A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

Charming cottage surrounded by acres of wildflower meadows: drive to Newport in 15 minutes, walk the Pembrokeshire coastline

A spacious farmhouse with a pool in the grounds of a stately château. Wander the walled garden, explore the countryside and pretty villages

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

A cosy bolthole near Paris's best museums, monuments and churches. A peaceful sleep and simple buffet breakfast set you up for sightseeing

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

Ease yourself into a rather more gracious lifestyle from this sweet retreat on a historic estate with gorgeous walled gardens

For escapists, wannabe writers and lovers of rural bliss: two boho hideaways for two (four at a squeeze) in this lush corner of Galicia

Stone farmhouse on a country estate, family-run for centuries. Views of the towered gatehouse, pool and tennis court, a walk to the river...

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

Sweep through vast wrought iron gates to this elegant Grade I listed Georgian country house with a swimming lake, yoga studio and sauna

You’ll feel nicely independent in this spacious open-plan hideaway surrounded by colourful gardens and Corscombe valley views

Families and walkers will be happy at this unfussy seaside retreat with beaches down the road and coastal paths right by your door

Rustic charm meets modern comfort in peaceful Devon hideaway set in acres of wild meadows and ancient orchards, with glorious swimming pool

Wrapped in fields and woods, this big traditional house has crisply furnished interiors and plenty of gadgets. Terraced gardens and pool too

Three simple, traditional apartments in an ancient convent building with a beautiful botanical garden in the heart of the historic centre

A truly special barn conversion, flooded with light and with its own decked outdoor space surrounded by bucolic countryside

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate