An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

Stay just two kilometres from Siena's medieval gates with views over vineyards, lovely interiors, good food and pleasant gardens

In the heart of a starlight reserve in a protected natural park, three authentic cottages with walks from the door for immersion in nature

Families will adore coming here, to reconnect through wonderful outdoor activities in glorious countryside and to feel cossetted indoors

Take your time here. Lucy will take you round her wonderful garden, introduce you to her donkeys, and share her laid-back approach

A cracking English inn with open fires, great food, gorgeous rooms, happy staff, lovely gardens and well-kept English ales

Stylish eco barns with generous hampers - Threshing Barn sleeps 8, Hay Barn 2. Close to village, beach & pub, with friendly owners close by

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

Lively renovation for this 18th-century cottage built of local stone and with a large garden in Modbury. Totnes and sandy beaches are close

Come for an authentic French village experience in this old stone house next to the church with glorious countryside for walks and cycles

Sustainably built Suffolk retreat with plenty of space for friends and family to properly unwind - a steam room seals the deal

A striking, newly thatched and revamped pub with spoiling bedrooms, an inviting bar and menus overseen by Raymond Blanc - you'll eat well

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

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

A much-loved Tuscan villa restored to elegance: dinner on the terrace, frescoes, rose garden, a small spa…and Florence a 20-minute drive

Comfortable redbrick cottage with views on the Heydon Hall estate. It’s delightfully rural, yet close to Reepham for pubs and shops

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...