A big, comfortable house with heated outdoor pool in 17 acres of gardens. Mountains, river swimming, hiking nearby; coast within the hour

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

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

Three simple, traditional apartments in an ancient convent building with a beautiful botanical garden in the heart of the historic centre

A private villa beautifully flanked by gardens bursting with fruit. Here you'll find real Spanish character, style and a sun-trap terrace

You're only a whisper away from history in this family-run château, where rose gardens, sumptuous bedrooms and generous breakfasts wait

A grand spot with superb Peak District views for this secluded, immaculate conversion of a handsome stable block - spacious and light

A charming renovated stone gîte only 15km from Bergerac with a large outdoor pool, pretty gardens and walks and cycle rides from the door

A stylish retreat in the heart of St Ives offering a glimpse of the sea – with an extra double sofabed room for friends or children

Great design along with much comfort and warmth an hour from Inverness airport, but a world away from the city and with stunning views

Warmth and comfort on the Pink Granite Coast where the wind and waves lull you to sleep, and bedrooms overlook the cedars or the sea

A bright and spacious cottage set against a backdrop of woodland for days spent happily reading by the wood-burner or lunch on the sun deck

Immerse yourself in sentiment and romance at Valeria’s charming Veronese villa. The walls sing with framed opera programmes and music scores

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

A thatched farmhouse only just over the channel near Rouen that’s well hidden in lush gardens, but worth finding for the gourmet food alone

Hike the Wild Boar Fells, get cosy at home with books, games and DVDs, and meet the farm’s hens, cows and sheep

Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe