Garden and mountain views from this pretty villa for two - Lake Como shimmers below. Pick up morning pastries in picturesque Mezzegra

A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

A deliciously cool loft hideaway set among tall sycamores in the grounds of the main house, with a New York Tribeca feel and much comfort

A gorgeous barn conversion in the heart of the High Weald with superb walking, only five miles from Tunbridge Wells

A bright, colourful lodge, part of an 18th-century abbey with a private garden, swimming pool, books, games and a cosy fire

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

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

Play boules in the garden, swim in the natural pool and enjoy Monica’s wonderful cooking served with local wines at this village farmhouse

Your own cosy apartment in the once arty, now classy Latin Quarter. An elegant, romantic and peaceful bolthole for 2

Understatedly stylish with French antiques, sofas and balconies overlooking town and gardens. A grown-ups' retreat, 200m from the ocean

Experience the pleasures of traditional Tuscan living with fabulous food and fine wines from the family vineyard

Elegant house with sprawling gardens and space for family and friends, within walking distance of the coast

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

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

A 200-year-old quintessential Umbrian farmhouse with pool, immersed in nature and with no immediate neighbours for lazy, peaceful days

You're overlooking the main square in medieval Umbertide from this cosy, second-floor apartment, so you'll feel very much like a local

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

A very comfortable and attractive 1820 gate lodge surrounded by mature trees on a family estate, in gently rolling countryside