Fabulous bakes and hot waffles at breakfast, green fields all around and Normandy steeped in history. Great for foodies and historians

Two homely gîtes sleeping 4 and 2 in rural farm country. Walk to the bakery; drive 15 minutes to Saint-Malo and riverside restaurants

Rural retreat, far from the madding crowd. Laze by the infinity pool and take in the views. Inside all is calm and stylish. Stay a while

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site

A small, charming house with ravishing sea views within walking distance of a bohemian coastal village at the foot of the Teix mountain

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

Guests love the Henley - it’s nicely informal, and cute rooms, big views, and Martyn’s lovely food all hit the spot. Breakfast included too

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

A rare treat to stay in this lovely stone farmhouse in the Durham Dales with acres of private farmland and magical interiors by Rita Konig

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

A welcoming retreat with lofty rooms, a sunny garden and the perfect plunge pool. Come for slow days and wine country adventures

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit

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

Chill under poolside palm trees or lose yourself in novels on super comfy armchairs. Funchal with its colourful markets is within easy reach

Stay just two kilometres from Siena's medieval gates with views over vineyards, lovely interiors, good food and pleasant gardens

A beautifully converted building, part of an old mill, now a gorgeous place to stay with the stream running through and shared parkland