Stay on a secluded private estate by the sea - once the home of the brilliant French writer, Colette

Rustic farmhouse with two and a half acres of landscaped gardens, a swimming pool and views over the Pyrenees – the sunrises are amazing

A renovated Dordogne farmhouse infused with new life, plus a saltwater pool, an ancient fig tree, and Lascaux on the doorstep

Deep in vineyards near Liguria's coast, find attractive apartments, manicured lawns, infinity pool, space to relax and child-free serenity

Come for big open skies, sweeping beaches and the charming towns of north Norfolk from this pretty flintstone cottage in Docking village

A 17th-century Westmorland barn, fully renovated with a roomy living space and west-facing garden with views of High Street and Blencathra

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

Grade II-listed country hotel with lovely gardens and an excellent restaurant, a short walk from Ambleside and the top of Lake Windermere

A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

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

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

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

Relaxed country-chic worthy of a photo shoot at these beautifully turned-out apartments in deep countryside... gaze on heaven from the pool

Books, meadow flowers, a rocking chair by a cosy fire at this treasure-trove cottage of beautiful things - down tiny lanes in west Cork

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques