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

Antiques abound in this luminous, chestnut beamed 18th-century farmhouse. Hop off to the market, dip in the lake, lap up medieval Motguyon

Unwind comfortably indoors, or out in the walled garden - fly a kite in the field, take a bike to taste local wines, head for the Atlantic

Close to St Jean d’Angely, an elegant manor house with stylish interiors, bucolic views and a big garden for free range children

Quirky lights and vintage 60s pieces add character to an immaculate home bathed in light and serenity – launch pad for stylish temptations

Find history and splendour in bucketfuls on this huge, friendly, wooded domaine. A winning combination of modern luxury and ancient peace

A smart and friendly hotel in a charming Edwardian town for old-style holidays: safe sandy beaches, cycling, visits for all the family

Take a spin to the brilliant beaches or chic shops of St Martin, or dip in the spotless pool before a delicious terrace tea with pâtisseries

Designed with style and comfort, peaceful, sophisticated and serene with countryside views. And you have your own lovely pool

10 minutes from La Rochelle, a place of peace and style. From scrumptious breakfasts to a splash in the pool, your hosts are eager to please

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

Rooms at Anne and Frédéric’s calm island hotel each have a distinctive style, from colonial to cottagey. Delicious fish is served at dinner

2 peaceful gites and 4 B&B rooms surrounded by fields of vines - with a pool to share and La Grande Maison an easy drive

Charming, lively hosts welcome you to a great big lived-in house with watery views and an eclectic vibe. Families and foodies, stay a while

In fashionable St Martin, a wonderfully peaceful little cottage, quaint, simple and pretty, a hop to the white sand beaches of Île de Ré

Madame's warm, gracious welcome, her delightful home and magnificent garden are a reat treat - good value too!

Minutes from sandy beaches south of La Rochelle, your humorous hosts serve breakfast by an immaculate pool. Toys and bikes to borrow, too

Vineyards and pines, beaches and dunes… and a house to fall in love with close to sea, in the village of Sainte Marie. All-year-round heaven