"The Camargue is a mesmerising wilderness of floodland, salt flats, wildflowers and lagoons, edged with pristine sandy beaches, and home to white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos. On the eastern flank, this 1602 stone farmhouse is surrounded by its owners' 550-hectare estate, which is still actively farmed today. Roam free and lose yourself in simple beauty and magnificent silence. The farmhouse effortlessly combines Provencial elegance with crisp, English minimalism, and is filled with splashes of modern art and French antiques. There are flagged floors, saddles on the walls, exposed stone fireplaces and wooden-beamed ceilings. Bedrooms have uncluttered richness: excellent beds, smart linen, polished wooden furniture, pillows piled high. Start your day with breakfast on the vine-clad terrace, then explore the landscape on horseback, before lazing by the pool for some serious sun worshipping and feasting on a delectable 4-course dinner with all-local ingredients. Your soul will thank you. Highs The peace and beauty are addictiveElegant interiors without the slightest hint of clutterAll ingredients are sourced from within a 50-km radius of the property, and dishes are delectably creative You couldn’t get more of an authentic Camargue experience: there are horses to ride, and the family are famous for their bulls and their riceThe birdwatching is excellent, and wild sandy beaches are only a short drive away Lows The Camargue is pretty flat, but if you like watery wilderness, you’ll love itYou need a car to make the most of the areaNote that the restaurant is closed Sunday evenings, and in spring and autumn also on Mondays and lunchtimes Tue-Fri; it's popular with outsiders so best to book ahead" - Tom Bell