An organic farm near coast, village and Etna – super for families, done in simple good taste. Laze in the hammock, visit the coast...

Blissful views to vineyards and mountains from this faithful reproduction of a 16th-century manor. Eat well, hike, bike, sauna and swim

Two cottages for couples: one more traditional, the other fresh and modern, both comfortable and romantic and there's a good pub next door

In the shadow of a Norman château on the Cherbourg Peninsula, a cosy house for three with private parking and restaurants outside the door

Magical for nature lovers, with wraparound views to the coastline of Skye. Inside: warmth, luxury and not a whisper from the wildest gale

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

Come to this cosy barn down a winding lane for a back-to-nature escape: hike the Black Mountains, splash in the stream, gaze at the views

Stylish hotel with big rooms, lovely food and a pretty garden overlooking the old castle moat - don’t miss the Mappa Mundi in the cathedral

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

Lovely owners have created this quirky space on their farm; side-by-side al fresco baths make it romantic for two

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

Great gulps of ozone will engulf you at this architect-designed 1960s beach house - light, bright and sparkling, just like the ocean

A picture-perfect village and a beautifully refurbished 17th-century inn with a cracking bar, stylish bedrooms and delicious pub food

Three family friendly gites with a contemporary feel, a saltwater pool, national trails to wander and wellness retreats on offer

In tranquil countryside close to the Ring of Kerry, a rustic farmhouse with wonderful stargazing and brilliant walks starting from the door

In glorious rural Umbria, a spacious old farmhouse with magnificent views of mountains and Lago Trasimeno, rustic décor and a lovely pool

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural