France

Great value, light-filled rooms close to beaches and thalassotherapy spas. Françoise and Bertrand are cheerful, indefatigable hosts

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

Charming cottage in a vast garden with a swimming pool and boule; walk to the nearest village, drive to Côte d'Azur in less than an hour

Great romantic B&B. Dunk in the pool, go wine-tasting, hang out in trendy Cap Ferret then back to unwind in total peace

Warm wood interiors, crackling log fires whenever the weather dips to ‘chilly’ and mountain views from some of the big bedrooms - magical

English checks blend with French toile de Jouy, your hosts leave you a tasty welcome pack and outside a pool, barbecue and lazing terrace

Eat in the sheltered, quirky, outdoor dining area, enjoy Madame's colourful garden in its village setting - ideal for those on a budget

Pretty stone cottage with welcoming hosts and delicious dinners; sit out in the garden, swim in the pool, explore both Brittany and Normandy

A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons. Bliss for family gatherings

A beautifully and personally decorated family house for ten with pretty pool, games galore and fabulous Provence at your feet

A charming stone cottage (all beams and toile de Jouy) in the owner's substantial grounds, suitable for a family, and the sea a step away

A fabulous place for families or close friends, and don’t miss table d’hôtes: your hosts are great chefs, and run cookery classes

A country retreat, this airy suite has a crackling fireplace and warm wooden floors to cheer and hearten after a day roaming the hills...

Rural Luberon loveliness - vineyards, lavender fields, long peaceful views. Perfect medieval villages, good restaurants and brimming markets

17th-century stone house in a peaceful village surrounded by forest & wildlife. Morning pastries & evening drinks at the bar a stroll away

A solid family-and-friends house not far from Cannes. Laze by the pool with a book and a beer as the kids romp in the rufty-tufty garden

Gracious hosts pamper guests in their family mansion, with a wellness spa, fire-warmed lounge and four-course meals from a talented chef

Sip fizz on your terrace, loll by the pool. For relaxation try reflexology, on a cool day snuggle by the wood-burner. Brittany bliss