Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

Rolling lawns, Georgian glamour and countryside views – gather the gang for slow days, wild walks and starry Northumberland skies

A peaceful cottage for 2-4 between the Dales and the Moors, with swallows in the barn, an idyllic village, and a garden to explore

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

Immaculate apartments with private patios and well-equipped kitchens share oleander-bright gardens and a chlorine-free pool

A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

A wonderful place to stay whether you enjoy golf or not, with big skies, sea views, sumptuous bedrooms, delicious food and attentive staff

Glorious, thoughtful food, ales and wines using 'as much good stuff they can lay their hands on' at this restaurant with lovely rooms

Luxuriate in style at this central Lecce palazzo with gorgeous rooms, delicious breakfasts (lunch & dinner by arrangement). Walk everywhere

Portuguese elegance, artistic décor, breakfast on a fountain'd patio or by the fire: a treat. Step out to a kaleidoscope of Lisbon city life

Once a pub, now a friendly home, with all you need for a market town break. Park the car (or leave at home) – everything is on the doorstep

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

Restored 18th-century farm building surrounded by countryside, with a good pub a short walk away and Lake Windermere a ten-minute drive

A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

Vast house on an ancient Roman site with big terraced garden and pool. Grand yet homely, with air-con, spa and only 8 km to the city

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

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants