France

A spacious family haven in the hills of the Var, with harmonious gardens, a child-safe pool, a summer kitchen, and a mesmerising view

A stone built 18th-century tower in a pretty valley dotted with fruit trees for quiet and relaxed days recuperating from life in the city

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

A lovely gîte with cool lines and its own shady terrace plus pool, gardens, fountain and a relaxed family-friendly feel

Come for a romantic cottage, set within the beautiful grounds of the Domaine yet very private, with pretty mown paths for strolls

Exposed beams and stone walls mix with modern art and minimalism to give a warm yet uncluttered luxury. Stylish yet relaxing

A gorgeous, art-filled house in one of France's Plus Beaux Villages, perched on a hill and with stunning views from the spacious terraces

A lovely, rambling old house for family gatherings with an extra cottage for bigger groups, a gorgeous garden and hilltop villages nearby

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

Inspiring scenery for this lavender farm near a Provençal village. Rustic eco-friendly cottages, a hump-backed bridge, a hammock by the natural pool

A lovely old traditional mas, built around a courtyard with lots of outdoor space and rambling gardens for happy gatherings, and sunny days

Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

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

Five sumptuous suites arranged around a sunny internal courtyard inside an ancient Augustinian monastery with original clock tower

An island of oyster farms, salt pans and white beaches, woolly donkeys, countless push-bikes and the odd celeb – we love the Ile de Ré!

Wrapped in fields and woods, this big traditional house has crisply furnished interiors and plenty of gadgets. Terraced gardens and pool too

Style abounds in this exquisite Côte d'Azur family getaway, where lazy days are whiled away by the pool and in the quiet bird-filled gardens

A finely crafted staircase, a friendly owner next door, an Alpine garden to die for - groups large and small will love this old watermill