In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

A classic French beauty of a place; home to an engaging young family who love to entertain and look after you with great care

Lovely views from this converted farmhouse in peaceful Lot countryside, with terrace, sheltered pool and nine acres of grounds to explore

An ancient inn, spruce and restorative, in a picture-perfect village with open fires, tasty food and stylish, comfortable bedrooms

Two lovely cottages, packed with atmosphere, character and comfort in a magical timeless valley surrounded by nature

Gracious hosts, a mix of 17th-century style and contemporary design with comfort in spades, just minutes from the Rialto Bridge and market

Come on down to this working farm for delicious organic food, an on-site sourdough bakery and crisp bedrooms in a pretty farmhouse

A great spot for two plus two, with a decked area that gazes on copses, stream and treehouse. Wallow your cares away in the hot tub

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

A townhouse with a walled garden by the church in a peaceful village where friendly Scottish owners feed and look after you well

A dog-friendly hotel with traditional bedrooms, excellent breakfasts & a cool bar set on a peaceful side street, minutes from the centre

Close to Hexham's centre, a quietly charismatic Victorian home with fresh flowers, homemade bread, sunny courtyard and a friendly little dog

An eco renovation of an 1800s gamekeepers cottage, now a charming place for couples or families to immerse themselves in nature

Airy, spacious, sunny. This Lot gîte is a delight: linen curtains, oak stair, sunny pool. Sarlat and painted caves are an easy venture away

Modern comforts, traditional cosiness and a warm welcome. There are walks from the door, country houses to visit and a pub in the village

Magical for nature lovers, with wraparound views to the coastline of Skye. Inside: warmth, luxury and not a whisper from the wildest gale

Remote wartime research station turned stylish retreat with knockout views, wild walks and a front-row seat to the weather

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside