Bring boots, maps, your dog and an appetite for high places and deep comfort in this restored farm conversion

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

A converted 18th-century chapel in the heart of Bruton with an all-day restaurant, in-house bakery, wine store and south-facing terrace

A very special place to stay, immersed in the architecture and history of the city as well as its traditions, culture, food and wine

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

This architect-designed passive style house sits just behind the sand dunes at Waxham beach, one of Norfolk’s most lovely beaches

Gather your favourites for a getaway in deepest France. Bike the countryside, dip in the heated pool and sprawl out in this inviting space

A lovely, long barn-style conversion with much space, stunning views across the spectacular bay and a secret beach to stroll to

Lovingly renovated farmhouse amid vines and sunflowers, deep in the Charente countryside - small pool in garden, beaches 45 minutes away.

Tucked away privately in part of a spectacular listed manor house, this apartment has wonderful views across to Hartland and the sea

Medieval manor house and busy farm. A welcoming atmosphere, big bedrooms, breakfast in the baronial great hall by the cosy log fire

A lovely old stone house with a covered veranda and sparkling pool in a small hilltop hamlet overlooking a lush forested valley

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant