A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

This eco-friendly farmhouse in the hills of Fiesole is 10km from Florence. Good company, superb views of Tuscany, and food for the soul!

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

A family-run 1700s thatched Inn in a rural hamlet with super food, a grand team to look after you and picnic benches in a pretty garden

Between Penzance & Helston, close to Praa Sands, is a beautiful bolthole for 6. Good for garden lovers & peace-seekers – dog-friendly too

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

A renovated bright apartment with lots of space, a hop, skip and jump away from the shingle beach of seaside-jolly Deal

Come for super ridgeway walks and explore charming towns and villages from this pretty 18th-century cottage in the Chalke Valley

An authentic, charming and spacious home with garden, pool and lake, deep in the Dordogne valley and decorated with uncluttered elegance

Welcome to an immaculate house on the Isle of Skye. Relax in the sauna, relish the hamper, linger over the barbecue with a fabulous view

A modern take on an Iron Age roundhouse with stunning sea views in Scotland’s wild west, perfect for couples

Live out all your bohemian dreams at this arty villa, with garden and plunge pool, perched above the glittering Riviera.

Escape to a rural idyll on a working olive and citrus farm in the toe of Italy. Attentive hosts, good for kids and great food!

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

Generous apartments in a 300-year-old farmhouse with beautiful grounds and a swimming pool