A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

After a bountiful breakfast of Loch Fyne kippers and homemade scones, head for Oban, gateway to the isles. Return to a dram by the fire

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

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

Come to be looked after very well in this meticulously renovated old farmhouse with elegant bedrooms, tasty breakfasts and a kind host

Deep in undulating countryside, three pretty stone cottages with a shared, family-friendly saltwater pool and charming, generous owners

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

A very pretty Victorian gothic house of limestone and brick, sitting peacefully on the edge of the village, eight miles from foodie Ludlow

Come for stunning views down to the bay of La Herradura and this traditional, family-focused 1990s house on three floors

This small hotel with pool has elegant communal spaces, spoiling bedrooms, kind staff, delicious food and panoramic mountain views

A unique 1900 house and garden on the edge of Lyon, steeped in history and authenticity – a beautiful home with museum-quality objects

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

The beautiful Amalfi coast is the sublime setting for these two suites with a shared courtyard, citrus trees and stunning coastal views

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

This grand house on the river Derwent oozes old-fashioned comfort – find traditional bedrooms, delicious food and an open fire

Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers