France

A lovely space in a quiet riverside hamlet. Find pretty interiors with plenty of art, and lots of leafy countryside. Swim in the pool or river

A delightful old farmhouse with a central courtyard, dining terrace and infinity pool for dreamy holidays with family or friends

A fuss-free, informal place to stay with family - your own entrance straight from the garden and tasty breakfasts set up in a summer house

Refined B&B in a pretty forest setting just north of the French Basque country, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and delicious food

A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

In history-rich Arras, close to the WW1 memorials, a remarkably authentic 1750's mansion with statues and an elegant knot garden

A big old house with a lovely pool, surrounded by ancient olives just 3kms from the sea and deep in the heart of Bandol wine country

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Dine in the orangery on excellent cuisine, or take breakfast in bed with the shutters thrown wide. Simply delightful

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

A spacious family haven in the hills of the Var, with harmonious gardens, a child-safe pool, a summer kitchen, and a mesmerising view

A serene B&B in the heart of the Côte d'Or Burgundy wine region; come for vineyard tours, cycling, sightseeing and gourmet extravaganzas

A lovely gîte with cool lines and its own shady terrace plus pool, gardens, fountain and a relaxed family-friendly feel

A unique 1900 house and garden on the edge of Lyon, steeped in history and authenticity – a beautiful home with museum-quality objects

A peaceful setting among plane trees and oleander for this traditional mas with separate apartments and a gypsy caravan, pool and gardens

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

A suburban eco retreat with plenty of carefully balanced energy savings, including an untamed garden and a natural pond for wild swimming

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious