Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

Explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, or simply sunbathe next to the pool... Leafy gardens, comfortable rooms and excellent dinners

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

The views are sensational, the bedrooms full of charm and higgledy-piggledy beams. Sip Perigord Noir on the terrace and amble to the market

Deliciously comfortable, hospitable, boutique B&B - in a secluded village within easy reach of Reims and the vineyards of Champagne

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

For families who love a Great British beach holiday, this beach-side cottage on Hayling Island near Portsmouth is just the ticket

Come for huge skies, birds and wildlife, rare flora and fauna, precious pingo ponds and a comforting retreat from the hectic whirl

A beautifully converted building, part of an old mill, now a gorgeous place to stay with the stream running through and shared parkland

Three beautiful spaces for a much-awaited gathering of friends and family. Share the glorious gardens, swim in the pool, create memories

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

Explore from this picturesque village; hike, cycle or ride through beautiful nature. Lay your head in creative, comfortable rooms

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

There's a lovely welcome at this manoir near the sea with its family-friendly room arrangements (cottages, kitchens) and its outdoor pool

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

The smallest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views