Charming house, Perche Sarthois, 2 hours from Paris

A short distance from water skiing, ecotours, and more, this family-friendly cottage lets you experience it all. Jump into your car and make short work of the 16-minute drive to Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park or the 20-minute drive to Belleme Golf (and enjoy the property's convenient onsite parking in the meantime).

After you return to this 1184-sq-ft cottage, unwind in the hot tub or sip a drink in the garden, and don't forget about the outdoor furniture. For a change of scenery, come inside and enjoy the free WiFi, TV, stereo, and DVD player.

As you settle into this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental, you'll find a living room, a dining area, a sofa bed, and a BBQ grill. Bathroom amenities include a hair dryer and toilet paper. The kitchen is equipped with an oven, a stovetop, and a refrigerator, as well as a coffee maker, an electric kettle, and a microwave. And there's access to laundry facilities, so you can even pack a bit lighter.