A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

A fabulous Belle Epoque château with much wow factor set in vast grounds with lawns and lakes, circled by a dense forest

A sylvan hideaway tucked into the hills of the Southern Alps, full of Provençal charm inside and out – Saint-Cézaire and the coast are close

Luxurious living combines with bleating sheep and bells from the church next door - 4 fabulous retreats on the Cotentin Peninsula

Atmospheric English pub with rooms by the green with its duck ponds in a pretty village, with walking and cycling routes to join

A beautiful 18th-century manor house on a productive wine estate with an enticing garden, spa and pool by a nature reserve. Views soar

A new-build in local stone with vast windows gazing out at the meeting place of three beautiful lochs, surrounded by 12 acres of croft land

B&B rooms, some with kitchenettes, in a lush garden setting with a river running behind. The pretty village is on your doorstep

Three immaculate rooms in a 17th-century building; step out onto winding streets lined with trattorias, boutiques, fountains and monuments

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

Old meets new in Benoit’s charming villa with courtyard pool, breakfasts to linger over and all the fun of La Baule on the doorstep

Colourful coastal apartments and studios where you can be nicely independent, and enjoy a communal café and health club with Art Deco pool

A soothing, deeply romantic bolthole with simple interiors and its own little private garden, next to a winery and surrounded by vineyards

Play boules in the garden, swim in the natural pool and enjoy Monica’s wonderful cooking served with local wines at this village farmhouse

The oldest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

Two cosy cottages on a former winemaking estate with private terraces, a shared pool, stunning views and glorious walks from the door