A light and airy barn conversion, very comfortable and rural, sitting on a hill with views to the south overlooking the Stour valley

A striking 200-year-old coaching inn in a sleepy village with a classic, traditional pub feel, superb food and wines, pretty bedrooms

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

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

Enjoy fields of lavender and vines as far as the eye can see from this neat cottage, sharing a pool and gorgeous gardens with other guests

Charming trulli apartments promise rustic comfort and panoramic views (horses too). Perfectly placed for exploring the area

A destination for epicurians who also want exquisite surroundings and comfortable bedrooms. A charming garden too with a very French feel

Manor house in the grounds of a quintessential 18th-century French château with pretty gardens and lots of space just 3kms from Bayeux

Thoughtful red brick barn conversion on a working farm. Peaceful, practical and within easy reach of outdoor activities

At the heart of fascinating Palermo, splendid aristocratic hosts welcome you to their historic family mansion filled with heirlooms

Come for a big gathering of friends or family and take the whole house plus an extra cottage in the pretty gardens – swim in the pool, relax

Vineyards, fruit trees and immaculate gardens, amazing food and wine, a sense of seclusion and sweeping views of the Tuscan hills

The privacy of a big terraced garden, a small decked pool and attractive, clutter-free rooms - close to harbour town bustle and restaurants

A super upside-down house perched on a cliff in bustling Saundersfoot with glorious views over the beach and the Atlantic