France

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

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

Great for gatherings of family and friends: fine views, a good big kitchen, games room and pool; nearby caves and castles to explore

Laze in the pool, nibble olives from the market, gaze over Provence. Inside, English meets classic French. Fabulous for families

A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

An immaculately restored cottage with a blissful sun room, private terrace, gardens, pool and orchard for a warm and peaceful hideaway

A peaceful spot for this beautifully restored old barn surrounded by lovely gardens and a sparkling pool on the banks of the Dordogne river

Come for a watery setting by the crystal clear canal (with canoe!) and an elegant house packed with interest, lovely art, much comfort

A charming old village house with very pretty gardens, stone terrace, orchard and lovely views from lofty windows

Lovely views from this converted farmhouse in peaceful Lot countryside, with terrace, sheltered pool and nine acres of grounds to explore

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

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

Superb views, scenic walks and a huge range of activities all within easy reach of this beautifully restored property

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

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

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

An 18th-century limestone barn, now a quiet hideaway for a group of friends or family in a very rural spot surrounded by fields and woods

Four gîtes in the château’s vast barn, one in the tower. Magnificent mountain and valley views, and Sandrine’s regionally inspired meals