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

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

Mont Blanc looms large over this alpine chalet in quiet Les Tines, a stone’s throw from Chamonix and miles of mountain trails

Historic 19th-century maison de maître, perfect for a gathering of friends, within walking distance of the old town’s charms

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

A stunning renovation for this fishing station Ice House on the shore of Gruinard Bay, with magical views, wildlife and Scot-Scandi interiors

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

Wide views over the trees to the glittering loch and the hills beyond will mesmerise; interiors are calm, uncluttered and generous

A handsome château filled with intrigue and interest on the edge of a Bastide town in Landes. Your charming host looks after you with aplomb

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

A well-equipped cottage with a big beautiful garden and murmuring brook. Come for peace, wildlife, a welcome cocktail, and grand walking

A beautiful old farmhouse, carefully renovated with great authenticity and charm, surrounded by other farm buildings and a walled garden

A former tobacco barn and an annexe with outdoor kitchen and courtyard, near good places to eat for relaxed days at the beach

A friendly, generous, big old house with not an ounce of pretension. Big families will adore gathering here to have fun and unwind

An exquisite Provençal home for a large party, hidden behind grand gates in a small village surrounded by the pine-scented Alpilles

A lovely bolthole in remote North Yorkshire – follow stunning hill walks with a soak in the roll top bath, and a glass of bubbly

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near