Comfortable home with wood fires, gracious bedrooms and convivial living rooms. The drive is full of blossom and daffodils in spring

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Restored stone barn on a farm in the Lake District National Park, with views of fields and woods and an excellent pub nearby

The village is tiny, the bar is lively, the food is delicious. The Cotswolds are at your feet and you’re encouraged not to lift a finger

A peaceful retreat with yoga and activities to restore and renew, in the Andalusia hills between Granada and the Mediterranean coast

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

Immaculate apartments with private patios and well-equipped kitchens share oleander-bright gardens and a chlorine-free pool

A light and bright 1900s holiday home for family holidays by the sea, with a large enclosed garden and a short hop to beach and shops

Find gilded mirrors, rich brocades, Fragonard toiletries and an unexpected roof terrace at this 6-bedroom guest house near St Mark’s Square

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 gorgeous apartment in the heart of a Jacobean-style manor house with sweeping views over woodlands and the wonderful gardens

A delightful holiday home for a big family or group of close friends. Children and dogs can charge about safely, you can unwind completely

An artistic escape with a stunning kitchen in sleepy, gastronomic Lot – stroll to the village market and feast on local produce

A traditional country house experience with plenty of space for big family get-togethers, on a very old estate with fascinating gardens

Achingly trendy, a design-lover's dream with infinity pool, wine on the terrace, pampering spa and a sunny bay at your feet – stunning

A semi-detached 19th-century stone cottage, scrupulously renovated with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and terrace in a quiet spot

Gloriously green rural self-catering apartments with pool and lovely, friendly owners

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