Lovingly renovated farmhouse amid vines and sunflowers, deep in the Charente countryside - small pool in garden, beaches 45 minutes away.

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

On its own wooded estate, a special manor house of character. Art on the walls, maps and wellies to borrow, gardens to romp in, super views

In the National Park with all its glories (Ashbourne for antiques, Chatsworth for history, Bakewell for its market), a sweet village cottage

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

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

A gorgeous wooden-clad off-grid cottage deep in the National Park with far-reaching views, unfussy interiors and spoiling extra treatments

Anouk & Gilles have fine-tuned their welcome. Lounge by the pool and dine exquisitely within their landscaped park

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

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

On the side of a hill in the little-known Marche, a happy young farmhouse with an elegant saltwater pool, and wonderful meals from Kelda

A very swish 1610 house, thoroughly refurbished, in the heart of old Chichester with oodles of space and a surprisingly large garden

Exposed beams and stone walls mix with modern art and minimalism to give a warm yet uncluttered luxury. Stylish yet relaxing

A very special design-led garden apartment on the ground floor of an elegant 1835 house on one of the prettiest crescents in the city

Historic wartime fields, now prime walking country, ring this pub with rooms - come for hearty food, cosy corners and a proper pint

History, tranquillity and genuine warmth in a beautifully restored medieval château, deep in the heart of the countryside

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

Submerge yourself in a magical landscape of sky, water and hills from this well-thought-out retreat, where silence reigns and peace is deep