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

Four lovingly restored gites with amazing views and a huge pool. Have this Domaine all to yourselves - there's space for up to 26

Fairytale castle in a tranquil and secluded countryside setting. Classic French cuisine and grand, traditional interiors

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

A traditional, grand 1850 townhouse sitting in a large, landscaped garden with mature trees, a short walk to the village centre and square

Modest and authentic, a top-floor apartment in an eco-friendly Provençal farmhouse, with dogs and hens. River swims are a stroll away...

A gorgeous 18th-century house and pool sitting serenely on the banks of the river and surrounded by flourishing bird-filled gardens

Family-friendly B&B above the medieval hill village of Bargemon, with soothing minimalist interiors, a large garden and a swimming pool

All you'd hope for, and more! Enormous rooms, marvellous beams, majestic views, and delicious food and wines from their vineyard

Light-filled chalet in a small hamlet just outside Châtel. Feast on superb breakfasts before heading out to explore the Portes du Soleil

A real treat to stay in this elegant 18th-century house with pampering bedrooms, gorgeous home-cooked food and stunning gardens with pool

For wine lovers and foodies discovering the 'Tuscany of Bordeaux'. Elegance, serenity, history, and a delightfully epicurean hostess

Comfortable, understated, spotless and authentic – a modest family hideaway on Brittany’s stunning Crozon Peninsula (think Land’s End...)

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

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

A stylish cottage for two in a cluster of renovated farm buildings: set out for country walks, hire bikes, swim in the river

Live out all your bohemian dreams at this arty villa, with garden and plunge pool, perched above the glittering Riviera.

Leave the car, everything is walkable & buses are practically free. Visit restaurants, vineyards & markets from your lofty village bolthole