Come for the utter silence and the rare beauty of this far north-westerly landscape, teeming with wildlife. An antidote to city life

Between Paris and Rouen, a handsome country house in Monet scenery. Cows graze, bedrooms soothe, friendships bud over bountiful breakfasts

Such lovely views from this light-filled flat, built in the 19th century – curl up with a book and gaze out to sea

Stylish hotel for couples and families on the side of a peaceful Cotswold hill with big views, a choice of rooms and a 500-acre estate

Three lovely places to stay - come for much charm, peace, sunsets, infinity pool, sauna and gym in this history-steeped countryside retreat

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

Log fires smoulder, rooms are comfortable, the food is delicious and there's bags of character at this old village pub – once a cider house

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

A cottage to help you feel restored and refreshed; uninterrupted views of the coast, a hamper of local produce and wildlife spotting.

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

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

An open-plan kitchen, sunny terrace and fruitful gardens shine at this private hillside villa. From here, it's easy to ski, swim or sunbathe

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

Gorgeous rooms, delicious food, gardens and lake to explore, a spoiling spa with indoor pool and much comfort between moors and the sea

A grand old Georgian building with a big old welcoming atmosphere, roaring fires, delicious food, ales and wine, warm and calming bedrooms

A swishly renovated detached hideaway up a hill, surrounded by vineyards and with a covered deck for sweeping views just outside Beaune

A pretty stone single-storey house, now renovated beautifully into a comfortable hideaway with wonderful views to woodland and river