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

Countryside and seaside all in one go – what could be more inspiring? Lovely Louisa lives down the road, on hand if you need her

A grand, 16th-century Breton château complete with dovecote, turret and chapel surrounded by 50 acres of parkland, woods and small lake

Families can unwind at this lovely old higgledy-piggledy farmhouse in typical southern Algarve style, with a big pool and lush greenery

Relaxed, bohemian vibe out in the wilds yet close to civilization. An organic garden and woodland yurt add to the convivial, communal idyll

An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

In peaceful Burgundy countryside, a beautifully-restored farmhouse with B&B rooms, delicious regional food and an inviting pool

Elegant rooms behind a popular village pub with country walks from the door, and the spectacular Peak District and stately homes nearby

Bring boots, maps, your dog and an appetite for high places and deep comfort in this restored farm conversion

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

A Georgian townhouse full of character for an epic family and friend get-together. The best of Hay is a stroll away

Drink a toast to your good fortune as you gaze across to Elba from a vast free-standing bath. You breakfast on the view-filled terrace

A gracious 17th-century manor house and a pretty Grange hidden down a tree-lined drive and with stunning views over woodlands

Remote and rural, this cosy cottage is a slice of Welsh heaven, with plenty to do and see just a short drive away

Beauty, charm and tranquillity an hour from Florence, on a bio-sensitive farm known for Chianina cattle and white truffles

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

A sparkling house for two overlooking azure waters, starry skies and Stromboli’s light show - that’ll do nicely grazie

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon