A lovely old stone house, set in a walled garden and overlooking the swimming pool on an ancient estate with gardens open to the public

An 18th-century coaching inn wrapped in countryside now a relaxed pub with rooms serving excellent food and drink with 16 inviting bedrooms

A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

A gloriously colourful converted byre with your own little courtyard, a garden with views and use of a Finnish sauna and cold plunge

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

Gloriously green rural self-catering apartments with pool and lovely, friendly owners

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

Come for a spot of pampering and seriously good food at this smart townhouse B&B with spa, garden and pool in the heart of Abbeville

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

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Enjoy views over the lake, eat good food in the restaurant, sleep in antique-filled bedrooms, have a proper rest

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

Treat yourselves to some downtime at this lush, semi-tropical hideaway with big pool, delicious breakfasts and charmingly rustic bedrooms

Countryside and seaside all in one go – what could be more inspiring? Lovely Louisa lives down the road, on hand if you need her

A row of old brick stables now craftily converted into a light-filled and very peaceful place to stay with a garden room and gorgeous views

Two riverside properties with incredible views, for walkers, sailors, dogs… and self-caterers who aim to be spoiled rotten

The view is pure Canaletto, the vibe is modern and laid back. Just minutes from all Venice’s best bits, but with far fewer tourists