France

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

Come for much comfort in both buildings which face each other across the garden, plus a pool, lake, yoga and fitness studios

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

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

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

Three comfortable stone houses clustered around the owners' home. Glorious views spread out below you across rolling countryside

Two elegant village houses for big happy gatherings of friends and family with a yoga studio, spacious courtyard and glistening pool

A hop from the Côte d'Azur is this elegant home: bring friends, explore the garden, curl up on the sofa, dip in the heated pool

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

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

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

Gaze over sublime vistas, refresh in the plunge pool, cook up a barbecue treat. A Provençal studio, simply furnished and deeply relaxing

Come to this charming hideaway cabin for two (plus one) facing Lac de Montriond for a back-to-nature escape near Morzine

An exquisite Provençal home for a large party, hidden behind grand gates in a small village surrounded by the pine-scented Alpilles

A light-filled studio with a sweet private terrace on the estate of a 16th-century manor - river views, glorious gardens and pure peace

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

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