Sustainably built Suffolk retreat with plenty of space for friends and family to properly unwind (a steam room seals the deal)

History, tranquillity and genuine warmth in a beautifully restored medieval château, deep in the heart of the countryside

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

Surrounded by wildlife and water, this ultra-modern house has huge windows, white walls and designer furnishings. Blissfully remote

A large cob and stone Devon farmhouse in a sheltered dip near to Rosemoor and the coast, with valley views over the garden and pond

A wonderfully simple and modern studio with stunning sea views in an almost Jurassic landscape, dotted with the owner's sculptures

Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

Friendly hosts, good food and clever design in this house looking over Kilmartin Glen. Slow down, watch the sunrise and marvel at the peace

Beautiful, and with a delightfully rambling garden, this early 16th-century manor has bags of room for happy days with family or friends

Stylish B&B rooms in a peaceful little château, amongst rolling hills, woods and farmland - bikes and boules to borrow, lovely pool to share

Ease yourself into a rather more gracious lifestyle from this sweet retreat on a historic estate with gorgeous walled gardens

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A roomy, stylish barn conversion in Devon's rolling hills with wonderful walks from the door and panoramic views of the Exe valley

A charming renovated stone gîte only 15km from Bergerac with a large outdoor pool, pretty gardens and walks and cycle rides from the door

Manicured exteriors surround this 18th-century hamlet, a cluster of restored buildings with nine apartments, restaurant, pool and small spa

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

A serene retreat, deep in forested hills with lovely gardens, the river rushing through and a very comfortable, calming and spacious house