A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

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

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

Four gîtes in the château’s vast barn, one in the tower. Magnificent mountain and valley views, and Sandrine’s regionally inspired meals

Come to the dramatic Côtes-d'Armor and three charming gîtes perched on the cliffs, just a short stroll down to the beach

A beautiful, homely place for groups and families with views of the Pyrenees from the garden and terrace - the perfect spot for sundowners

Charming 4-star gîte in an 11th-century castle in the foothills of the Pyrénées. Spectacular views, leafy terrace and wild swimming nearby

Come for pristine beaches, long walks to Barbate, sea views, whale watching trips and serene suites

An 18th-century limestone barn, now a quiet hideaway for a group of friends or family in a very rural spot surrounded by fields and woods

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

A welcoming inn with rooms on the edge of a small village. Stay in a converted barn in the pretty garden, eat delicious country fare

Superb views, scenic walks and a huge range of activities all within easy reach of this beautifully restored property

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Wander down a pebble path to this large, light holiday home near La Rochelle. Eco-friendly, accessible to all, and perfectly peaceful

Grade II-listed country hotel with lovely gardens and an excellent restaurant, a short walk from Ambleside and the top of Lake Windermere

A spacious and bright old sandstone farm building with private garden, all one one level and with lovely views over fields and countryside

Friendly hosts, lovely log fires, delicious dinners, interesting antiques – and Frederick’s special tours of a WWI memorial site

A beautiful main house, a romantic Tower and a lovely old wine barn for celebrations with family and friends