French Rural Retreats

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

A sylvan hideaway tucked into the hills of the Southern Alps, full of Provençal charm inside and out – Saint-Cézaire and the coast are close

A cosy and pretty old cottage for rest or romance, with garden and pool in a small hamlet surrounded by walnut orchards and mixed woodland

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

A thatched farmhouse only just over the channel near Rouen that’s well hidden in lush gardens, but worth finding for the gourmet food alone

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

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

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

Peace, space, nature in the Champagne-hugged Somme valley - and home-grown, organic meals with generous French hosts. Family-perfect

A hop to Montpellier, but deep in the countryside: a romantic pad, with Moroccan rugs, ochre-limed walls and bikes to ride into the country

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

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Near lively Lyon, this handsome family house is perfect for a Zen-like escape with delicious vegetarian meals and well-travelled hosts

A gorgeous setting for this elegant Bordelais house sitting handsome on top of the hill and surrounded by vines, woodland and valley views

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

Glorious airy living space in this superbly restored barn, a terrace with long views and a pool across the garden - bikes to borrow too