A cosy bolt hole near medieval Cartmel with woods, meadows and wildlife – great for walkers in this quiet part of the South Lakes

The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store

Peaceful converted barn on a remote working farm – pet the donkeys, wild swim and row on the lake, warm up around the wood-burner

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

Large, unpretentious and very comfortable family house in splendid isolation with swimming pool, tennis court and well-tended gardens

No-nonsense farm conversions with open, airy rooms and good big showers sharing a pool, a playground and fabulous views. Great walks, too

In glorious rural Umbria, a spacious old farmhouse with magnificent views of mountains and Lago Trasimeno, rustic décor and a lovely pool

A hop from the Côte d'Azur is this elegant home: bring friends, explore the garden, curl up on the sofa, dip in the heated pool

Retreat to a classically styled, elegant apartment for four - private and peaceful - in a characterful, super-central area of Rome

Heart-soaring Pyrenean views, animals roaming, natural materials in simple rural rooms, organic food: it’s a superbly welcoming eco-lodge

Bedrooms have seersucker linen, doors open to the countryside and Beaune is a hop away. David and Niels ensure a memorable stay

A delightful coastal cottage with far-reaching ocean views from almost every room, two gardens and a short hop to beach and Coast Path

Live like a local. Art lovers, book lovers and walkers will be happy here above an art gallery in the centre of town

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

'Pinch me' views over Lake Como, a stony beach below, Varenna on your doorstep... these chic apartments are in an idyllic spot

Spread out in much style with friends or family in a beautifully renovated Victorian farmhouse at the foot of the Howgill fells

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