Great for gatherings of family and friends: fine views, a good big kitchen, games room and pool; nearby caves and castles to explore

At the foot of the Cambrian Mountains, an ancient whitewashed cottage with cosy, light-flooded interiors – a perfect rural bolthole for two

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

A dog-friendly cottage in a tranquil village, formerly the bakery, now restored to perfection with oodles of space and much comfort

A grand yet very homely place with tasty home cooking and 200 acres to explore. Play golf, sail, cycle – wonderfully informal

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

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Three restful B&B apartments, unique and stylish with communal spaces, wellbeing and healing, delicious home-cooked food

Built in 1518 to gaze across the Loire to Amboise and decorated with discreet elegance and respect for its history. Guests love it

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

This fine old Dordogne house is run by well-travelled owners, has superb views and is a luscious mix of old charm and contemporary design

A romantic creekside cottage down a web of narrow lanes in a tumbling green valley – mess about on the water to your heart’s content

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

Two family and dog friendly retreats for lovers of the countryside, birdwatchers and those wishing to escape the crowds

Escape to your own barn. Brimming with beams and natural colours - surrounded by peaceful lavender-filled gardens and corn fields

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

A light, bright Georgian townhouse in a residential street directly opposite the lovely Lido and restaurant, near Clifton Village

Quaint barns dotted among truffle oaks and rosemary, each one constructed the old-fashioned way and close to the Dordogne and Vézère