Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

One of the loveliest houses in a very lovely village. Pretty rooms have parquet floors and white walls, the food is a delight

A 200-year-old cortijo in a totally tranquil spot with gated pool, two acres of grounds, an orchard and olive terraces with mountain views

Old wooden sleigh beds, check-clothed tables, log fires, a courtyard of centuries-old trees, a claw foot bath. Stacks of character

Immaculate Cotswold beauty with great food, welcoming staff, handsome rooms and a sun-trap terrace, plus countryside walks from the door

What a surprise to find a masseria in the heart of a Puglian village. Welcome to Anna’s elegant agriturismo

Full of country-hideaway chic, this special holiday home is in one of the loveliest parts of the Var, surrounded by 10 private acres

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

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

A fuss-free, informal place to stay with family - your own entrance straight from the garden and tasty breakfasts set up in a summer house

Come to this cosy barn down a winding lane for a back-to-nature escape: hike the Black Mountains, splash in the stream, gaze at the views

A lovely old traditional mas, built around a courtyard with lots of outdoor space and rambling gardens for happy gatherings, and sunny days

Taste the wine, plunge into the granite pool, play billiards in the library, linger outdoors as swallows swoop – eat delicious local dishes

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

A wonderful surprise inside this 1590 house sitting in a beautiful walled garden full of fruit trees, just off the High Street

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

A stunning château with huge rooms, pretty balconies with views, peaceful garden. Super owners, excellent dinners - and child-friendly too