France

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

A beautifully renovated traditional manor house with extensive gardens and orchard, a pool with a deck in a meadow and a terrace for dining

Stylish gîte in a picturesque hilltop town, with shops and restaurants a short walk away and pretty Provençal towns on your doorstep

Surrounded by vines and swept by sea breezes, two lovely, simple gîtes with a gorgeous shared pool and a courtyard for boules

Everything you need is here: a wood-burner for winter, a pool and spacious terraces for summer, and peace and beauty all year round

Outside a perfect bastide village, an elegant manoir for lazy days in the Dordogne, fabulous dinners and glorious gardens

Come for the great outdoors. Return to your base - one of two independent cottages secluded in softly rolling Breton countryside

A privilege to be able to stay within the famous gardens of magnificent Château de Courances. The painter's village of Barbizon is nearby

Stylish and spoiling B&B in a Renaissance château with outdoor pool, vast grounds, valley views and the Dordogne at your feet

Chatty Madame is a superb cook, and her pretty house and garden in a quiet Yvelines village are equally delicious. Zip to Paris by train

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

Two friendly gites on a former farm between Montpellier and Nimes, with amazing views, a huge shared pool, and delicious dinners an option

An enchanting and relaxed château and vineyard by the river Cher in the exquisite Loire Valley - you're looked after by gracious hosts

Three comfortable, modern apartments with private terraces, a lovely garden to wander, a pool, a vineyard and views of rolling hills

A large and light house sitting by itself in lovely countryside with a big pool, maturing gardens and superb views up to Saignon on the hill

Wine lovers adore this impeccably furnished château; lovely Anne meets and greets, Jean Christophe makes wine and takes charge of tastings

In wine country, a beautifully revived 16th-century manor and hospitable B&B. Visit Angers’ cathedral, cruise along the Loire to Saumur