An impressive, south-facing bastide on three floors with a sunny pool, lovely garden and grounds that stretch to vineyards and garrigue

Birders will love escaping up here, golfers too - visit Hatfield House, Knebworth, Cambridge - come back to a good local pub and a comfy bed

A gorgeously remote Tuscan farmhouse with stunning views of the Apuan Alps, a dreamy saltwater pool and relaxing deck for admiring it all

A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top

Unwind here in the rolling hills with the river bustling along, your own secluded garden and an unpretentious cottage full of character

Swings, a terrace and pool in 2 acres ringed by fields and tranquility, and lakes and vineyards beyond. Family bliss in Quercy

Light-filled house full of modern art and antique finds with stunning gardens and a pool. The best of Provence is on your doorstep

Luxuriate in style at this central Lecce palazzo with gorgeous rooms, delicious breakfasts (lunch & dinner by arrangement). Walk everywhere

Smart country inn in Constable country with lovely rooms and food - grab a picnic, hire a boat and drift along the river Stour

A classic French beauty of a place; home to an engaging young family who love to entertain and look after you with great care

A three storey house and garden with sea glimpses in the 'vieux village' named for the Mimosa trees which flower in profusion in winter

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

A big old house with a lovely pool, surrounded by ancient olives just 3kms from the sea and deep in the heart of Bandol wine country

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers

An unbelievably stunning setting for this renovated 15th-century villa with garden on a hillside overlooking the famed Florence skyline

A lovely gîte, once a hunting lodge, with two private terraces overlooking the manicured gardens of an 1830s manor house

A characterful Northumberland cottage-that-once-was-a-barn, with peaceful pond views and some serious stargazing

A wall of glass frames the sea view - take drinks on the waterfront lawn in summer, or by the crackling fire in winter