An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

An eye-catching ancient inn with a colourful flower garden in summer, delicious local food and very presentable bedrooms

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

Lovely owners have created this quirky space on their farm; side-by-side al fresco baths make it romantic for two

A sweet bolthole around a courtyard on a smallholding, extremely comfortable, bright and spacious inside and with a communal garden

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

A lovely, rambling old house for family gatherings with an extra cottage for bigger groups, a gorgeous garden and hilltop villages nearby

You're overlooking the main square in medieval Umbertide from this cosy, second-floor apartment, so you'll feel very much like a local

A spacious, luxurious family retreat, remote but close to Audierne. Watch surfers shoot the waves as seagulls wheel above

João & Ana Luisa's stunning cottages superbly blend contemporary and traditional styles. Vineyards, beaches and restaurants are all close

In a commanding position surrounded by private land, this old manor house is excellently equipped and ideal for a big family holiday

In the middle of the National Park and surrounded by the Coquet Hills, come for dark skies, fabulous walking and a very comfortable cottage

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

Nestled in lovely grounds, this country pub serves up cracking food and real ales. Wonderful walks nearby, comfy rooms to rest for the night

Tranquil retreat with pool, pétanque and spa – the perfect base for exploring historic Poitiers, châteaux and wonderful wine country