Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

Landscaped gardens, orchard and potager blend into Normandy countryside. Return from rural walks to a log fire and comfortable armchairs

Enjoy views over the lake, eat good food in the restaurant, sleep in antique-filled bedrooms, have a proper rest

A sumptuous spot with luxurious touches at every turn in beautiful Moneglia - far removed from its monastic roots. Opulent and romantic

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

An open-plan kitchen, sunny terrace and fruitful gardens shine at this private hillside villa. From here, it's easy to ski, swim or sunbathe

Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

Heaps to do on-site: organic farm shop & café, cookery & cheese-making courses, farm tours. A brilliant base for exploring the Cotswolds too

Top-notch apartments in the heart of old Jérez for couples and families on the bodega trail. A daily market in town and fab beaches near by

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

Feel right at home in a thatched farmhouse on South Pool Creek, with cottage garden views, great breakfasts and a good local pub

High in the Tuscan hills, at the end of an avenue of cypresses, surrounded by parkland and acres of olives... a 13th-century dream

Perfect château B&B with pointy turrets and pale blue shutters, surrounded by gorgeous countryside, a cycle route and ancient villages

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Come to restore your soul, be immersed in nature, wander paths in the lovely grounds and make memories with family or friends

A big, comfortable house with heated outdoor pool in 17 acres of gardens. Mountains, river swimming, hiking nearby; coast within the hour