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

Vast house on an ancient Roman site with big terraced garden and pool. Grand yet homely, with air-con, spa and only 8 km to the city

Simple but stylishly furnished village house, terrific hill-top views, low-impact design, organic cooking and a hot tub; utterly peaceful

Picturesque cottage in the grounds of a grand manor, lovingly and creatively restored by its welcoming English owner

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards

Two lovely old cottages, part of the 1700 stable block on the St Giles estate, with 5,000 acres to roam, for walkers and peace seekers

Family-run B&B in traditional trulli with hands-on hosts. Swim in the pool, explore the countryside, the coast is half an hour’s drive away

A lovely villa in the Sóller valley close to stunning beaches, secret coves and a dramatic mountain range. Mallorca never fails to seduce

Sleek modern interiors now grace this ancient building with architectural joys, a courtyard garden and rooftop terrace with views

Cottages, rooms and apartments on an historic 18th-century family estate with gorgeous gardens, a shared pool and a view-filled terrace