Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

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

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

Just one hour from London, this remarkable house sits on a unique family-owned Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A sculptor's studio, flooded with light, converted into a restful holiday home surrounded by glorious countryside, near Totnes

A relaxed home-from-home feel at this Spanish house with old-fashioned charm, a big garden and pool and lovely views from every window

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

Character and quirk in old and new design and furnishing – private terraces, a shared pool, great walking, cycling and wine-tasting

A lovely modern Provençal house, light and welcoming, in a valley of vineyards and forest, tucked peacefully away from the coast

Come with friends for a cookery course, or with the kids, and enjoy the creative feel of the place - and the food! Venice 40 mins by train

The largest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

In glorious rural Umbria, a spacious old farmhouse with magnificent views of mountains and Lago Trasimeno, rustic décor and a lovely pool

Come for wide open countryside criss-crossed by a myriad of footpaths and this very comfortable, stylish and roomy retreat

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

Chill under poolside palm trees or lose yourself in novels on super comfy armchairs. Funchal with its colourful markets is within easy reach

Eschew the crowds for your own slice of bliss in this ancient hamlet with village green - self-catering with a hotel feel and dreamy pool