Crackling fires in winter, croquet in the summer. Life ticks by peacefully - rooms are engagingly old-fashioned, the garden is much-loved

Wild and peaceful small hotel bordering National Park of Guadarrama. Listen to birdsong, hike in the sierra, spend the day in Segovia

Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

A pretty cottage in the grounds of an 18th-century house in the heart of southern Burgundy, with stunning gardens and a shared pool

A very tranquil spot with views of rolling countryside, the East Mendip Way on the doorstep and good pubs within walking distance

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

A 1930s riverside cabin circled by lush gardens; cosy inside with underfloor heating, glowing wood-burner and gorgeous decor

Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views

Encircled by wild dales and rugged fells, this spoiling cottage cocoons you in countryside peace with the added fun of a sauna in the garden

A most enchanting and welcoming Provençal mas sitting in acres of private parkland with woods, meadows and a small lake for magical stays

A former tobacco barn and an annexe with outdoor kitchen and courtyard, near good places to eat for relaxed days at the beach

A traditional stone bergerie high on a hill and surrounded by woods with east-facing views over the valley for stunning sunrises

Two elegant village houses for big happy gatherings of friends and family with a yoga studio, spacious courtyard and glistening pool

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods and meadows to wander and stunning views of The Black Mountains

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

Come for stunning views down to the bay of La Herradura and this traditional, family-focused 1990s house on three floors

A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

Friendly owners settle you in to this cool, creatively styled barn. Perfect for groups & families with big pool & garden