France

A big, comfortable house with heated outdoor pool in 17 acres of gardens. Mountains, river swimming, hiking nearby; coast within the hour

A truly impressive modern chalet in Morzine’s centre, but not overlooked – sleek larch-beamed luxury and enthusiastic, savvy hosts

A traditional Gascon stone chateau with a square tower at each end, a roomy salon, summer kitchen, gorgeous terrace and gardens

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

A beautiful cream stone building in the grounds of a grand château, with a large and view-filled outdoor terrace for peaceful dawdling

Come for strawberries in summer, walnuts in winter, and a wonderful welcome all year round. Thierry and Charlotte are living their dream

A classic Provençal villa in shades of sand and eau de nil, set between the coast and Var mountains with wooded gardens and plenty of space

Saint Emilion and Castillon both a hop away from a warm, wonderful barn with owners to match. Stylish, cosy and deep in organic vines

Provençal charm floats through the ground floor of this 18th-century home in a vineyard near Lorgues. Walk, cycle, swim in the pool, enjoy the peace

An enchanting spot above pretty old Sète, the fisherman’s summer retreat has garden corners for all, cool white rooms, loads of personality

Swooping vistas of unspoilt France and wonderful owners - luxury to boot, fresh eggs, organic veg and a super pool. Perfect for families

Discover coastal walks at Douarnenez and history in Quimper - or hop in the car to the plage at Pentrez and see the land-yachts scoot by!

A three storey house and garden with sea glimpses in the 'vieux village' named for the Mimosa trees which flower in profusion in winter

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

Great for gatherings of family and friends: fine views, a good big kitchen, games room and pool; nearby caves and castles to explore

A spacious, luxurious family retreat, remote but close to Audierne. Watch surfers shoot the waves as seagulls wheel above

A confident style for this mid-19th-century house, with a Mediterranean garden, elegant terrace and pool, a stroll from the historic centre

A gorgeous old gardener's house in grand Belle Epoque style, filled with every comfort and sitting in the grounds of a magnificent château