Wooded, lakeside retreat for 1 or 2 – big windows, huge terrace, wood-burner, wide screen. The Jurassic coast a cross-country walk away

Perfect luxury in deepest Normandy: gorgeous gardens, a heavenly pool, and interiors worthy of an art gallery

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

A soothing, deeply romantic bolthole with simple interiors and its own little private garden, next to a winery and surrounded by vineyards

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

Comfortable redbrick cottage with views on the Heydon Hall estate. It’s delightfully rural, yet close to Reepham for pubs and shops

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

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

In a chocolate-box village just an hour on the train, and a short hop in a taxi, from London is this foodie inn with pretty bedrooms

Your very own château in the Dordogne for big family get-togethers and special celebrations

A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

Thoughtful red brick barn conversion on a working farm. Peaceful, practical and within easy reach of outdoor activities

One of England's oldest coaching inns, full of history and wonky floors, on a Surrey market town's high street

Two elegant village houses for big happy gatherings of friends and family with a yoga studio, spacious courtyard and glistening pool

In a profoundly peaceful spot between arty St Ives and stunning Marazion, a hideaway for two surrounded by gardens and parkland

There's a lovely relaxed feel to this rather grand house, garden, ponds and orangery. Ashley and Amanda are easy-going hosts

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

A family-run, environmentally friendly bistro with rooms near Grasmere: climb to the nearest viewing spot. Dogs welcome too