A stylish retreat in the heart of St Ives offering a glimpse of the sea – with an extra double sofabed room for friends or children

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

Come to restore your soul, be immersed in nature, wander paths in the lovely grounds and make memories with family or friends

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

Stunning design and buzzing community vibe. This pod is for 4 (+ 2) and the lower floor is fully accessible - a Sawday's Community Champion

An ancient building filled with beauty and sitting in the quietest SSSI valley, criss-crossed by medieval drove ways buzzing with wildlife

Stylish apartment overlooking a vibrant market in the old city, with restaurants and historic attractions in easy walking distance

Friendly owners settle you in to this cool, creatively styled barn. Perfect for groups & families with big pool & garden

Four stylish Andalusian retreats surrounded by olive groves and almond trees, and a restaurant for wonderful, seasonal food

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

Late 18th-century stone-built farmhouse in undulating countryside with wonderful walks from the door, golf nearby and much comfort within

Straight out of a fairy tale, a rustic cottage by a babbling brook: a magical escape for couples, the craggy coast in easy reach

A calm, leafy bolthole in one of Paris' most elegant districts. Step out to stylish boutiques, good bakeries – and the Eiffel Tower

Near Southwold beach, bird reserves and Suffolk castles, a peaceful getaway with delicious breakfasts for nature lovers and bird watchers

A treat in any season, a place to stir your soul, yield to nature and learn how to play again - with a pretty fine roost to come home to