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

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

Deep in undulating countryside, three pretty stone cottages with a shared, family-friendly saltwater pool and charming, generous owners

Tea in the summerhouse, breakfast by the fire, fresh flowers all around this warm family home. Step out to historic Shrewsbury high street

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

Swap the mêlée for privacy and wonderful views. Delicious meals, an outdoor hot tub and Portes du Soleil skiing on your doorstep

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

A light and airy barn conversion, very comfortable and rural, sitting on a hill with views to the south overlooking the Stour valley

Up a narrow lane this dreamy pub with rooms has views to the South Downs. Stay for supper, let the kids run free in the garden playground

Come for Tudor beams, a sunny roof terrace and the bustle of Lewes in this beautifully restored coaching inn

An attractive converted stable with covered veranda, private garden and views over rolling countryside, minutes from the coast

A beautiful house with Pyrenean views, generous hosts and wonderful hiking, biking and skiing nearby. A rare pearl

An ever-changing interior for this stunning pod, commissioned by a different artist each year. Creative, fun - a Sawday's Community Champion

Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

Hideaway at the bottom of the garden with a little courtyard and far-reaching views; walk to the village pub or take a day trip to Bath

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano