If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

A beautiful old building with generous windows, arched doorways and opulent interiors in the glorious countryside by a fairy tale château

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

Enfolded in gentle Dorset hills and surrounded by trees, a perfect wooden hut for 2 near beaches, River Cottage HQ and many beautiful walks

Dinner fresh from the garden with your creative hosts is an absolute delight. Roam unspoilt countryside, visit châteaux and vineyards galore

A gorgeous wooden-clad off-grid cottage deep in the National Park with far-reaching views, unfussy interiors and spoiling extra treatments

Perfect luxury in deepest Normandy: gorgeous gardens, a heavenly pool, and interiors worthy of an art gallery

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

A large handsome 1800s manor, now a peaceful haven for free-range families and creative types on the edge of vibrant Richelieu in the Loire

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

An airy converted barn with beautiful woodwork and countryside views. Reach riverside restaurants and St Malo within a 15-minute drive

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Wisteria, clematis and roses clamber up this pretty stone barn conversion with its own big garden surrounded by mature trees and many birds

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

Rustic charm meets modern comfort in peaceful Devon hideaway set in acres of wild meadows and ancient orchards, with glorious swimming pool