Hike down secret paths and along the Suffolk coast before a superb lunch or supper at this friendly inn; sweet bedrooms too

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

A tranquil and tucked-away feel for this terraced cottage with private patio, communal garden and plenty of room for six

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

A botanical beauty deep in the Loire Valley, this elegant house has history and heart in abundance

Up the drive flanked by grazing horses, to a warm welcome from the housekeeper and a great fire in the hall. Perfect for family gatherings

A beautiful old building with generous windows, arched doorways and opulent interiors in the glorious countryside by a fairy tale château

Elegant stable cottage in the heart of Northumberland, with lush gardens and cosy interiors. Explore castles, coast and countryside

Location, location, location - you can't beat it, so look past the dated kitchen and bathrooms and enjoy this light, bright, coastal home

Château apartments with a heated pool, parkland and a menagerie - Gold Beach and the British Normandy Memorial are on the doorstep

Come for a delightful sojourn in this old baronial villa with historic winery, gorgeous guest rooms, a wellness area and infinity pool

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

Delightful almshouse, steeped in history, in a peaceful churchyard setting with far-reaching countryside views

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

Friendly hosts, lovely log fires, delicious dinners, interesting antiques – and Frederick’s special tours of a WWI memorial site

A small, rural cottage high in the wooded hills with long views, your own private pool, utter peace and quiet and a superb restaurant nearby

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners