Coastal retreats

A romantic place for lovers, artists, writers and wildlife spotters, surrounded by glorious walking, cycling and close to long sandy beaches

A big old house with a lovely pool, surrounded by ancient olives just 3kms from the sea and deep in the heart of Bandol wine country

Bathe, boat, bicycle all round this atmospheric island, binge on seafood, then home to excellent rooms, heated pool and Jean's eager welcome

An Edwardian villa with stunning views, polished floors, cosy fires and child-friendly garden a short walk from lovely Portmeirion

Quirky lights and vintage 60s pieces add character to an immaculate home bathed in light and serenity – launch pad for stylish temptations

Bustling Fowey harbour sweeps out below this Victorian townhouse. Walk to shops and restaurants, hike the coastal path, return to comfort

Four family-friendly self-catering casitas and an original cortijo in wildlife-rich acres near the sandy Costa de la Luz

Flop in a hammock and be lulled by Mediterranean scents and breezes, sleep in an ancient Trullo – come here for raw beauty not for frills

Sheep's Head Way is reputedly one of the best walks in Ireland. Come back to roaring fires, Rayburns, art and style - terrific restorations

The smallest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

Surrounded by wildlife and water, this ultra-modern house has huge windows, white walls and designer furnishings. Blissfully remote

Breathtaking views, coastal walks, wildflowers and pretty beaches. Return to a garden with a tropical feel, helpful hosts and sunny rooms

A tall and graceful house, immaculate and stylish within. Enjoy the town’s sandy beaches, discover the glamour of Deauville

You’re in Snowdonia National Park: cycle, hike, swim, climb & trampoline to your heart’s content. Come home to comfort, warmth, grand views

Take over this fine Georgian manor in leafy countryside close to the sea near Beaumaris and discover Anglesey’s beauty and its wildlife

A light larch-clad space for lovers, or a retreat for walkers and writers in pretty Orford, once a medieval sea port but now on the river

A superb family hotel with an indoor pool, a beach below, and the independence of 15 apartments and a studio

Light-and-colour filled cottage with gardens and sea views on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, a short stroll from Chesil Beach