For lovers of tranquillity and the great outdoors – come for simple pleasures not mod cons - loads to explore, a pool, a tennis court

Soak up the scenery from a kayak, lap up the market at St Antonin, stroll to a chateau for a wine tasting, bask by the beautiful pool

Chestnut floors, exposed stone, comfortable bedrooms. Picnic with the family in the large walled garden, splash in the saltwater pool

Come for brilliant Gascon food and cookery courses, and beauty and sophistication at every turn - nothing pretentious, pompous, or twee

A pretty little gîte, comfortable and cosy with doors straight out to lawns and terraces, and 7 acres to explore and a pool to splash in

Arrive as strangers, leave as friends! Readers love this gracious mansion, its airy, cheery bedrooms and its delightful Australian owners

Nestled in a quiet wooded enclave with views to Najac’s medieval castle, a convivial country house and pool for families and friends

A paradise for nature lovers - hunt for wild orchids and butterflies in the flower meadows, spot birds, walk the local footpaths. Wonderful

Utterly private spot for families and couples looking for somewhere to retreat from city life and gently unwind

A rare treat for lovers of history and architecture (and lovers!)… close your eyes and imagine yourself in 14th-century France

Wake to the sound of (night-silent) church bells at this gracious house. Main rooms breathe tradition and space, the garden is delightful

A magical Pyrenees setting. Your hosts are passionate about the Ariège & will give you ideas for trips: swimming, cycling, caving, wellbeing

Culinary treats for foodies, bedrooms for style seekers and a fabulous area of France to discover – welcome to a country retreat

Superbly comfortable house with beamed rooms, lovely views, a club-like morning room, art and antiques, terrace, pool and lily pond

Tranquillity and seclusion in ‘French Tuscany’ - and within easy reach of civilisation. A wonderful family-party house with gardens and pool

Space to breathe and beautiful cooking, with stunning views across the Lot valley views from the dining terrace and most rooms

Tudor 4-posters and a terrace with views at this magnificent watchtower in a listed hamlet in the Lot valley. Plus garden and pool

Quirky old convent school near Albi. Wander down for a river dip, doze in the hammock or sit by the fire in the elegantly laid-back salon...