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

An elegant solution to a hotel - no rooms, but 13 charming villas in the heart of the maquis, nearly all with a private pool

Perfect for families - a glorious farmhouse surrounded by lavender fields. Rooms are huge and children can roam free in the vast gardens

A striking, newly thatched and revamped pub with spoiling bedrooms, an inviting bar and menus overseen by Raymond Blanc - you'll eat well

Two duplex apartments filled with art and sculptures inside a beautiful 18th-century orangery, minutes from magnificent Versailles

A modern take on an Iron Age roundhouse with stunning sea views in Scotland’s wild west, perfect for couples

You have the whole North Wing of this beautiful old farmhouse with a private east-facing courtyard for early morning tea as the sun rises

Cosy Lakeland stone barn in acres of peaceful countryside for walkers, wildlife lovers and those wishing for a retreat

Peaceful, traditional country house just 2 miles from central Dorking. Relaxed hosts, good food, beautiful gardens, walks galore - a retreat

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

A delightful retreat perfectly placed for walking, cycling and visiting some of the region’s most popular sights

A beautifully renovated apartment in a quiet street in central Bordeaux, with fine old features and all modernities. Ideal for couples

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

In the heart of a starlight reserve in a protected natural park, three authentic cottages with walks from the door for immersion in nature

You’ll feel super snug in these 2 stunning eco builds blending into the wildly beautiful Isle of Harris coastal landscape

Come for a quintessentially English country cottage tucked down a village path with wisteria in the garden and a short walk to a foodie pub

Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, is this 14th-century defence tower above the river Tweed