Manor house in the grounds of a quintessential 18th-century French château with pretty gardens and lots of space just 3kms from Bayeux

Near Mont St Michel, an 18th-century 'maison de plaisance' in historic grounds run by a charming family. Don't miss the table d'hôte!

The living is easy here: laze in the subtropical garden, float in the saltwater pool, let the kids play and meet other guests over dinner

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Late 18th-century stone-built farmhouse in undulating countryside with wonderful walks from the door, golf nearby and much comfort within

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

A delightful mix of old and new in a conservation village with a four-acre garden that attracts all the local birds. Guests love it here

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

Foodies will love the irresistible cooking - along with local wine and a typically Tuscan setting. Bedrooms are pretty

On the site of an old sawmill in the mountains of the Jura, a guesthouse of warmth and charm - with table d'hôtes, a pool and a spa

An expansive and generous 13th-century Catalan farmhouse, restored with verve and colour in the Pyrenees - a wonderful spot for groups

A most enchanting and welcoming Provençal mas sitting in acres of private parkland with woods, meadows and a small lake for magical stays

With breathtaking views of the hills above Nice, a splendid villa with big bedrooms, shimmering infinity pool, and generous, fun owners

Unwind in a beautiful old mill house on the banks of the Célé river, surrounded by high limestone cliffs for outstanding walks and wildlife

Tradition and comfort on the border with Wales, a welcoming country-house hotel with warm rooms, pretty gardens and delicious food

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

Immerse yourself in over ten thousand olive trees, wander through lemon and orange groves, eat wonderful food cooked by a Pugliese chef

The perfect country cottage made of pretty Quercy stone, with generously sized rooms and outside dining with gorgeous rural views