Thinking of buying a B&B in France? Heres what you need to know

Have you ever dreamt of buying a B&B in France — perhaps a charming stone house surrounded by vineyards, where mornings begin with coffee on a sunlit terrace and evenings end with guests sharing stories over a glass of Minervois rosé?

It’s a wonderful dream. And, here in the Minervois, in the heart of the Languedoc region of southern France, it can truly become a reality.

We’ve been running La Souqueto, our award-winning boutique bed and breakfast in the Minervois, for more than a decade. Over the years, we’ve learned a great deal about what it really takes to buy, renovate and run a successful B&B in this stunning Occitanie region of France.

If you’re thinking about buying a B&B in France, you may find our insight useful. Doing your homework early can save a lot of time and expense later.

⸻

What to Consider Before Buying a B&B. 

Licences to live and work in Europe.

Due to Brexit it is now far more complicated for the British to up sticks and head to Europe to live and work full time. We arrived in France before Brexit and as we had three years in the French tax system, we were granted a 10 year Carte de sejour. We believe it is still possible to acquire an extended work visa.

Location, location, location.

France was our preference, but what Department was the big question. Being British, weather had a large part to play in our decision to head South! We read that the Languedoc enjoyed over 300 days of sunshine a year. It was also very close to Catalonia, we love Spain!! Property prices compared to Provence, under two hours away, were much cheaper too. We also have a boat, so we searched Canals in South of France and found the Canal du Midi which runs from the Atlantic coast to The Med.

Understand the areas tourism market. Who are your potential guests? Tourism is increasing dramatically in the Minervois. It attracts a mix of French holidaymakers, cyclists, walkers, and international guests following the wine trails and couples seeking authenticity, peace, sunshine and The Med.

Location, location, location…

Select your property wisely. If you want to combine property renovation with your new accommodation adventure be very careful. Restoration of property in any country can be complex but in our experience we found it very difficult to find reputable local builders and tradesmen. Allow at least a year (season) to convert a family home into a B&B. Our advice would be to look for an existing B&B with a good reputation for sale.

Understand the practicalities of starting a B&B business in France. Check local regulations and business permissions. Not every property can legally operate as a chambre d’hôtes (B&B), so check zoning and registration rules in the commune. In France a B&B must not have more than 5 lettable bedrooms. Anymore and the business will be given Hotel status with all the complicated Taxes that come with it.

Think about accessibility. Airports, Culture, History, local amenities and road transport links.

Understand Tax and accounting. Seek advice from an Accountant who can help to register your businees and understand your Tax position and liability.

⸻

What We’ve Learned at La Souqueto B&B.

When we first arrived in the Minervois, we were captivated by the beauty of the area and how well placed our village was in the Occitanie region. Our house a traditional Maision de Maitre, with centuries of history in its walls. retained many original features like a stunning staircase and we could immediately imagine guests falling in love with it. But turning that vision into reality took careful planning, patience, and a lot of passion.

We learned that creating a successful bed and breakfast in the South of France is about much more than a beautiful house with authentic rooms. It’s about outstanding hospitality —  A genuine interest in people and personal connections – the feeling of being welcomed into someone’s home. Then there’s the desire to share all the secret places that this region has to offer so our guests leave spell bound by the Languedoc. We were rewarded by achieving TripAdvisors ‘Travelers’ Choice Award’ for having 260 5* Reviews.

We also discovered that running a B&B follows a natural rhythm. Summers are busy and full of life, while winters are quieter — perfect for restoration, reflection and enjoying the slower pace of French village life.

⸻

The Joy of Living and Working in the Minervois

Owning a B&B in France isn’t just a business; it’s a lifestyle. We’ve met guests from all over the world — many of whom have become friends. We shop at local markets, enjoy long lunches with friends and neighbours, and never tire of the golden light over the vineyards at sunset.

Of course, it’s not always easy — but the rewards are endless. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about creating a space where people feel at home and fall in love with this region, just as we did.

⸻

Thinking About Taking the Leap?

If you’re dreaming of your own B&B in the Minervois or anywher else for that matter, our advice is simple: do your research, talk to people who’ve done it, and take your time. The right property — and the right lifestyle — will find you.

And if you’d like to experience what life here is really like, we’d love to welcome you to La Souqueto. Come stay, explore, and let’s chat about what it’s really like to live the dream in the South of France — preferably over a glass of Minervois wine on our terrace.