A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool

Cool, airy villa with Lake Como glistening below. Beautiful terraces and garden, plunge pool - and chilled prosecco and cake to welcome you

Step back in time at this wonderfully authentic château, loved deeply by its owners - 25km from Beaune and the Route des Grands Crus

This secluded New Forest inn is a magnet for families in summer: a good pint and the log fire make it a superb winter hideaway too

You'll feel at home in this immaculate yet cosy 1800s brick and pantile cottage with a pretty patio and stunning views across the Lincolnshire Wolds

A Grade II listed 1669 ex-Almshouse in a row of three in walking distance of the historic town centre of Ashbourne and the Tissington Trail

Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

Live in the lap of luxury in a 600-year-old regenerated farmhouse, enjoy fine fittings, great lighting, games, castle view and infinity pool

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

An impressive, south-facing bastide on three floors with a sunny pool, lovely garden and grounds that stretch to vineyards and garrigue

A serene riverside retreat on the Lot, with manicured gardens and a shared pool, tennis court and children's playground for socialising

Ascot is a trot down the road and there's a really cosy, cottagey feel to this quaint 18th-century inn with great food and comfy bedrooms

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door