Adorable cottages in pastoral peace with views to Wimborne Minster; cook and eat in modern kitchens. Blue flag beaches are close

In a hamlet in the Loire countryside is a friendly estate with a family-sized gite, a shared saltwater pool and heaps of old-world charm

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

A majestic renovation of a Victorian 'model' farm with underfloor heating, open plan design, light bright lines and not a whiff of IKEA

Light-filled house full of modern art and antique finds with stunning gardens and a pool. The best of Provence is on your doorstep

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Airy, spacious, sunny. This Lot gîte is a delight: linen curtains, oak stair, sunny pool. Sarlat and painted caves are an easy venture away

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

A Georgian townhouse full of character for an epic family and friend get-together. The best of Hay is a stroll away

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

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

Rustic charm and homely hospitality – this 12th-century hideaway in a medieval village is perfect for slow days, wine and wandering

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

This cottage is stylish and serene, beautifully transformed from an old farm building – come for golf, beaches, walks and bird-watching

Anglo-Irish meets Italian and Indian; the owners have peppered this charming home with furniture and artefacts from their broad travels

Explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, or simply sunbathe next to the pool... Leafy gardens, comfortable rooms and excellent dinners

A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top