Hiring Villas in France is one of the most relaxing ways to spend a holiday

Villas in France come in all shapes and sizes but what they all have in common, if you take the time to find the best ones, is the absolute serenity of their surroundings. Villas in France are always popular with British holiday makers considering how close France is for them. Brittany is probably the most convenient location and you can get fantastic deals on four person villas there.

The Jardin Botanica takes its name from the beautiful foliage which is kept nearby and it has a marvellous sun deck where you can admire the view.

Another option is the La Torche villa which is near one of the best surfing beaches in France and very reasonably priced. Both villas are only an hour and a half away from Brest airport.

The French island of Corsica is known for its spectacular flora and fauna and anybody would be charmed by the thought of staying in a shepherd's cottage. There is I Fiore di Vazze which is an hour away from Figari airport. A Muredda also sleeps four people and is slightly more impressive. Both have plunge pools.

Provence is widely considered to be the most dazzling region of France and Les Bruyères encapsulates what is so appealing about it with its 18th century farmhouse. If you want a story to tell your friends when you get back stay in Lou Roucas. It was occupied by the painter Chagall during wartime and stands impressively on a cliff. You can drive from Marseilles airport in only an hour and six people can stay in this spacious villa.

Another endlessly appealing region of France is the Dordogne. Imagine waking up to the sounds of a river running at the bottom of the garden and you can probably picture how beautiful the Au Bord de la Rivière villa is. It might be one to avoid if you have small children though. From Bergerac airport it is less than an hour's drive to Au Bord de la Rivière and Les Bernards is an hour's drive. The latter cottage is big enough to sleep four and they can enjoy a newly refurbished residence which has a plunge pool and a brand new kitchen.

Large groups should try the Maison Loupiac in Lot Valley. This villa is a wonderful combination of old and new with a rustic 19th century exterior that encases a glamorous modern interior.