France

A shady terrace runs the full length of this old barn, overlooking magnificent trees and fields of sheep. Riberac is a 10-minute drive

Rural French heaven at this lovely farm within four hectares. Natural materials, neutral colours and a lavender-lined pool all to yourselves

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

Couples and families will love this renovated barn in the glorious Périgord near Trémolat. Hike, visit vineyards and châteaux, watch birds

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

Bring family or friends to this beautiful 16th-century stone manor house standing in a tiny hamlet in the heart of the Dordogne

For lovers of tranquillity and the great outdoors – come for simple pleasures not mod cons - loads to explore, a pool, a tennis court

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

Pomegranates, persimmon and figs, the waft of rosemary on the air... we love this old 'mas' 25km from Gordes, in sweet sunny Provence

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

A lovely little bolthole for 2 and a child - close to Sacre-Coeur, the 68 bus to the Louvre and lots of lovely restaurants and cafés

A cosy and homely Breton gîte in a sociable setting - distinctly rural but with masses to do: pool, play areas, and café

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

A sophisticated idyll 10 minutes from a charming town, perfect for sybarites and sociable gatherings, family occasions, cooks, cyclists...

It's quiet among the lavender plants... bees humming, sun shining. Splash in the shared pool, visit lovely villages, taste local wines

A stylish, thoughtful and impressive place for a family holiday, in a dreamy Charentais landscape with the odd sheep to keep you company

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

Stay in a lovely 18th-century townhouse in one of the prettiest villages on the Loire surrounded by unspoilt countryside