trends-2026

In 2025, holiday homes in Belgium and Luxembourg remained in high demand overall. The period from January to March started more slowly, as it often does, but the year still delivered strong occupancy. Summer demand from families and larger groups was slightly weaker than in some previous years, yet the overall picture stayed positive and many owners experienced a solid season.

In the segment of couple suites and holiday homes for two to eight guests, supply has grown significantly. As a result, guests increasingly choose based on clear differentiators and a coherent quality standard. Strong booking drivers include a jacuzzi or sauna, a prime location, and modern, well-maintained interiors. Allowing dogs has become a particularly noticeable advantage, because pet-friendly properties receive additional demand and can achieve more stable occupancy.

In Belgium, booking behavior shows a clear pattern. Peak holiday weeks are often booked far in advance, while the off-season is frequently filled through discounted last-minute offers.

France performed very well in 2025 in the luxury villa and high-end holiday home segment, especially during summer. However, there was more availability in the shoulder seasons. For 2026, the expectation is that booking decisions will become even more spontaneous in France. Early bookers will still secure the widest choice, but the overall momentum is likely to shift further toward later bookings and last-minute demand.

Ibiza and Mallorca also had a stable year in 2025. During peak summer, occupancy levels of up to around ninety percent were achievable. At the same time, the pre- and post-season often offer many open dates, creating real deal opportunities for flexible travelers. For 2026, interest is expected to remain strong, particularly in the luxury segment, which supports stable pricing. Mallorca could also become more expensive due to rising service and hotel-related costs combined with strong international demand and relatively limited premium supply.

When comparing last-minute deals with early booking, the rule of thumb remains consistent. Flights often benefit from early booking because prices and connections are easier to secure. Holiday homes in the South of France, Ibiza, and Mallorca can offer excellent last-minute deals, but the trade-off is reduced selection.

Group stays, team-building trips, bachelor and bachelorette celebrations, and small-company retreats were a clear winner trend in 2025 and are expected to keep growing in 2026. Large houses in Belgium and the Ardennes are attractive because they offer many bedrooms and high capacity. They also provide a “luxury for relatively less” experience by reducing typical hotel costs such as expensive drinks, restaurant spending, and staffing surcharges. More and more companies choose holiday homes to run private, exclusive, and efficient meetings, workshops, or retreats.

For 2026, prices in Belgium and the Netherlands are expected to increase, driven by VAT changes. A rise of roughly five to ten percent is widely anticipated.

As competition increases, especially in smaller-capacity categories, professional positioning becomes more important. A clear target group, the right amenities, a consistent quality concept, and strong presentation are increasingly critical for long-term occupancy. Exclusivity and expert guidance matter more because they help properties stand out in a crowded market.