Such lovely views from this light-filled flat, built in the 19th century – curl up with a book and gaze out to sea

An attractive converted stable with covered veranda, private garden and views over rolling countryside, minutes from the coast

Submerge yourself in a magical landscape of sky, water and hills from this well-thought-out retreat, where silence reigns and peace is deep

Fresh sea air, drowsy afternoons and nights of warmth and company against the backdrop of the sea in this big old house on Lyme Bay

Enjoy a bucolic setting (hike, ride, cycle) near medieval Vannes, a short hop from the sea – and lively conversation with friendly hosts

Relaxed, bohemian vibe out in the wilds yet close to civilization. An organic garden and woodland yurt add to the convivial, communal idyll

Your own private suite in the wing of a traditional Burgundian winemaker's house in a tiny hamlet, surrounded by fields of vines

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

Refined B&B in a pretty forest setting just north of the French Basque country, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and delicious food

An extraordinary, inspiring place: eat 100% vegan food, drink organic wine, sleep in natural materials, swim in the salt-water pool

A stunning setting for this B&B - the village a thousand feet below you and views to both snow-capped Alps and Provence lavender fields

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

Perched in gorgeous gardens and with stunning views, this 18th-century presbytery has lovely rooms and an excellent gourmet restaurant

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

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

A delightful mix of old and new in a conservation village with a four-acre garden that attracts all the local birds. Guests love it here

Once a lofty edifice for music recitals, now an original place to stay - with stained-glass windows, a bed on a stage and wild gardens