A bright and airy 50s townhouse in a residential suburb with large, light bedrooms and a sparkling pool – cycle into gorgeous countryside

2 super family apartments in the unspoilt Serre Chevalier valley, with a private chef if you’d like one, and delightful Pippa to welcome you

Rolling lawns, Georgian glamour and countryside views – gather the gang for slow days, wild walks and starry Northumberland skies

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants

Charming, vivacious hosts make you feel welcome at this splendid 16th-century home. Cooking classes, wine pairing and excellent regional food

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

A light, bright, art-filled space with private garden on a quiet residential street just a short walk from shops, markets and good food

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

Well-positioned winery for the whole of the Bordeaux region. Or stay put and learn about the Duhamels’ super organic Cotes de Bourg wines

Art-filled and atmospheric, with stunning sea views and a sunny walled garden. Just moments from the beaches and charms of Lyme Regis

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

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

A perfectly renovated farmhouse in the grounds of a delightful château deep in the Normandy countryside, with a lovely walled garden