Sea views, fulsome breakfasts and plenty of fresh air on a traditional farm. A rustic treat: Southern Italian rural life at its best.

Charming 4-star gîte in an 11th-century castle in the foothills of the Pyrénées. Spectacular views, leafy terrace and wild swimming nearby

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

Traditional beamed cottage, tucked in the hills, with views to distant beaches plus colourful gardens and a pool

A gem of a château in the wilds of Limousin with kind and thoughtful owners who are thoroughly immersed in this tranquil area

Simple but stylishly furnished village house, terrific hill-top views, low-impact design, organic cooking and a hot tub; utterly peaceful

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

In the “green heart” of Italy: great hosts, dreamy views, super pool, and food to fall in love with, including vegetarian

An ivy-covered old mill, newly restored as an inn with a relaxed feel, acres of manicured grounds, comfortable bedrooms and great food

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

A truly authentic place to stay on a Sicilian working farm with roaming hens, wheat fields, wild flowers and a distant view of the sea

Small and elegant family-run hotel with airy bedrooms, plenty of private spaces and a bus to take you to the centre of bustling Avignon

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

A converted 19th-century church in the Northumberland National Park with beautiful stained-glass windows and a restored tower

A joy for foodies, peace seekers and lovers of period architecture… note the Honduran mahogany banister with inlaid jet and pearl

A charming house in a lush green setting, secluded and quiet and with stunning views of the Tramuntana mountains and Fornalutx village

A stunning veranda wraps itself around the house: doze off in a wicker armchair or sip a drink at dusk as the sun melts into the valley

For lovers of tranquillity and simple pleasures with a private pool, tennis court, stunning views and forty acres to explore