A charming renovated stone gîte only 15km from Bergerac with a large outdoor pool, pretty gardens and walks and cycle rides from the door

Very relaxed B&B at this 17th-century country house just 5 minutes from the perched village of St-Paul-de-Vence and 10 from the sea

Artists, poets, nature lovers, walkers and dreamers will be happy in this simple, airy suite surrounded by a fecund garden and much peace

An 18th-century watermill with millrace and pond, now a smart B&B with a swimming pool and pretty gardens, run by charming English hosts

Converted stables in the grounds of a manor house in a peaceful village just outside Banbury with lovely walking in the Cherwell Valley

You're on an ancient packhorse trail just a stone's throw from the coast. There's a timeless feel to this place and the peace is deep

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Good old-fashioned hospitality in a quiet Highlands cottage ringed by roses and roe deer. Forest and coastal walks, shortbread and tea

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

Sofas in front of the fire, English wines and local ales, ambrosial food and smart rooms, all a short stroll from Sissinghurst Castle

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

Dine on wholesome farmhouse food, explore the lovely garden or catch up on your sleep in generous king-size beds. Pretty Cadaqués is close

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

Dreamy, languid beauty at this spacious, airy, arty house with garden and pool in typical Pugliese countryside

Enter through an impressive stone arch to discover this 16th-century fortified manor house with a gorgeous communal dining and seating area