France

Come for the great outdoors. Return to your base - one of two independent cottages secluded in softly rolling Breton countryside

Come for a rest in this indulgent B&B with pool, gardens, views, breakfasts on your own terrace and bright, modern-looking bedrooms

Come for a romantic cottage, set within the beautiful grounds of the Domaine yet very private, with pretty mown paths for strolls

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

17th-century stone house in a peaceful village surrounded by forest & wildlife. Morning pastries & evening drinks at the bar a stroll away

An 18th-century limestone barn, now a quiet hideaway for a group of friends or family in a very rural spot surrounded by fields and woods

A converted farmhouse set in a large mature garden, well located for exploring the delights of the Lot et Garonne south of the Dordogne

Cosy timber-framed cottages from which you can explore Alsace’s vine-striped countryside and traditional villages

Up in the Cévennes, this big, beautiful family house has superb views, a fine kitchen, lots of space and masses to do and see

Come to restore your soul, be immersed in nature, wander paths in the lovely grounds and make memories with family or friends

An exquisite Provençal home for a large party, hidden behind grand gates in a small village surrounded by the pine-scented Alpilles

A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces, quite private and with a shared pool and games room just a short hop from pretty Auvillar

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

A peaceful, stylish getaway for two within the charming owners' home with shared pool, fabulous views – and all of Provence to (re)visit

A happy guest told us, ‘A marvellous way to see a beautiful château and this is probably the best that we have stayed in’

Charming Madame loves to share her old winemaker’s house. Take a picnic down to the stream, stroll to the village, let the peace embrace you

Superbly renovated rooms in a famous town-centre inn at the heart of the Loire châteaux region, excellent food

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