This is Somerset at its most quintessential: a thatched roofed, honey-coloured Hamstone cottage with a pretty courtyard garden; sleeps four

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Come to this charming hideaway cabin for two (plus one) facing Lac de Montriond for a back-to-nature escape near Morzine

Easy-going, stylish rooms, a lovely, relaxing garden with natural pool - 1hr north of Lisbon and close to some of the world’s best beaches

A celebration of all things Somerset in a thatched village opposite the church and close to National Trust Barrington Court and Gardens

Come for sublime Highland scenery, birds and wildlife, long walks and complete peace and tranquillity

Next to a glorious National Trust estate, an exceptional barn renovation, a honeymooners’ dream – and Marsden a stroll downhill

Adorable cottage with a Highland lodge feel – walk straight into the hills, swim in the Spey, relax in the whisky room and sitooterie

A lovely old traditional mas, built around a courtyard with lots of outdoor space and rambling gardens for happy gatherings, and sunny days

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

Deep in Calvados near vibrant Caen, a cider barn with stylish bedrooms, quirky objets, a bar in the salon. Charming hosts welcome families

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

Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

Come for very comfortable B&B suites with garden views in a converted 1880s barn with its own charming sitting and dining rooms

Furniture from home-grown wood, reclaimed tiles - beautiful. The Jurassic Coast is near, Bridport's antiques, too. Cycle, walk, spot birds

A striking 19th-century landmark deep in ancient woodland, reborn as a pub with beautifully restored rooms just a short hop from London