A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

An island of oyster farms, salt pans and white beaches, woolly donkeys, countless push-bikes and the odd celeb – we love the Ile de Ré!

A little gem tucked on a rural Northumbrian estate with other cottages. The rugged coast and lovely Alnwick make for super day trips

An elegant solution to a hotel - no rooms, but 13 charming villas in the heart of the maquis, nearly all with a private pool

Sweep along the gravel drive through lawns and specimen trees to this elegant manor house with 17th-century roots

Live in the lap of luxury in a 600-year-old regenerated farmhouse, enjoy fine fittings, great lighting, games, castle view and infinity pool

A laidback retreat, well placed for visiting some of the most popular Tuscan gems, with a sparkling pool, traditional meals & charming hosts

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

A remote, rustic place for a digital detox - wildly romantic and perfect in summer with the doors open. Children can play in safety

Relaxed, friendly bistro in the heart of Frome with boutique bedrooms above. Open all day - continental breakfasts and a classic French menu

An 18th-century converted barn with lofty beamed ceilings, exposed stonework, handmade oak windows and much art – pretty garden too

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

Easy-going, stylish rooms, a lovely, relaxing garden with natural pool - 1hr north of Lisbon and close to some of the world’s best beaches

A traditional coaching inn dating from the 18th century with good food served in private and public dining rooms on the Wellington Estate

Come to be looked after with delicious food and spoiling bedrooms in this mini stately home set in gorgeous parkland near Ludlow

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon