Peace, space, nature in the Champagne-hugged Somme valley - and home-grown, organic meals with generous French hosts. Family-perfect

Remote three-bedroom cottage in Northumberland National Park, with far-reaching views over hills and valleys and walks in all directions

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

Come to be doused in nature, tradition and rare Vino Santo at this soulful retreat, girded by orchards between the Dolomites and Lake Garda

A small, rural cottage high in the wooded hills with long views, your own private pool, utter peace and quiet and a superb restaurant nearby

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

A rare treat to stay in this lovely stone farmhouse in the Durham Dales with acres of private farmland and magical interiors by Rita Konig

Treat yourselves to a seamless stay in this 255-year-old manor house with dreamy gardens, sumptuous bedrooms, sparkling pool and spa

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

A sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

Swim in the pool overlooking vineyards, try the wines and oil made onsite, get cosy by log fires or head to the nearby beach

A honey-hued family home clad with vines and roses with a swimming pool and heaps of space – perfect for families

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

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

Character and quirk in old and new design and furnishing – private terraces, a shared pool, great walking, cycling and wine-tasting

The views take your breath away, the breakfasts are beautiful, and you feel like you're staying in the home of dear friends

A stone built 18th-century tower in a pretty valley dotted with fruit trees for quiet and relaxed days recuperating from life in the city