Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

Overlooking Menton and the Mediterranean, this lofty apartment in a grand Belle Époque palace is perfectly placed to explore the Riviera

A lovingly restored 19th-century farmhouse sitting between the Galtees and Ballyhouras, with a hot tub waiting at day's end

A super upside-down house perched on a cliff in bustling Saundersfoot with glorious views over the beach and the Atlantic

High-up, simple apartments, pools with fabulous views; kids play-things and donkeys, the glittering coast, Rapallo and Portofino down below

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

Romantic cottage within 25 acres of fields, garden and orchard with fresh veg to pick, wellies for walking and animals roaming the farm

Historic, indulgent, atmospheric – and the Contessa is so warm. Vineyards, restaurants, operas, walks...La dolce vita on Slovenia's border

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

In a mellowstone village with a jolly pub, a super raftered barn with generous touches. Friendly owners next door know the Cotswolds well...

An airy, well-designed hideaway for two in an ancient barn on a quiet farm. This is prime walking country with Hadrian’s Wall nearby.

Two villas on opposite shores of a big lily-covered lake, fed with natural spring water from the Ticino river and surrounded by gardens

A gorgeous big old house on a farm in a very quiet part of Wiltshire - the undiscovered North Wessex Downs, filled with wildlife and an AONB

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Sitting next to the church in the most picturesque village in England, this ancient, handsome cottage is packed with historical interest

Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

Ease yourself into a rather more gracious lifestyle from this sweet retreat on a historic estate with gorgeous walled gardens

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers