A big old house with a lovely pool, surrounded by ancient olives just 3kms from the sea and deep in the heart of Bandol wine country

Character and quirk in old and new design and furnishing – private terraces, a shared pool, great walking, cycling and wine-tasting

17th-century farmhouse full of colour and interest with friendly hosts and great breakfasts. Explore the Cotswolds - bring the dog too

Country house set in a secluded valley in a nature reserve with a pool & walks from the door. The small town of Jabugo is just over the hill

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

Wood-burners, water sports and wildlife at four cosy farm conversions a half mile from their own quay. Wild swimming and barbecues await

1800s coastal watchtower meets organic farm at a small hotel with a proud restaurateur and sea views from high mezzanine rooms

A truly special barn conversion, flooded with light and with its own decked outdoor space surrounded by bucolic countryside

20 minutes’ walk from Gordes and a hop from Aix, find grownup peace and minimalism for lovers of modern style and timeless Provence

Unwind here in the rolling hills with the river bustling along, your own secluded garden and an unpretentious cottage full of character

A family-run restaurant with rooms with a gorgeous sunny terrace overlooking the bustling harbour and delicious food in two dining spaces

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Be inspired by hilltop views, unwind in beamed rooms by huge fireplaces or scramble down to the beach for family adventures

Good food draws the crowds at this smart bar & restaurant with rooms in a quiet village sandwiched between Cornwall’s north and south coasts

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

Smart country inn in Constable country with lovely rooms and food - grab a picnic, hire a boat and drift along the river Stour