Come to the wild Cévennes to hike, ride, kayak down the Hérault river – or just revel in your pretty, generous house, pool and garden space

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

A majestic renovation of a Victorian 'model' farm with underfloor heating, open plan design, light bright lines and not a whiff of IKEA

At the gates of a country estate, two quirky hexagonal lodge houses with private outdoor seating and acres of grounds for walks and picnics

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

Artists, poets, nature lovers, walkers and dreamers will be happy in this simple, airy suite surrounded by a fecund garden and much peace

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes

Picturesque cottage in the grounds of a grand manor, lovingly and creatively restored by its welcoming English owner

Unwind here in the rolling hills with the river bustling along, your own secluded garden and an unpretentious cottage full of character

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

Get away from it all in the heart of Northumberland National Park, with walks leaving from your door and incredible dark skies at night

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

Taste the wine, plunge into the granite pool, play billiards in the library, linger outdoors as swallows swoop – eat delicious local dishes

A charming 17th-century village inn, a destination place for foodies and real beer lovers, with very comfortable and stylish bedrooms

Traditional bedrooms lie under the beams of this fascinating country mansion - a grand, hospitable B&B near St Malo and sand beaches

For walkers and lovers of wildly beautiful coastal country: two cosy old cottages and a bright, modern renovation in a cluster with others