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

A fairytale château with ancient roots, now beautifully renovated with lovely bedrooms, terrace, garden and ponds for gracious living

A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

A wall of glass frames the sea view - take drinks on the waterfront lawn in summer, or by the crackling fire in winter

A welcoming retreat with lofty rooms, a sunny garden and the perfect plunge pool. Come for slow days and wine country adventures

20 minutes’ walk from Gordes and a hop from Aix, find grownup peace and minimalism for lovers of modern style and timeless Provence

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

For lovers of tranquillity and simple pleasures with a private pool, tennis court, stunning views and forty acres to explore

Orchards and ducks, open fires, deep comfort in glorious Wiltshire countryside. Courtyard bedrooms and lovely big kitchen too

High ceilings and exposed stone walls give a light, bright and rustic feel to this restored barn with fabulous views over a lush valley