Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

Come to be cossetted in this 300-year-old Burgundy farmhouse with rose garden, sheltered pool and convivial Dutch owners

A 200-year-old village house surrounded by vineyards. Light-filled interiors, lots of art, a garden and a pool

Dating back to 1892 and once the home of the town's mayor, this fine house sits in the centre of a pretty Andalusian town with much to offer

Laze in the pool, nibble olives from the market, gaze over Provence. Inside, English meets classic French. Fabulous for families

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

Remote three-bedroom cottage in Northumberland National Park, with far-reaching views over hills and valleys and walks in all directions

Restored 18th-century farm building surrounded by countryside, with a good pub a short walk away and Lake Windermere a ten-minute drive

Wonderful views over medieval Gubbio from this rural stone farmhouse with pool, cottages and apartments sitting in lush gardens

5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

For wine lovers and foodies discovering the 'Tuscany of Bordeaux'. Elegance, serenity, history, and a delightfully epicurean hostess

An immaculately restored cottage with a blissful sun room, private terrace, gardens, pool and orchard for a warm and peaceful hideaway

Victorian country house for 8–15 with gardens overlooking the Howgill Fells for happy reunions with family and friends

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

Retreat to a classically styled, elegant apartment for four - private and peaceful - in a characterful, super-central area of Rome

Grand stone house set in tranquil parkland with a pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included