Crackling fires in winter, croquet in the summer. Life ticks by peacefully - rooms are engagingly old-fashioned, the garden is much-loved

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

An immaculately restored cottage with a blissful sun room, private terrace, gardens, pool and orchard for a warm and peaceful hideaway

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious

A beautifully restored townhouse in the heart of Amboise, steps from Leonardo da Vinci's last home and the great Château Royal

The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards

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

Location, location, location - you can't beat it, so look past the dated kitchen and bathrooms and enjoy this light, bright, coastal home

Slow down! Swim, soak in the jacuzzi, taste Campanian cuisine and wine, explore the national park, pop to Agropoli's beaches... be pampered

A tempting trio of retreats with unlimited access to exceptional gardens, and a welcome homemade cream tea. Come as a pair, or a small group

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

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

B&B as it should be. Home-cooked breakfast in an Aga-warmed kitchen, a comfortable bedroom with garden views, a beach you can walk to

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

A handsome house with breath-taking mountain views: perfect for summer holidays and walking in spring and autumn

A beautifully renovated traditional manor house with extensive gardens and orchard, a pool with a deck in a meadow and a terrace for dining

The perfect country cottage made of pretty Quercy stone, with generously sized rooms and outside dining with gorgeous rural views