France

Pomegranates, persimmon and figs, the waft of rosemary on the air... we love this old 'mas' 25km from Gordes, in sweet sunny Provence

Perfect luxury in deepest Normandy: gorgeous gardens, a heavenly pool, and interiors worthy of an art gallery

In four acres of garden and woodland (a child’s dream) a house and interlinking barn for 10 guests. Secluded but close to everything

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

A large handsome 1800s manor, now a peaceful haven for free-range families and creative types on the edge of vibrant Richelieu in the Loire

Come for windswept beauty, wonderful sea views and swims, hearty walks and good vegetarian food at this island hideaway and spa

Inside, a grand cathedral ceiling, outside, wisteria-covered terrace and pretty pool. Atlantic sands, Cognac and La Rochelle are in reach

A serene retreat, deep in forested hills with lovely gardens, the river rushing through and a very comfortable, calming and spacious house

A beautiful old building with generous windows, arched doorways and opulent interiors in the glorious countryside by a fairy tale château

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

A lovely restored house on a farm beside a cluster of ancient buildings surrounded by lush forest and grasslands – a deeply rural spot

Elegant historic house set in acres of grounds transports you to a bygone belle époque (with all mod cons)

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

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

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

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

Elegantly restored mariner’s cottage with tasteful interiors and sweeping, uninterrupted views over the ever-changing estuary

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door