A spacious, luxurious family retreat, remote but close to Audierne. Watch surfers shoot the waves as seagulls wheel above

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

Explore ‘Green Provence’ on e-bikes, enjoy the pool and calm of a Mediterranean garden surrounded by vineyards. Return to a delicious dinner

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

One of the loveliest houses in a very lovely village. Pretty rooms have parquet floors and white walls, the food is a delight

Spend restful days in a verdant garden, slip into the cooling pool, sip wine on your private balcony, stroll into arty Benissa

1820s cottage with long views, a lovely garden and generous extras. Alnwick is close and miles of white sandy beaches with dunes

A grand place for up to 12 adventurous souls and the young at heart: swim, bob in a boat, hike and cycle or simply revel in the greenery and peace

Traditional house in a rural part of the Algarve with a spectacular garden, a pool and a tennis court, and restaurants a short stroll

A perfectly renovated farmhouse in the grounds of a delightful château deep in the Normandy countryside, with a lovely walled garden

A wonderful country house, a unique wine story, very luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, infinity pool and restaurant

Mesmerising sea views from this big comfortable hillside house near Deià with a big pool, verdant gardens and sun-trapping terraces

A sweet bolthole for two and a babe-in-arms or pooch in friendly, foodie Ramsbottom with walks straight into woods and moors

You're overlooking the main square in medieval Umbertide from this cosy, second-floor apartment, so you'll feel very much like a local

Lovingly renovated farmhouse amid vines and sunflowers, deep in the Charente countryside - small pool in garden, beaches 45 minutes away.

An elegant hotel that feels like a well-kept secret, with charming staff, understated rooms and great restaurants a short walk away

Imperious old coaching inn lost in deep country with a river to fish, five-mile views, delicious rooms and some very tasty food