Luxury travel specialist Simpson Travel has announced a significant expansion of its European footprint with the acquisition of South France Villas. The deal, which was officially completed on August 4, 2026, marks another milestone in the tour operator’s ambitious growth strategy, further cementing its reputation as a leading provider of bespoke holiday experiences.
The acquisition brings a premium selection of high-end properties into the Simpson Travel portfolio, specifically across the Languedoc region and the iconic stretch of the Côte d’Azur and the French Riviera. This move follows closely on the heels of the company’s successful 2025 acquisition of Affinity Villas, which introduced a popular and high-performing Portuguese programme to its offerings.
Simpson Travel leadership noted that they have been monitoring the steady growth and reputation of South France Villas for several years. The synergy between the two companies, both of which prioritize a personalized, high-touch approach to luxury travel, made the merger a natural fit.
The transition marks the retirement of South France Villas’ owners, Trudi and Niall Andrews, who expressed complete confidence in the future of their legacy. “Simpson Travel is rightly regarded as one of the UK’s leading specialist tour operators, and we couldn’t have wished for a better home for South France Villas,” said Trudi Andrews. “It is a real pleasure to know our clients will now enjoy the exceptional service Simpson is known for.”
To ensure continuity and maintain the intimate local knowledge for which South France Villas was known, the firm has retained key personnel. Sandra Macdonald, a veteran of the villa rental sector with over 20 years of experience, will transition from the South France Villas team to become Simpson Travel’s new Portfolio Manager for the South of France. Based near Béziers, Macdonald’s deep understanding of the region and long-standing client relationships are expected to be pivotal as the two businesses integrate.
Ed Pyke, CEO of Simpson Travel, welcomed the expansion, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the “spirit” of the acquired brand. “We’ve admired South France Villas for a long time, not just for the properties, but for the way Trudi and Niall have built real relationships with their guests over the years,” Pyke stated. “Bringing the business into Simpson Travel means we can carry that spirit forward while opening up some exciting new corners of France for our own guests to discover. We’re also delighted to have Sandra on board. Her knowledge of the region, and the care she clearly takes with every client, made her the obvious person to lead this next chapter for us.”
As Simpson Travel integrates its new French assets, the company is expected to continue its trajectory as a premier boutique operator, leveraging its broadened regional expertise to cater to an increasingly discerning international clientele.
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