A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

Walk, ride, bike or canoe, climb a mountain, head for Hay, then return to a comfortable bar, warm bedrooms and delicious food

The view is pure Canaletto, the vibe is modern and laid back. Just minutes from all Venice’s best bits, but with far fewer tourists

Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

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

Old meets new in Benoit’s charming villa with courtyard pool, breakfasts to linger over and all the fun of La Baule on the doorstep

History, tranquillity and genuine warmth in a beautifully restored medieval château, deep in the heart of the countryside

A lovingly converted eco barn overlooking a wildflower valley in arty Pembs. For honeymoons and mini moons... a slice of heaven!

Escape to mountains, sea and sky, simple rooms and lovely food. Walk, swim, read, write, nurture your soul

Charming, vivacious hosts make you feel welcome at this splendid 16th-century home. Cooking classes, wine pairing and excellent regional food

An elegant townhouse made up of two apartments on a lively piazza a short stroll from the sea. Live like a local in pretty Monopoli

An adorable little 1800s cottage with a garden – simple, unpretentious and filled with the owner's colourful art on walls and lampshades

Get the full-English bucolic countryside experience at this boutique inn right in the heart of a quintessentially pretty Cotswold village

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

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

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate