A very pretty old converted cart shed at the end of a track on an organic farm, surrounded by wildlife, birds and animals in the fields

Stylish bedrooms, scrumptious fish menu. Fill your boots (and pack your wellies) at this village gem in Derbyshire's lovely crown

A thoughtful conversion of an old farm barn with beautifully-beamed interiors - a flawless, rural escape for romantics and dreamers

The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

Historic village inn with wonderful cooking and a Provençal-style courtyard garden; drive to the Jurassic Coast in half an hour

Elegant historic house set in acres of grounds transports you to a bygone belle époque (with all mod cons)

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Dinner fresh from the garden with your creative hosts is an absolute delight. Roam unspoilt countryside, visit châteaux and vineyards galore

Two lovely old cottages, part of the 1700 stable block on the St Giles estate, with 5,000 acres to roam, for walkers and peace seekers

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

A comfy cottage for two in the quiet, leafy outskirts of Aix with easy access to the city and a kind, attentive owner nearby

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

A deliciously cool loft hideaway set among tall sycamores in the grounds of the main house, with a New York Tribeca feel and much comfort

A thoughtfully renovated cottage in a small hamlet with garden, courtyard and pool. The peace is palpable but you're near to bustling Tusson

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

Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store