Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

Rural Andalusian retreat with bags of boho style promises wide-open skies, mountain vistas and fabulous meals prepared by your host

In peaceful walled gardens, this former convent is a quiet retreat just a stone’s throw from the Riviera coast and the best of Tuscany

A beautiful little house in a corner of the garden: walk for miles or just to the local pub, barbecue on the deck with its rural views

At the gates of a country estate, two quirky hexagonal lodge houses with private outdoor seating and acres of grounds for walks and picnics

A dramatic house with stylish interiors – designed to bring the outdoors in so you feel wrapped in nature. Great for families or friends

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

An inviting B&B on a terraced Fulham street: greats hosts, a big, tranquil suite and continental breakfast in the courtyard on sunny days

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

An elegant hotel that feels like a well-kept secret, with charming staff, understated rooms and great restaurants a short walk away

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

Climb the candle-lit marble staircase to dream between lavender-scented sheets in splendid rooms, some with balcony or terrace

Contemporary studio in a classic Cotswold village. Peaceful bolthole for creatives and walkers - with shops, cafés and pubs a stroll away

Treat yourselves to a stay in the gloriously comfortable Astor Wing with private terrace and views to Hever Castle and the Tudor Garden

A perfectly romantic and gorgeously restored bothy in a garden on a hillside by the sea, with grand views over the mountains of Skye