Superb rural views, excellent hiking and generous bedrooms. Cristina and Alec take good care of guests - the food is delicious

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

These five lovely apartments can only be taken as a group. Find a big communal sitting room and kitchen, saltwater pool and pretty garden

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

Traditional and modern, verging on the opulent. Find a stone-flagged tap room for walkers, top modern food and Chatsworth-perfect bedrooms

A traditional stone bergerie high on a hill and surrounded by woods with east-facing views over the valley for stunning sunrises

Designer cool suites, apartments, a villa – a sophisticated oasis of a place – near white sands, curious caves, turquoise sea, Lecce

A charming old cottage, steeped in history and in a stunning setting, close to the Coast Path and overlooking the bustling harbour at Fowey

A remote, rustic place for a digital detox - wildly romantic and perfect in summer with the doors open. Children can play in safety

A thoughtfully-renovated cottage in a small hamlet with garden, courtyard and pool. The peace is palpable but you're near to bustling Tusson

An exquisite Provençal home for a large party, hidden behind grand gates in a small village surrounded by the pine-scented Alpilles

Come for an authentic French village experience in this old stone house next to the church with glorious countryside for walks and cycles

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

A semi-detached 19th-century stone cottage, scrupulously renovated with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and terrace in a quiet spot

A fine old stone mill, the river rushing by, kingfishers, kayaking, swimming: it’s a dream place with Provence and Cévennes at the door

A beautifully-designed wooden lodge with hot tub on the deck, glass-front wood-burner, plenty of space and complete immersion in nature

Delightful hamlet of beautifully restored cottages with a pool, surrounded by fields, forest and deer. The perfect spot for a digital detox

A proper old-fashioned inn dating from the 1600s with beamed ceilings, low doorways and winding staircases up to comfortable bedrooms