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

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

A neat, recently restored townhouse inside Panicale's medieval walls with plenty of space and everything within walking distance

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

A place of peace in the hills and a view-filled base for exploring by bike or for experiencing Reiki, meditation, yoga and more

In a hamlet in the Loire countryside is a friendly estate with a family-sized gite, a shared saltwater pool and heaps of old-world charm

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

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

A sweet cottage on the estate of celebrated artist Sir Sidney Nolan's former home with 250 acres to explore - a Sawday's Community Champion

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

A Victorian farm steading cleverly repurposed as an open-plan holiday home with bright, colourful interiors, deep in the Perthshire hills

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

In a quiet, ancient country town – outdoor breakfasts and indoor style: trompe l’oeil decorations, frescoes, vaulted panelled ceilings

A beautifully restored annexe in a picturesque village in the heart of Suffolk. Take a camera - it's seriously picture-perfect around here

Ensconce yourselves in the Black Périgord and stay in the East Wing of a 16th-century castle with private garden and surrounding parkland

Once a pub, now a friendly home for relaxed gatherings of families or friends, with oodles of space, lots to do and pretty riverside walks

Three comfortable, modern apartments with private terraces, a lovely garden to wander, a pool, a vineyard and views of rolling hills

Fine linens, cool pool and a barbecue for this soothing barn renovation in a dreamy corner of Tuscany. Friendly owners can cook on request