Quirky lights and vintage 60s pieces add character to an immaculate home bathed in light and serenity - launch pad for stylish temptations

Charming cottage in a vast garden with a swimming pool and boule; walk to the nearest village, drive to Côte d'Azur in less than an hour

A lovely old stone house with a covered veranda and sparkling pool in a small hilltop hamlet overlooking a lush forested valley

A very grand façade for this handsome Charente village house with a beautiful, peaceful garden, creamy stone walls and olive trees

Lovely stone-built dog-friendly cottages with a pool in glorious, quiet surroundings near to lakes, mountains and wide sandy beaches

Beautifully restored historical building in the heart of Vichy with a fabulous pool and spa, just steps away from the famous Opera House

Pops of colour and neon signs bring fun to this smart and warm family home near Brancaster beach

On the edge of the South Downs, this smartly renovated pub with contemporary rooms serves seasonal home cooked food and a warm welcome

A stylish mountain chalet under the watchful gaze of Mont Blanc, with a private chef, hot tub and sauna

An enchanting escape immersed in nature yet only 40 minutes by train into the Eternal City for art and history-filled days

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

An interesting historic townhouse filled with art and antiques, in the old part of Amantea, near shops, restaurants and beach

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Wrapped in fields and woods, this big traditional house has crisply furnished interiors and plenty of gadgets. Terraced gardens and pool too

Beauty, charm and tranquillity an hour from Florence, on a bio-sensitive farm known for Chianina cattle and white truffles

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

Dreamy, divine and close to Borghetto, a romantic escape for nature lovers, city folk... with swans, geese, herons and frog chorus

Live like a local. Art lovers, book lovers and walkers will be happy here above an art gallery in the centre of town