Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

A bright and prettily beamed barn with very comfortable interiors, private outdoor seating and a shared courtyard for barbecues and games

A heated pool, charming B&B rooms and acres of beautiful grounds beside the Adour River - Bayonne and Biarritz are close

A much-loved family home filled with warmth and characterful interiors overlooking Loch Alsh where dolphins and seals frolic

Pluck grapes, splash in the child-shallow pool and explore the ‘Yorkshire of Italy’ with rolling green hills and conical trulli

Remote barn in the middle of Northumberland National Park with views for miles, wonderful walking trails and clear starry skies

A lovely, spacious 1830s house in the heart of arty Westport with nearly an acre of garden, an apple orchard and the river running past

A light, bright and contemporary B&B in a quiet spot, with a garden overlooking the sea, the oyster beds and the passing boats

A cosy bolthole on a scenic estate with red kites soaring overhead and views to Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) - the walking is sublime

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

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

A sculptor's studio, flooded with light, converted into a restful holiday home surrounded by glorious countryside, near Totnes

Contemporary boathouse for all the family. Find rock pools, a shingle beach and plenty of ozone in the salty Cornish air

1800s coastal watchtower meets organic farm at a small hotel with a proud restaurateur and sea views from high mezzanine rooms

Come to be cosseted in this gloriously peaceful retreat among beautiful gardens with much old-fashioned charm and excellent food

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests