Head inland for grand walking or to the glorious coast from this very pretty cottage with a private garden, suitable and safe for dogs

Superbly comfortable house with beamed rooms, lovely views, club-like morning room, antiques, terrace, pool, fitness centre and lily pond

Elegant 19th-century château deep in the Dordogne forest promises seclusion, serenity and an unhurried, sun-soaked escape.

Come for a bright, roomy, uber-green and accessible larch-clad space with garden and pond in pretty countryside

Head down the Strood causeway and step back in time for a slice of Mersea Island's old-world charm: beaches, fresh oysters & a charming inn

Recharge and reconnect with your creative side in one of Ania's workshops; secret coves, wild swimming and coastal walks are all close

Small hotel in a hiker's paradise a short walk from Cómpeta with pool, spacious rooms, private terraces, breathtaking views and generous breakfasts

Traditional accommodation and organic food; handy for Bari but set peacefully in the countryside near Toritto, famed for its almonds

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

A fine old stone mill, the river rushing by, kingfishers, kayaking, swimming: it’s a dream place with Provence and the Cévennes at the door

A charming hotel in a quiet neighbourhood in medieval Bologna, just the ticket for a city escape filled with food, history and culture

A smart B&B in the heart of Beaune sitting quietly in half a hectare of gorgeous gardens; you're well looked after by your charming hosts

A heated pool, charming B&B rooms and acres of beautiful grounds beside the Adour River - Bayonne and Biarritz are close

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

Stay on a secluded private estate by the sea - once the home of the brilliant French writer, Colette