France

Near Carcassonne, a treat to stay in this ancient château circled by gracious gardens - only the village church bells disturb the peace

An old stone cottage 30 minutes from the sea that feels like coming home, with a wild garden in which to blow off steam and bikes to borrow

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners

In lavender fields between Avignon and Valence, a convivial Provençal house with pool and bikes; walks are superb, Madame delightful

Pippa tells you where to find wild flowers, babbling brooks and butterflies... and hike, bike and swim. Magic for families

Airy, spacious, sunny. This Lot gîte is a delight: linen curtains, oak stair, sunny pool. Sarlat and painted caves are an easy venture away

A beautiful house with Pyrenean views, generous hosts and wonderful hiking, biking and skiing nearby. A rare pearl

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

A designer's delight: a bright, eco restoration perfect for a party of five. The Luberon lies at your feet... medieval villages abound

Find exposed timbers, a fabulous pool, and beautiful new suites in the garden. Head to Perche for a day, return for a dinner of local fare

Personalised wine tours from this lovely old wine-grower's house, and serene sober bedrooms to return to - an enchanting address

In a beautiful mountain valley in the Jura is this warm stylish restaurant with rooms, a hop in the car from historic Poligny

Elegant, charming home in leafy, peaceful garden - pâtisserie courses and good dinners. Champagne vineyards and historic Provins are nearby

A treat for foodies, families and watersport enthusiasts. A small hotel with a big heart in the stylish seaside resort of La Baule

Come for authentic restoration, chic Savoyard décor, breathtaking views of the Portes du Soleil, and a chairlift a 7-minute drive

Tall, former flour mill on a curve in the road with a truly peaceful garden. Stay in for suppers with homegrown vegetables and herbs

Mountain treks, coastal strolls, a big pool and urban culture on the doorstep. This rambling villa makes for the ultimate group getaway

Two homely gîtes sleeping 4 and 2 in rural farm country. Walk to a good restaurant in five minutes, and Saint-Malo is a 15-minute drive away