A grand place for up to 12 adventurous souls and the young at heart: swim, bob in a boat, hike and cycle or simply revel in the greenery and peace

A finely crafted staircase, a friendly owner next door, an Alpine garden to die for - groups large and small will love this old watermill

A traditional cottage in Polruan on the Fowey estuary with harbour and cove views and a tea shop and two pubs in the village

Minutes from old Ajaccio (a scenic cycle ride) is a charming small hotel with a stunning bay setting, and majestic mountains behind

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

Stylish apartment overlooking a vibrant market in the old city, with restaurants and historic attractions in easy walking distance

An enchanting escape immersed in nature yet only 40 minutes by train into the Eternal City for art and history-filled days

Steam in the hot tub, gaze over crashing waves or later stars. Inside is swish, kids play in their games room, dinner is in view of the sea

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

Splash under the Elephant Arch, take a boat to the caves, set off for Tunisia! Then it’s back to a super-private room by the sea

A stylish, canal-side inn – you get Sunday lunch, tow paths that lead into Edinburgh, then a pretty garden and cute rooms

18th-century barn with charming hosts, an infinity pool, delicious breakfasts and good walks; drive five minutes for gourmet dining

For walkers and lovers of wildly beautiful coastal country: two cosy old cottages and a bright, modern renovation in a cluster with others

Historic, indulgent, atmospheric – and the Contessa is so warm. Vineyards, restaurants, operas, walks...La dolce vita on Slovenia's border

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

A light, bright Georgian townhouse in a residential street directly opposite the lovely Lido and restaurant, near Clifton Village

A light, bright village house with a courtyard garden - 5 minutes from Cabo da Roca where the sunsets and views are spectacular