Come for huge skies, birds and wildlife, rare flora and fauna, precious pingo ponds and a comforting retreat from the hectic whirl

An impressive, south-facing bastide on three floors with a sunny pool, lovely garden and grounds that stretch to vineyards and garrigue

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

Go with the slow - homemade delights, no plastic anything, few mod cons - just relaxed humorous hosts and a beautiful place

A heartwarming 250-year-old pub with roaring fires in the flagged bar, attractive bedrooms and a special welcome for children and dogs

A converted stable on a peaceful farm surrounded by acres of countryside - a Sawday's Community Champion

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

A beautifully renovated apartment in a quiet street in central Bordeaux, with fine old features and all modernities. Ideal for couples

An ivy-covered old mill, newly restored as an inn with a relaxed feel, acres of manicured grounds, comfortable bedrooms and great food

Bountiful breakfasts, the warmest of owners and Breton adventures. Enjoy romantic ruins, quaint villages and delicious seafood suppers

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

Settle into an unhurried pace of life on the coast. Comfortable houses and an eco-friendly garden; yoga, massages and riding can be arranged

Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

Light-filled retreat full of character and vintage finds, with handmade touches and farm-fresh produce on your doorstep

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

Come to be looked after with delicious food and spoiling bedrooms in this mini stately home set in gorgeous parkland near Ludlow