Villa La Tosca

Before it became Villa La Tosca, the property was known as Domaine de Hurlevent. While the name might conjure images of the windswept Yorkshire moors, its connection to the Bassin d’Arcachon becomes clear when Karin, the owner, shares her story. Hidden within a primeval forest and in a state of considerable disrepair, the 900m² residence captivated Karin and her husband Marc, who instantly saw its untapped potential.

Once the renovation was complete, the results exceeded even their own high expectations: an extraordinary villa with breathtaking views of the Bay of Arcachon, direct beach access, and every amenity one could wish for on a holiday. The property boasts eight spacious bedrooms, a jacuzzi, a natural swimming pool, expansive wooded grounds, and a large terrace—everything you need for a perfect getaway, all just minutes from the bay.

When the sun is at its zenith, you can also relax in the house, which has been carefully decorated with objects and decorative items unearthed on family trips. In the bedrooms, decorative pieces unearthed in Thailand adorn the walls, an African print stands opposite an antique Indonesian wardrobe, and a Chinese triptych in carved wood sits next to a custom-made rug with a motif inspired by the hundred-year-old tamarisk trees that line the property.

The result? A harmonious blend of antique furniture, worldly objects, and contemporary design pieces that complement the building’s rich history. The garden is equally captivating. As you wander through, you’ll notice towering statues, reminiscent of totem poles. These are actually trees that were damaged in a storm. Rather than removing them, Karin enlisted local sculptor Armand Kebfoube to transform them into guardians, silently watching over the guests of Villa La Tosca…

Villa La Tosca radiates good vibes, making it a popular choice for weddings, birthdays, and other family celebrations. For Karin and her family, the villa is more than just a venue; it’s a place for connection and renewal, where guests can reconnect with nature and themselves. To support this vision, they’ve developed a holistic center offering yoga and sound therapy retreats, all organized by Céline, Marc and Karin’s daughter, who is also the Wellness Director and founder of Yuliaen.

“We wanted to create a space that reflects our values and our commitment to the environment, to sharing, and to transformation through travel. A place that embraces art, beauty, and poetry. We want our guests to find peace here,” Karin shares. At Villa La Tosca, located in the serene Bay of Arcachon, this vision comes to life. Zen gardens, massages, a natural swimming pool, sports sessions, and retreats—all are designed to help guests unwind. With the sound of the sea and the scent of pine trees, even a simple downward dog takes on a new, refreshing meaning compared to a city gym.