A natural idyll made even better by friendly owners. Bask in the mountain views, explore astonishing Asturias, settle into the slow pace

An absolute peach of an apartment on the first floor of this iconic building with stunning views over the harbour and St Michael's Mount

A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

Wood-burners, water sports and wildlife at four cosy farm conversions a half mile from their own quay. Wild swimming and barbecues await

Ease through a beautiful wrought iron gate to a courtyard and an elegant 1700s creamy stone holiday house, part of the château estate

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely

Cosy bolthole for two in a tiny hamlet next to a river and pub; walk the hills or spend the day at the unspoiled coast

Pops of colour and neon signs bring fun to this smart and warm family home near Brancaster beach

Hidden in a beautiful, timeless valley with gorgeous gardens, mellow stone bridge, views and rushing river, is a very special place to stay

Tranquillity and comfort in a guesthouse in the Marche countryside - airy rooms for couples with huge windows onto good views

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

A Victorian house on a 5000 acre estate, snazzily renovated and tucked down a track with a private lake, in the quieter part of Cumbria

A stylish mountain chalet under the watchful gaze of Mont Blanc, with a private chef, hot tub and sauna

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

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

Magnificent house with old-fashioned charm and gardens leading down to the Beaulieu River – take the footpath to Beaulieu or Bucklers Hard

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens