5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

Stay in the very first holiday let in the history of this lovely little hamlet of nine houses, with a superb sailing club and a decent pub

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

Two spruce spaces for couples in peaceful Cornish countryside; it’s an easy drive to gardens, both coastlines and good eateries

A rustic haven in Vouvray wine country: bask on sun beds near the elegant pool, cosy up to the wood-burner, relax in your beautiful bedroom

A relaxed old countryside manor house with a huge garden to roam. It’s 2km to sandy beaches and Judith is close by if you need anything

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

Filled with interesting finds, antiques and artefacts, this is a charming cabin hideaway for couples on the banks of the Kingsbridge Ria

A wonderful country house, a unique wine story, very luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, infinity pool and restaurant

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods and meadows to wander and stunning views of The Black Mountains

Restored stone barn in 22 acres filled with special wildlife, on the edge of Radnor Forest, with walking trails, glorious countryside views

A family-run, environmentally friendly bistro with rooms near Grasmere: climb to the nearest viewing spot. Dogs welcome too

You get the best of all worlds here. Delicious beds, Provençal soaps, vineyard views, fresh croissants a stroll away…

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

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

Beautiful views over Bantry Bay from this thoughtfully restored house with stylish rooms, gardens and woodland – a wonderful escape

Come to a gorgeous bolthole, just for two, in a sleepy riverside village with the delights of the Corrèze at your feet