrance of the Vieux-Port, this boldly designed museum, combining concrete and metal lace, was created by Rudy Ricciotti. It is connected to Fort Saint-Jean, a 17th-century fortress, by a spectacular footbridge. The Mucem explores Mediterranean cultures through varied exhibitions, blending history, art, and society. Its rooftop, with views over the sea, makes it an essential spot for relaxing and admiring Marseille from another angle.

Cassis, a Hidden Gem of the French Riviera

Cassis charms visitors with its picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and turquoise waters. Nestled between the majestic calanques and the impressive cliffs of Cap Canaille, the town offers a stunning natural setting. Famous for its white and rosé wines, it invites visitors to taste them in its terraced vineyards and restaurants. Boat trips, hiking, and farniente on the beaches are must-do activities.

Between Provençal authenticity and postcard-perfect landscapes, Cassis is an ideal getaway for Mediterranean lovers, especially if they can enjoy private access to the Great Blue for ultimate relaxation.

Grimaud, the Medieval Charm

This charming medieval village in the Var region captivates with its cobbled streets, stone houses, and its ruined castle offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Its authentic Provençal ambiance is reflected in its flower-filled squares and traditional markets. Just a few kilometers away, Port Grimaud, often called the "Venice of Provence," delights with its canals, colorful houses, and small boats. Between heritage, nature, and a laid-back lifestyle, Grimaud is a destination full of charm.

In the surrounding area, the bastides and vineyards shape the landscape and offer a rare sense of well-being.

Saint-Tropez, the Art of Seaside Celebration

Saint-Tropez, the legendary village on the French Riviera, combines glamour with Mediterranean charm. Famous for its lively harbor, luxurious yachts, and Provençal streets, it attracts both celebrities and those seeking authenticity. Its old district of La Ponche, colorful market, and citadel offer a picturesque setting.

In the village, the famous gendarmerie, featured in films with Louis de Funès, has been transformed into the Museum of the Gendarmerie and Cinema. The place is as iconic as the gathering spot for an aperitif at Sénéquier on the harbor.

The legendary Pampelonne beaches, known for their chic atmosphere, contrast with the surrounding wild coves. Between art, celebration, and a laid-back lifestyle, Saint-Tropez remains an iconic destination.

I discover a luxury villa in Beauvallon, in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Cap Bénat, the Discretion of the Blessed

A preserved gem of the Var coastline, Cap Bénat is a natural site of great beauty, located in the commune of Bormes-les-Mimosas. This wild cape, covered in pine forests and cork oaks, offers exceptional panoramas of the Hyères Islands and the Mediterranean. Known for its secure private domain, where luxurious and discreet villas are nestled, it attracts those who seek tranquility and nature. Its small coves with crystal-clear waters make it a prime location for swimming and diving. This true haven of peace, far from the tourist hustle and bustle, is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

Toulon, a Harbor in Full View

Toulon, a vibrant port city between the sea and mountains, is known for its military harbor, the largest in France, and its rich maritime heritage. Its historic center, with lively streets, Provençal markets, and the Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds Cathedral, reflects Mediterranean authenticity. Mount Faron, accessible by cable car, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the harbor. Toulon also attracts with its beaches, cultural offerings like the Opera and museums, and its sunny ambiance.

Travelers who prefer hidden coves and wild nature venture to the Wild Coast of La Seyne-sur-Mer, a preserved stretch of coastline between Fabrégas Beach and Cap Sicié. Characterized by steep cliffs and untouched Mediterranean nature, it is a paradise for hiking and snorkeling lovers, especially along the coastal trail, which offers breathtaking views of the sea. This secret is shared by only a small number of villa tenants.

Hyères, the Essence of Provence Guarded by Islands

Hyères, known as the "City of Palms," is a sunny destination where history, nature, and the art of living blend seamlessly. Its medieval center, dominated by the ruins of the Hyères Castle, offers a journey through time with its picturesque streets. The coastline, lined with beaches and wild coves, stretches to the sublime Hyères Islands (Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Le Levant), true gems of the Mediterranean. The city also captivates with its exotic gardens, such as the Villa Noailles garden, historically known as "Le Clos Saint-Bernard." The Art Deco architecture is the work of architect Robert Mallet-Stevens.

Cadaqués, the Catalan Temperament

After the border, the coast heads south but retains the charm of the Riviera with landscapes that attract artists. Cadaqués, a gem of the Costa Brava, captivates with its chic allure softened by a bohemian atmosphere.

This fishing village, with its white houses and cobbled streets, has inspired many artists, including Salvador Dalí, whose house-museum in Portlligat is a must-see. Nestled between the sea and mountains, it offers wild coves with crystal-clear waters and privileged access to the Cap de Creus Natural Park, a paradise for hikers.

Its peaceful atmosphere and idyllic setting make it a magical spot for a Mediterranean getaway. The numerous restaurants, offering everything from tapas to gastronomic delights, add to the charm of the village. It’s no surprise to find an incredible selection of luxury villas in Spain in this little paradise.

Rent the Villa of Your Dreams in Provence, by the Sea

For your luxury vacation rentals or villa hire for an event, Homanie opens the doors to a wide range of exceptional properties with private chefs and hotel services: all are situated in remarkable locations, often with direct sea views and sometimes even direct beach access. These luxury villas in the South of France, set within exceptional estates, occupy large spaces (ranging from 5 to 25 bedrooms), have undergone recent renovations or have been designed by renowned architects, and may surprise you with refined details (historic chapel, nightclub, French garden, etc.). Homanie also offers summer vacations in the mountains, providing an idyllic setting and panoramic views.