Charente

3 lovely cottages for cosy nights by the fire, table d'hôte dinners from a trained chef, summer barbecues by the pool

Rustic farm for lovers of history, nature, wine and Cognac, surrounded by fields yet ten minutes' drive from shops and restaurants

Take the scenic route through Cognac territory; return to a secluded cottage, plenty of good books, a wonderful pool and a candelit dinner

Re-wild yourselves here with loads of outdoor space and a river running through the garden: wild swim, cook outdoors, cycle and canoe

Riverside apartment minutes from the centre of town. Boat or canoe along the river, go wine or cognac tasting, explore the Atlantic coast

Come to eat your way round the nearby foodie markets, find one for each day; drive down the coast, discover sandy beaches and bustling towns

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool