A peaceful spot for this beautifully restored old barn surrounded by lovely gardens and a sparkling pool on the banks of the Dordogne river

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

Explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, or simply sunbathe next to the pool... Leafy gardens, comfortable rooms and excellent dinners

A gorgeous apartment in the heart of a Jacobean-style manor house with sweeping views over woodlands and the wonderful gardens

An 1820s farmhouse at the end of a quiet road in the North York Moors National Park, overlooking a forest and surrounded by fields

The river's gentle flow sets the tone for a relaxing stay in this peaceful Loire estate: quiet rooms, sweet village, dinner with Madame

A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

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

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Experience the pleasures of traditional Tuscan living with fabulous food and fine wines from the family vineyard

Discover warmth, tranquillity and wonderful breakfasts behind the handsome old door of this luxurious small hotel in Lucca

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

Hospitable Jorge and Clotilde love nothing more than sharing their colourful, chaotic old house with guests. The farm produce is fabulous

A lovely 19th-century stone mas with south-facing terrace, garden and pool for relaxed family holidays, just off the D99 in a small hamlet

A tranquil cabin for two in rural countryside near arty Totnes: there are walks from the door and all of Devon is yours to explore