A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

Superb views, scenic walks and a huge range of activities all within easy reach of this beautifully restored property

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

Four pretty cottages with private terraces, a shared garden and muted interiors inspired by Norfolk’s landscapes. A short drive to the coast

A large, attractive 18th-century house with sweeping lawns, outdoor seating areas and two free-standing baths by an ivy-clad wall

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

A treat to stay in one half of this unique Grade I listed arch sitting at the estate entrance, just a short walk from the Beckford Arms

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

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

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

A deliciously cool loft hideaway set among tall sycamores in the grounds of the main house, with a New York Tribeca feel and much comfort

A cosy, courteous, family-run hotel with ‘chocolatines’ and cherry jams at breakfast, Basque dishes at dinner, and gorgeous rolling views

5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

Charming trulli apartments promise rustic comfort and panoramic views (horses too). Perfectly placed for exploring the area

Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

After a day touring châteaux, return to this pretty, very comfortable cottage with private terrace and a garden filled with birdsong

A flawlessly restored palazzo in the oldest part of town opposite an ancient monastery, with peaceful courtyard and a terrace with views