Aperitifs on arrival, wine tastings in the hills, a pool with a view...both wine lovers and families will love these apartments & B&B rooms

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

Once a coach house, now a split-level place to stay – you can walk to the river and it's just a short hop to central London

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards

Cosy and comfortable eco cottages near to sleepy Sidmouth, where grown-ups can relax and children can play safely in the gardens

An 18th-century limestone barn, now a quiet hideaway for a group of friends or family in a very rural spot surrounded by fields and woods

Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

A semi-detached 19th-century stone cottage, scrupulously renovated with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and terrace in a quiet spot

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

A snug Snowdonia bolthole arranged around a vast boulder, once home to Victorian artists inspired by the setting. For romantic hikers

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Relaxed country-chic worthy of a photo shoot at these beautifully turned-out apartments in deep countryside... gaze on heaven from the pool

Two peaceful olive grove farmhouses, a shared pool with incredible views, hours of hiking along beautiful trails, Pisa and Lucca nearby

An elegant townhouse made up of two apartments on a lively piazza a short stroll from the sea. Live like a local in pretty Monopoli

Beautiful Noto is 4 miles from the Ionian Sea, and this creative renovation, with lush garden, stands above the throng. Heaven in Sicily

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site