Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

Close to Saint-Jean-d'Angély, an elegant and spacious manor house with unfussy, comfortable interiors, bucolic views, big garden and pool

Stay just two kilometres from Siena's medieval gates with views over vineyards, lovely interiors, good food and pleasant gardens

Go with the slow - homemade delights, no plastic anything, few mod cons - just relaxed humorous hosts and a beautiful place

You are treated like nobility in this gorgeous Manoir, enveloped by the towering cliffs and Aurélia and Julien's generous hospitality

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

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

Gather family or friends and take both villa and cottage. The terraces and gardens have long views, the pool is roomy and the peace palpable

A delightful holiday home for a big family or group of close friends. Children and dogs can charge about safely, you can unwind completely

A beautifully restored cottage and extra wing for 3 - 4 on Bodmin Moor for families, outdoor types and lovers of real countryside – dogs can come too

Dark skies and extensive views from this romantic hideaway cottage. Walk down to the loch, snuggle up by the wood-burner… a cosy retreat

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

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place

This warm and friendly little hotel is on a mission - to give you really good food, excellent wine and a very comfortable night's sleep

Lovely big room in its own wing of a Victorian farmhouse. A peaceful spot with views across fields and an elegant drawing room

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

Grand stone house set in tranquil parkland with a pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included