Eat in the sheltered, quirky, outdoor dining area, enjoy Madame's colourful garden in its village setting - ideal for those on a budget

Immaculate apartments with private patios and well-equipped kitchens share oleander-bright gardens and a chlorine-free pool

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

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

A stylish, canal-side inn – you get Sunday lunch, tow paths that lead into Edinburgh, then a pretty garden and cute rooms

Come to restore your soul, be immersed in nature, wander paths in the lovely grounds and make memories with family or friends

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

Kate makes you feel at home the moment you enter her great big beloved house - full of books, guitars and a piano, antiques and huge spaces

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

An open-plan kitchen, sunny terrace and fruitful gardens shine at this private hillside villa. From here, it's easy to ski, swim or sunbathe

Foodies and sociable souls will enjoy this lively B&B in a pretty honey-coloured stone cottage with a garden and a very friendly owner

Steam in the hot tub, gaze over crashing waves or later stars. Inside is swish, kids play in their games room, dinner is in view of the sea

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

Charming 15th-century farmhouse near Montrésor and Loches with immense lawns, orchards and a fabulous pool

'Pinch me' views over Lake Como, a stony beach below, Varenna on your doorstep... these chic apartments are in an idyllic spot

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

A beautifully restored cottage and extra wing for 3 - 4 on Bodmin Moor for families, outdoor types and lovers of real countryside – dogs can come too