France

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

The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store

A big old house with a lovely pool, surrounded by ancient olives just 3kms from the sea and deep in the heart of Bandol wine country

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards

Rural French heaven at this lovely farm within four hectares. Natural materials, neutral colours and a lavender-lined pool all to yourselves

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

A beautifully renovated apartment in a quiet street in central Bordeaux, with fine old features and all modernities. Ideal for couples

High in the Beaujolais is this wonderful B&B - vast views, a big pool in a half-wild garden, and the best cuisine for miles

A botanical beauty deep in the Loire Valley, this elegant house has history and heart in abundance

Readers adore this place run by warm, generous sisters Renée and Claude. Stroll the wild gardens - follow a path into the lovely landscape

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

A luxurious eco-retreat plus extra room in the Space Conker in private woodland with breathtaking views to the Chaîne des Aravis and Mont Blanc

Lovingly renovated farmhouse amid vines and sunflowers, deep in the Charente countryside - small pool in garden, beaches 45 minutes away.

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

Come for peace, comfort and beauty in a sunny corner of Provence at the foot of Mont Ventoux. Cafes, market, restaurants a 15-minute stroll!

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

A working farm with well renovated ancient buildings among 200 acres of pastures and forest. It's quiet here in the glorious Périgord

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