Description La Figue: Sainte-Croix

This romantic farmhouse is the French getaway of your dreams, located in the staggeringly beautiful Dordogne valley. Surrounded by lavender and rosemary-filled gardens, and the undulating countryside beyond, you can sink into a state of deep relaxation from the moment you arrive.

The 16th-century home was renovated in 2016 by interior designer Joris van Grinsven, who respected the charming original features while modernising it for 20th-century travellers. Expect thick stone walls, terracotta floors and wood-beamed ceilings alongside a high-spec kitchen, luxurious seating and a flat-screen TV. Sounds like the best of both worlds to us.

From the windows in the plush upstairs bedrooms, keep an eye out for deer, birds of prey and wild boars roaming the landscape. You'll likely want to spend most of your time in the peaceful outdoor space, which has a private heated pool, pétanque court and plentiful loungers where you can sit and sip cocktails with the sun overhead.

Home truths:
*There is private parking for up to four cars here
*There are two other homes on the grounds of this property which share the games room, however, the swimming pool and garden are private
*The swimming pool contains saltwater which is gentler on the skin than chlorine
*For long stays, bedding and towels are changed weekly
*Your host is happy to provide babysitting and restaurant recommendations