A charming villa in a quiet neighbourhood with pool, fab sea views & an easy stroll to eateries. Water sports & golf are easy from here

A stone building designed by Sir John Soane in the stable yard of this historic and beautiful estate with deer park and woodland gardens

Explore country markets, churches and châteaux - return to a gite in private parkland with an artist's studio on site, and a blissful pool

This fine old Dordogne house is run by well-travelled owners, has superb views and is a luscious mix of old charm and contemporary design

A roomy, open-plan space for romantics, with complete privacy but with pub, bakery and views of the market garden from your own terrace

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

A romantic cottage for two in the Pentland Hills, with views for miles and your own private garden with a wood-fired hot tub

Slowly does it at a rustic haven run with infectious enthusiasm and kindness by a truffle hunter with a passion for nature and food

Burrowed into the olive groves of the lush Valle d’Itria, a restored masseria with five trulli, an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub and lovely views

A comfy cottage for two in the quiet, leafy outskirts of Aix with easy access to the city and a kind, attentive owner nearby

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

Light-filled retreat full of character and vintage finds, with handmade touches and farm-fresh produce on your doorstep

Stylishly simple cottage in the heart of the old fishing port of Méze, within easy stroll of seafood restaurants and sandy beaches

A luxurious springboard for the wineries, villages and treasures of south Tuscany in the magical Orcia valley - if you can bear to leave it!

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

A pleasure to stay in such a dreamy château surrounded by a beautiful terrace, elegant gardens and parkland, a lake, river and waterfall

Jagged Dolomite peaks frame every view from this farmhouse with two neat apartments – come sun or snow, adventures in nature await

For families who love a Great British beach holiday, this beach-side cottage on Hayling Island near Portsmouth is just the ticket