Magical sunshine-filled grounds with olive trees, palms, cacti and carob surround the charmingly-coloured stone of these 1750 farm buildings

Get away from it all in 'old' France, where melons taste like melons & hikes start from the door. This rural bolthole is a serious treat

A delightful coastal cottage with far-reaching ocean views from almost every room, two gardens and a short hop to beach and Coast Path

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Walkers, bikers, families and nature fans will love staying with ever-helpful Joan and Montse in this secluded but not too remote valley

A serene retreat basking above the Algarve with sea views from the garden and pool, and charming Moorish details

At the gates of a country estate, two quirky hexagonal lodge houses with private outdoor seating and acres of grounds for walks and picnics

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

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners

A fairytale château with ancient roots, now beautifully renovated with lovely bedrooms, terrace, garden and ponds for gracious living

A slice of rural heaven close to the Pembrokeshire coast - good rooms, hearty food, wonderful walks and beautiful beaches wait

An impressive manor house set in gentle rolling countryside ten miles from Oxford with a delightful garden, warm hosts and organic breakfast

Unwind here with wine tours, tastings, long walks, bird watching, cycling, or just chilling.Sleep peacefully, feel at home

Encircled by wild dales and rugged fells, this spoiling cottage cocoons you in countryside peace with the added fun of a sauna in the garden

Independence at one end of the house with your own sitting room opening onto a courtyard garden. Good pub for food a few minutes' walk away