French Rural Retreats

You’re in the heart of untamed countryside here, beside the river Oise, welcomed by friendly hosts who cook and care for you

Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

A bright, colourful lodge, part of an 18th-century abbey with a private garden, swimming pool, books, games and a cosy fire

Unwind in a beautiful old mill house on the banks of the Célé river, surrounded by high limestone cliffs for outstanding walks and wildlife

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Find beauty and tranquillity on this historic Dordogne estate for up to fourteen - plus a feast of designer colour and a fine pool to share

20 minutes’ walk from Gordes and a hop from Aix, find grownup peace and minimalism for lovers of modern style and timeless Provence

A fine old stone mill, the river rushing by, kingfishers, kayaking, swimming: it’s a dream place with Provence and Cévennes at the door

Cosily colourful bedrooms and large luxurious bathrooms; relax among the lovely antiques after a day's exploring. Great host, too

Art-inspired B&B in a former silkworm factory. Swim in the eco-pool, feast on delicious food, explore Avignon, Arles and Roman ruins

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

A traditional Périgordine house with a typical tall roof on the outskirts of Trémolat. Come with friends and take the barn next door too

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Charming 17th century bakehouse in tranquil countryside. Perfect for exploring Brittany and Normandy - only 20km to Le Mont-Saint-Michel

A tucked-away and peaceful retreat from which to explore the beautiful Dordogne or simply to unwind and recharge

A grand, 16th-century Breton château complete with dovecote, turret and chapel surrounded by 50 acres of parkland, woods and small lake

A gem of a château in the wilds of Limousin with kind and thoughtful owners who are thoroughly immersed in this tranquil area

Come to be charmed by this gem of a house, for grand châteaux and lounging on the terrace with a glass of the excellent local wine