An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

Spacious rooms and a cosy apartment a stone’s throw from Avignon’s historic sights. Retire to the heated pool after a busy day sightseeing

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Generous simplicity and organic farm cooking in this rustic Tuscan farm with library, yoga, family apartments and natural lily-dotted pond

Come for serene countryside, walks through bird-filled woods and this lovely old house with gracious hosts and very beautiful bedrooms

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

Elegantly restored mariner’s cottage with tasteful interiors and sweeping, uninterrupted views over the ever-changing estuary

Anouk & Gilles have fine-tuned their welcome. Lounge by the pool and dine exquisitely within their landscaped park

Part of the original Wensleydale creamery overlooking the river, with bustling Hawes and great walking country right on your doorstep

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

A thoughtfully renovated cottage in a small hamlet with garden, courtyard and pool. The peace is palpable but you're near to bustling Tusson

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

A traditional coaching inn dating from the 18th century with good food served in private and public dining rooms on the Wellington Estate

A delightful holiday home for a big family or group of close friends. Children and dogs can charge about safely, you can unwind completely

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A bright comfortable retreat in an enviable spot - riverside walks, Botanic Gardens and all the hip eateries of Stockbridge on your doorstep

A beautiful cream stone building in the grounds of a grand château, with a large and view-filled outdoor terrace for peaceful dawdling

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes