A simple, elegant gîte high on a hillside on an old wine estate, surrounded by olives, vineyards and orchard just a short walk into Montcuq

A treat of a place in a vibrant suburb, a short tram ride from central Manchester. The ultimate combination of art and cool design

Modern comforts, traditional cosiness and a warm welcome. There are walks from the door, country houses to visit and a pub in the village

Historic 19th-century maison de maître, perfect for a gathering of friends, within walking distance of the old town’s charms

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

You get the best of all worlds here. Delicious beds, Provençal soaps, vineyard views, fresh croissants a stroll away…

A roomy, stylish barn conversion in Devon's rolling hills with wonderful walks from the door and panoramic views of the Exe valley

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Former hunting lodge with a swimming pool on a 700-acre wine estate in the Valdera surrounded by vineyards and authentic villages

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

Perched on a hillside between mountains and sea is this charming house in a modern Spanish style, engulfed by a beautiful garden with views

Nothing but birdsong and the gentle murmur of the nearby river disturbs the velvety peace of this secluded oasis

In a leafy, peaceful part of Frome – a very civilised bolthole for two. A big garden is yours to share, friendly owners live next door

Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

A peaceful, romantic village escape for couples, plus a babe-in-arms, attached to the welcoming owners' home in the Scottish Borders

Small and elegant family-run hotel with airy bedrooms, plenty of private spaces and a bus to take you to the centre of bustling Avignon

A boutique hotel on the edge of Arcachon Bay. A natural pool, zen gardens, contemporary Eastern-style interiors, and good food await

Enjoy a bucolic setting (hike, ride, cycle) near medieval Vannes, a short hop from the sea – and lively conversation with friendly hosts