Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

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

No-nonsense farm conversions with open, airy rooms and good big showers sharing a pool, a playground and fabulous views. Great walks, too

A super Georgian cottage with its own private garden, very comfortable bedrooms and acres of bird-filled grounds to explore

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

Hideaway in the hills complete with private pool and outdoor kitchen. Spend days hiking or on a sun lounger - perfect for families

A smartly renovated village pub with rooms welcoming locals, visitors, families and dogs on a Staffordshire country estate

It's quiet among the lavender plants... bees humming, sun shining. Splash in the shared pool, visit lovely villages, taste local wines

Portraits, paintings and a historic look-out tower, pool, gardens and delicious breakfasts... San Fabiano captures everyone’s heart

Top-notch apartments in the heart of old Jérez for couples and families on the bodega trail. A daily market in town and fab beaches near by

Family-run B&B in an authentic and informal home. Stay for delicious dinners, walk along the river, explore Umbria’s heritage

Remote barn in the middle of Northumberland National Park with views for miles, wonderful walking trails and clear starry skies

Chichester, blessed with a stunning natural setting, is great for a city break - and this Georgian coach house the perfect bolthole for 2

Your friendly hosts offer you stylish bedrooms, swims in the heated pool, and wonderful dinners and wines. Cahors is only a 10-minute drive

An elegant medieval manor in the Loire with spiral stone staircases, mullioned windows, jaunty turrets and a fairytale suite just for you

Smart, spacious house for 12 with great views over the family vineyard - arrange a tasting, walk the Cotswold Way, cycle the canal towpath

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