Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

A newly built house facing the sea and surrounded by acres of land – perfect for swimmers, sailors, nature lovers and peace seekers

Your own wing of an impressive 1700 baronial castle, restored with authenticity and with a lovely garden, wildlife and a little river

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

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

Traditional house in a rural part of the Algarve with a spectacular garden, a pool and a tennis court, and restaurants a short stroll

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

A luxurious eco-retreat plus extra room in the Space Conker in private woodland with breathtaking views to the Chaîne des Aravis and Mont Blanc

The central part of a much larger building in a 17th-century hamlet with bright, spacious rooms, shared pool and glorious private gardens

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

Nestled in lovely grounds, this country pub serves up cracking food and real ales. Wonderful walks nearby, comfy rooms to rest for the night

Irresistible for art, design and heritage-lovers, bird-watchers and those who love to explore Norfolk's wide open spaces

Sweet Grade II listed fisherman's terrace cottage for 4 (+ 1) close to the centre of bustling St Ives; a place to escape to year-round

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

An exquisitely restored 1850s townhouse, steeped in history, with a sweet garden and within walking distance of the historic centre of Porto

A natural idyll made even better by friendly owners. Bask in the mountain views, explore astonishing Asturias, settle into the slow pace

Bedrooms are gorgeous, the wild ocean is close, and the people of Galicia are friendly and caring. You’ll pick up the same vibe here