VFB Holidays – the award-winning pioneer of gîte holidays to France – is shortly to add a very special new property to its already- impressive portfolio of self-catering villas, apartments and cottages throughout France.

To mark its 40th anniversary, the French specialist tour operator, which also offers short breaks throughout Europe, has gained special permission to offer exclusive stays in Gustav Eiffel’s former office at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

Says Jonathan Blizard, General Manager of VFB: “After considerable negotiation, it has been agreed that, outside the main summer months of July and August 2010, VFB can offer the small self-catering apartment, which forms part of the tower’s offices and was occasionally used by Gustav Eiffel as his pied à terre, for rental to our clients.  We hope to start on 1st April, running to 30th June, and then again from 1st September, thus avoiding the peak season crowds.

“This is a real coup for VFB – we will be the only operator anywhere in the world offering this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. There can be no better place to stay in Paris – certainly for its unbeatable views of the city – than the iconic Eiffel Tower.  Having the viewing platform to oneself outside the tower’s normal opening hours offers the perfect place to propose, or to celebrate a big birthday or anniversary. We anticipate very high demand for Valentine’s week 2011 in particular”, commented Blizard.

VFB Holidays is still finalising details of the contract and special insurance policies applicable and plans to offer the apartment from around £1,000 per night (two sharing). Return travel by Eurostar from St Pancras and a complimentary bottle of champagne in the apartment on arrival will be included in the price. 

VFB Holidays brochures include France - Cottage & Villa Holidays; Classic Interludes & River Cruises; France à la Carte; Corsica and Italy. Its online Short Breaks programme features value for money getaways that often include exhibition or event tickets in the package price.