A summer hideaway by a lively Algarvian village with a pretty garden. Sundowners, a pool, massages, a BBQ and traditional bedrooms

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

Get away from it all in 'old' France, where melons taste like melons & hikes start from the door. This rural bolthole is a serious treat

Live like a local. Art lovers, book lovers and walkers will be happy here above an art gallery in the centre of town

Two lovely old cottages, part of the 1700 stable block on the St Giles estate, with 5,000 acres to roam, for walkers and peace seekers

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

Enjoy views over the lake, eat good food in the restaurant, sleep in antique-filled bedrooms, have a proper rest

An attractive, sympathetic barn conversion, full of light, pleasingly uncluttered and hidden down a lane in stunningly beautiful countryside

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

A townhouse with a walled garden by the church in a peaceful village where friendly Scottish owners feed and look after you well

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

Come for dreamy river views, a lovely garden and this bolthole for two, beautifully renovated inside and out and with a private hot tub

An 1820s beach house just 50 metres from the pretty sands and a first-floor deck for al fresco meals with stunning views over the water

Blissful views to vineyards and mountains from this faithful reproduction of a 16th-century manor. Eat well, hike, bike, sauna and swim

Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

Simple but stylishly furnished village house, terrific hill-top views, low-impact design, organic cooking and a hot tub; utterly peaceful