In an outstanding area for lovers of food and wine, here are 3 beautiful boltholes in the Alto Douro, the oldest wine region in the world

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

An immaculate stable retreat surrounded by gardens near Canterbury. Two couples could spend an idyllic week here, or a family of 5

Elegant house with sprawling gardens and space for family and friends, within walking distance of the coast

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

Such lovely views from this light-filled flat, built in the 19th century – curl up with a book and gaze out to sea

A great base from which to explore beautiful Pembrokeshire - walk by the coast, take to the hills, check out ancient St Davids

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea

Gather your favourites for a getaway in deepest France. Bike the countryside, dip in the heated pool and sprawl out in this inviting space

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

You’re in the heart of untamed countryside here, beside the river Oise, welcomed by friendly hosts who cook and care for you

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

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is lovely

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

A lovely farmhouse in Lot with acres of garden and a summer kitchen. Come ‘en famille’ for food, wine and lazy days by the pool.

Cakes from the host & eggs from the hens. Bring a party, bring the dogs, and soak up the history from a very fine house in the Cotswolds

An 18th-century fisherman's cottage with garden at the end of a cobbled row, for happy seaside holidays with superb beaches nearby

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place