Two duplex apartments filled with art and sculptures inside a beautiful 18th-century orangery, minutes from magnificent Versailles

Come for excellent food, warm interiors and nicely priced rooms in this light old Rectory with a pretty terrace for summer drinks

Characterful house in a sociable village near Frome; wander to the pub, explore Nunney Castle, relax in the garden. Breakfasts are delicious

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

A delightful harled stone and wood house yards from the sea with glorious hills behind, for walkers, dreamers, nature lovers and adventurers

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

Perched on a hillside between mountains and sea is this charming house in a modern Spanish style, engulfed by a beautiful garden with views

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep

A country retreat, this airy suite has a crackling fireplace and warm wooden floors to cheer and hearten after a day roaming the hills...

Lively renovation for this 18th-century cottage built of local stone and with a large garden in Modbury. Totnes and sandy beaches are close

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

A nature-filled estate for smart lodge holidays in rural peace with woods and coast to explore, onsite activities and yummy homemade meals

Rustic charm meets modern comfort in peaceful Devon hideaway set in acres of wild meadows and ancient orchards, with birdsong on the breeze

Pomegranates, persimmon and figs, the waft of rosemary on the air... we love this old 'mas' 25km from Gordes, in sweet sunny Provence

A medieval monastery, stunningly revived, in untouristy, car-free Pisciotta. Sip greco on the terrace; scramble through olives to the sea

A very swish 1610 house, thoroughly refurbished, in the heart of old Chichester with oodles of space and a surprisingly large garden

A niftily restored 1934 traditional Hebridean croft house with a herb garden and stunning sea views across Loch Snizort to Trotternish