A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

You're on an ancient packhorse trail just a stone's throw from the coast. There's a timeless feel to this place and the peace is deep

It's not often you get an entire hamlet to yourselves but here it is – 10 traditional stone houses with big communal spaces in rural bliss

An elegant manor house with pretty bedrooms, pool and large grounds. Nathalie looks after you with ease and sets you up with big breakfasts

Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

A house on a hill (El Nido means The Nest) built in the Moorish style surrounded by sea views and the green hills of the Granada coastline

A magical Scottish Baronial-style house with stunning valley views; stroll to good restaurants, explore the spectacular Borders

Hideaway at the bottom of the garden with a little courtyard and far-reaching views; walk to the village pub or take a day trip to Bath

Near Southwold - rich colours, fresh flowers and exotica! Fields for the dogs, walled gardens for you, logs, umbrellas, digital showers...

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

A gorgeous house with oodles of original features, a lovely garden and the owners' pub, farm shop, brewery and spa a short walk

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

Charming trulli apartments promise rustic comfort and panoramic views (horses too). Perfectly placed for exploring the area

An eye-catching ancient inn with a colourful flower garden in summer, delicious local food and very presentable bedrooms

Traditional beamed cottage, tucked in the hills, with views to distant beaches plus colourful gardens and a pool

Marvellously quirky bolthole right on Lyme Regis seafront with stunning views; perfect for beach combers and boutique browsers

A very grand façade for this handsome Charente village house with a beautiful, peaceful garden, creamy stone walls and olive trees