An organic farm near coast, village and Etna – super for families, done in simple good taste. Laze in the hammock, visit the coast...

Elegant, charming home in leafy, peaceful garden - pâtisserie courses and good dinners. Champagne vineyards and historic Provins are nearby

Swap the mêlée for privacy and wonderful views. Delicious meals, an outdoor hot tub and Portes du Soleil skiing on your doorstep

A tucked-away and peaceful retreat from which to explore the beautiful Dordogne or simply to unwind and recharge

Wonky floors and handmade beds in a restored coaching inn for 4, 6 or 8 - sociable evenings round the farmhouse table, walks from the door

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

An authentic, charming and spacious home with garden, pool and lake, deep in the Dordogne valley and decorated with uncluttered elegance

Down by the shore of Clew Bay, enjoy peace, space and modern comforts (kitchens are excellent) and discover this magical watery world

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

A beautifully-restored Georgian farmhouse at the end of a lane, with ancient pastures and orchards filled with wildflowers and streams

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

Tucked away in a tiny gem of a village and clustered around its own château, this delightful 17th-century building is a joy to discover

Stylishly renovated farmhouse perfect for families and friends looking for a taste of the good life where kids can run free.

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

Vast rooms, thick stone walls and ancient flagged floors skilfully modernised to create comfort, surrounded by romantic château gardens

Three tranquil apartments in the Ria Formosa nature reserve with a stunning natural pool, near to a village and sandy beaches

Elegant rooms behind a popular village pub with country walks from the door, and the spectacular Peak District and stately homes nearby