France

There's a pared-back unforced elegance to this stone barn sitting quietly in its own grounds beside a cobbled courtyard awash with roses

Two restored mill buildings in the serene French countryside, with river views and artful interiors – a peaceful self-catering escape

Large, unpretentious and very comfortable family house in splendid isolation with swimming pool, tennis court and well-tended gardens

A renovated barn, part stone, part wood, resembling the tobacco barns of the area with beautiful grounds surrounded by farmland

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

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

A grand old chartreuse, dating from 1649, with terrace, garden and pool surrounded by tranquil countryside and near a pretty village

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

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

A welcoming retreat with lofty rooms, a sunny garden and the perfect plunge pool. Come for slow days and wine country adventures

In the shadow of a Norman château on the Cherbourg Peninsula, a cosy house for three with private parking and restaurants outside the door

Fine contemporary interiors within this half-timbered hillside villa, built with natural materials and with a beautiful pool and jacuzzi

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

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

Groups will love this 18th-century winemaster’s house and tower. There’s a hillside infinity pool, valley views and a private boulodrome

The central part of a much larger building in a 17th-century hamlet with bright, spacious rooms, shared pool and glorious private gardens