Six of the best village homes
Provence: €449,000

This pretty 18th-century, three-bedroom house in the lovely Luberon boasts lots of hidden gems, including a charming interior courtyard and garden with swimming pool, both of which are perfect spots to enjoy the Mediterranean climate and soak up the plentiful sunshine. Renovated in 2004 and set on a plot of 645m2, there is parking for several cars, two sheds, a large garden and a terrace. The old market town of Apt, with its winding streets and nearby lavender fields, is conveniently located just a short distance away and has good amenities.
www.my-french-house.com
Languedoc-Roussillon: €189,000

Built in 1606 and now completely renovated, this
four-bedroom, two-bathroom house is in the historic village of St Laurent de Cerdans in Pyrénées-Orientales, where you’ll find good amenities and numerous opportunities to experience the local culture. Split over four floors, the property enjoys stunning mountain views from the south-facing terrace, and the exposed stonework on the façade adds to its character.
www.medandmountain.com
Limousin: €234,000

Located in Haute-Vienne, this elegant 19th-century, four-bedroom maison de maître, with high ceilings and polished wooden floors, has a large fenced garden and an adjoining barn. Set in 2,276m2 of land with its own private well and parking area for cars, the house enjoys a private, peaceful setting but is only walking distance from local amenities.
www.limousinpropertyagents.com
Dordogne: €196,000

Complete with bread oven and barn, this 17th-century, partly restored four-bedroom house in the village of St Pardoux La Rivière has plenty of character. Set in 1,460m2 of land, the property includes a garden, garage and outbuildings. If you think you might need even more space, the attic is suitable for conversion, and there is also a cellar for storage.
www.immobilier-dordogne.com
Brittany: €273,000

Situated in a peaceful street in a picturesque fishing village, just 100 metres from the seafront, this charming two-bedroom stone house has been recently renovated to offer bright and spacious living accommodation, while retaining traditional features such as wooden beams. It is within easy reach of both Dinard and St Malo.
www.latitudes.co.uk
Charente-Maritime: €318,000

Set in 400m2 of land in a small village near the Charente-Maritime coast, this property comprises not one but two houses, both of which have gardens and are completely separate. The main house has two bedrooms, exposed beams and views over the Gironde estuary. The second property also has two bedrooms, with a third in a converted outbuilding, and all with en-suites. The small town of Jonzac, with its hot springs and thermal baths, is only 30 minutes away, and offers numerous restaurants and sporting activities. Angoulême airport, which has low-cost flights to and from the UK, can be reached in just 50 minutes.
www.sextantproperties.com