Live like a local. Art lovers, book lovers and walkers will be happy here above an art gallery in the centre of town

Quirky townhouse on the edge of the Peak District, with country walks from the door, plus shops, cinema, heritage centre, bistros and pubs

A smartly refurbished village pub with its own micro-brewery and a huge emphasis on cooking great food from a network of local suppliers

Delightful almshouse, steeped in history, in a peaceful churchyard setting with far-reaching countryside views

A small, rural cottage high in the wooded hills with long views, your own private pool, utter peace and quiet and a superb restaurant nearby

Come to slow down and be well fed at this beautiful 14th-century manor with 60 acres of grounds and views across the Cotswolds

5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

Rustic, relaxing, comfortable and fun with pool and play area, river beaches, great hosts, peaceful countryside, an hour from Porto

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

Swings, a terrace and pool in 2 acres ringed by fields and tranquility, and lakes and vineyards beyond. Family bliss in Quercy

A taste of old Italy in this off-the-beaten-track rustic house on three levels, exquisitely restored and with elegant designer furnishings

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Rooms are good value, breakfast is taken overlooking the garden and there's superb veggie food next door - a Sawday's Community Champion

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

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

A perfect spot with views of hills, forest and vines, below the beautiful village of Castelnau de Montmiral. Walks, wildlife, wine tours...