White-painted beams, wonky white walls and your own parking spot fairly nearby. You're near the harbour and subtropical gardens

Beautifully restored house with a literary history, no neighbours and private access to a sandy bay beyond the pines

A peaceful, stylish getaway for two within the charming owners' home with shared pool, fabulous views - and all of Provence to (re)visit

Gently undulating countryside surrounds you at this Burgundy B&B with fresh, modern bedrooms and delicious dinners prepared by the owner

Come for the gloriously peaceful countryside and this 1700s house and garden, scrupulously renovated and with plenty of space

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

Adorable cottage with a Highland lodge feel – walk straight into the hills, swim in the Spey, relax in the whisky room and sitooterie

Bring family or friends to this beautiful 16th-century stone manor house standing in a tiny hamlet in the heart of the Dordogne

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

Airy, spacious, sunny. This Lot gîte is a delight: linen curtains, oak stair, sunny pool. Sarlat and painted caves are an easy venture away

There’s a calm feel to this three-storey cottage, close to the centre of Bridport and the beach. Great for families, walkers and dogs

Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

Immaculate Cotswold beauty with great food, welcoming staff, handsome rooms and a sun-trap terrace, plus countryside walks from the door

Perched on a hillside between mountains and sea is this charming house in a modern Spanish style, engulfed by a beautiful garden with views

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

Feel like a film star in this fun, 50s-inspired former chapel with its own record collection; walk to the coast path or the friendly local

A shady terrace runs the full length of this old barn, overlooking magnificent trees and fields of sheep. Riberac is a 10-minute drive

Irresistible for art, design and heritage-lovers, bird-watchers and those who love to explore Norfolk's wide open spaces