An old sporting lodge in Argyll renovated with sensitivity – fish in the river, gaze at the night skies, climb Ben Udlaidh

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

Come for plenty of space and wonderful views to the Pyrenees on clear days from this converted outbuilding in the grounds of a château

Great for comfort, beauty, character and home baking. Borrow vintage bikes to explore Cambridge: Christine knows it inside out

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

Simple country cottage living on a working organic farm. Bring your hiking boots or bikes, stride out from the door

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

Old meets new in Benoit’s charming villa with courtyard pool, breakfasts to linger over and all the fun of La Baule on the doorstep

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

This hidden valley is the dreamiest part of South Devon. Catch the ferry across the Dart; gaze on the hills; snuggle up by the wood-burner

Two duplex apartments filled with art and sculptures inside a beautiful 18th-century orangery, minutes from magnificent Versailles

A beautifully restored listed barn of Westmorland stone sitting in a conservation area village in spectacular walking country, near Appleby

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

A countryside escape for 2 near Chepstow with traditional interiors and cheery wood-burner. Not suitable for children but dogs very welcome

A traditional stone bergerie high on a hill and surrounded by woods with east-facing views over the valley for stunning sunrises

Large, unpretentious and very comfortable family house in splendid isolation with swimming pool, tennis court and well-tended gardens

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden