A stately retreat, an oasis of calm and beauty. Picnic on the lawns, enjoy a glass of home-produced prosecco beneath a centuries-old tree

On its own wooded estate, a special manor house of character. Art on the walls, maps and wellies to borrow, gardens to romp in, super views

In the heart of a starlight reserve in a protected natural park, three authentic cottages with walks from the door for immersion in nature

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

A beautifully renovated getaway set in glorious countryside near the Lakes. Strike out on walks from the door, relax in the woodland garden

A very tranquil spot with views of rolling countryside, the East Mendip Way on the doorstep and good pubs within walking distance

Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

A beautifully renovated apartment in a quiet street in central Bordeaux, with fine old features and all modernities. Ideal for couples

In a sleepy village near Oxford, a characterful 17th-century inn with contemporary flair, seasonal menus and a terrace for summer music

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

Enter through an impressive stone arch to discover this 16th-century fortified manor house with a gorgeous communal dining and seating area

You’ll feel nicely independent in this spacious open-plan hideaway surrounded by colourful gardens and Corscombe valley views

Location, location, location - you can't beat it, so look past the dated kitchen and bathrooms and enjoy this light, bright, coastal home

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Comfortable, understated, spotless and authentic – a modest family hideaway on Brittany’s stunning Crozon Peninsula (think Land’s End...)

Immaculate apartments with private patios and well-equipped kitchens share oleander-bright gardens and a chlorine-free pool