A lovely 300-year-old cottage with a tiny walled courtyard garden in a village with a good pub. You can see Dartmoor from the windows

Smart country inn in Constable country with lovely rooms and food - grab a picnic, hire a boat and drift along the river Stour

This shuttered, stone maison in Gascony on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrims' route is a joy for families to spend time together

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

An old farmhouse in a hilltop town deep in wine country, with a charming owner intent on ensuring you make the most of your stay

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

One of 2 tranquil retreats, near the river Solva. Fall asleep to the stream, wake to the birds, dine out on the little patio

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

Simple country cottage living on a working organic farm. Bring your hiking boots or bikes, stride out from the door

Come to the wild Cévennes to hike, ride, kayak down the Hérault river – or just revel in your pretty, generous house, pool and garden space

Welcoming B&B or a whole house to yourselves; an ancient building with modern interiors, a lap pool and peaceful countryside views

Lovely slice of the Mediterranean with splendid rooms in deepest Cheshire. Sip an aperitif on the sunny terrace

The views take your breath away, the breakfasts are beautiful, and you feel like you're staying in the home of dear friends

Your own bolthole near Helmsley on the edge of North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Breakfast delivered, walks and cycle rides from the door

A celebration of all things Somerset in a thatched village opposite the church and close to National Trust Barrington Court and Gardens

A large handsome 1800s manor, now a peaceful haven for free-range families and creative types on the edge of vibrant Richelieu in the Loire

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes