Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

A lovely old cottage in the grounds of a Provençal mas with a delightful private courtyard, use of a large pool and a magnificent garden

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious

A humdinger of a pub, hidden in a sleepy village in the Surrey Hills, oozing character and charm and with delicious food and comfy bedrooms

In the foothills of the Pyrenees, a rambling, romantic garden to lose yourself in, a large swimming pool, wildlife and vineyards all around

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

Steps from the sea in get-away-from-it-all scenery – half an hour’s walk from St Ives’ arty heart. Sleeps 4 with pull-out beds for 2 more

An immaculately restored 1500s palazzo, filled with history, art, antiques and books in the buzzing heart of a charming town

A peaceful, romantic village escape for couples, plus a babe-in-arms, attached to the welcoming owners' home in the Scottish Borders

A homespun inn with irresistible prices in a tiny village deep in the country - the river Tweed is close, fishing can be arranged

Characterful mansion in west Wales set in 10 acres of greenery with a lake; glorious beaches and good restaurants are a short drive away

A charming gite tucked into acres of ancient parkland, with an outdoor kitchen and deer wandering by at dusk

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

A grand spot with superb Peak District views for this secluded, immaculate conversion of a handsome stable block - spacious and light

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms