Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

A beautiful villa, a cabin, a loft and a wagon on the sunny side of the harbour and a stroll from the beach. Faultless finds!

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Deep in vineyards near Liguria's coast, find attractive apartments, manicured lawns, infinity pool, space to relax and child-free serenity

Pristine and elegant rural farmhouse with sophisticated interiors and lovely owners who go the extra mile to make your stay special

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

High in the Tuscan hills, at the end of an avenue of cypresses, surrounded by parkland and acres of olives... a 13th-century dream

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

Charming 15th-century farmhouse near Montrésor and Loches with immense lawns, orchards and a fabulous pool

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

Find good taste, peacefulness and warm hospitality, steps away from the car-free Via Toledo, in the heart of the city

You'll feel ensconced in the countryside in this cosy cottage with a private garden overlooking the little vineyard and a secluded pool

A rustic haven in Vouvray wine country: bask on sun beds near the elegant pool, cosy up to the wood-burner, relax in your beautiful bedroom

Wonderful views of the Cantabrian Sea, locally sourced food and fine bedrooms at a boutique hotel on the Asturian coast

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

A wonderfully simple and modern studio with stunning sea views in an almost Jurassic landscape, dotted with the owner's sculptures

Victorian almshouse with architectural pedigree, sweeping countryside views and easy access to charming local towns

Friendly Maki and Clive's higgledy-piggledy home is a charming, special place. Rooms are cosy, Clive's cookery courses are fun and delicious