Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

Country house set in a secluded valley in a nature reserve with a pool & walks from the door. The small town of Jabugo is just over the hill

You have the whole North Wing of this beautiful old farmhouse with a private east-facing courtyard for early morning tea as the sun rises

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

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

An enchanting escape immersed in nature yet only 40 minutes by train into the Eternal City for art and history-filled days

Everything you’d want of a lovely country inn – pretty rooms, tasty food, local ales in a beamed bar and fabulous walking

You’ll feel nicely independent in this spacious open-plan hideaway surrounded by colourful gardens and Corscombe valley views

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

Tucked at the bottom of a long track and surrounded by a gorgeous natural landscape, is this generous end-slice of a 17th-century stone farm

A stylish Sicilian farmhouse that feels like a home with hotel luxuries. Come for a generous welcome, lovely beaches and gorgeous local food

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

A delight to stay in this 1880s croft house on the quieter west coast - fabulous vegetarian and vegan food, thoughtful rooms, lovely owners

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

Apartments with a designer touch in a peaceful, evocative setting; private gardens, intimate terraces, infinity pool, stunning lake views and a gourmet restaurant

Come for much grace, space and inspiration in this huge-windowed, view-filled spot surrounded by gloriously untrammelled countryside

You’re in the heart of untamed countryside here, beside the river Oise, welcomed by friendly hosts who cook and care for you