Le Manoir de Bize-Minervois

From the outside, this 18th-century mansion is a classic maison de maître vigneron – square, solid and symmetrical – but step inside and the owners’ quirky Dutch sensibility is writ large.

Brightening the traditional with contemporary touches, the cosy ground floor sitting room has an old-school vibe with wood panelling, deep armchairs and piles of books, while upstairs, a family-friendly room is light-filled and laid-back. There are huge photographs on the wall and squishy sofas to sprawl on.

The house sleeps up to 15 in seven bedrooms and there are four bathrooms to share. It’s a convivial place. The big kitchen bristles with mod cons, with plenty of space for rustling up meals for many. There’s a barbecue and a pétanque court in the front garden and behind the house, a play area for the kids and a heated saltwater pool with views stretching to distant hills.