Painting courses on request, gardens full of roses, a parasol’d terrace, a seductive pool… we love this welcoming, traditional hotel

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

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

A beautifully restored townhouse in the heart of Amboise, steps from Leonardo da Vinci's last home and the great Château Royal

High in the Tuscan hills, at the end of an avenue of cypresses, surrounded by parkland and acres of olives... a 13th-century dream

A charming old cottage, steeped in history and in a stunning setting, close to the Coast Path and overlooking the bustling harbour at Fowey

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

In tranquil countryside close to the Ring of Kerry, a rustic farmhouse with wonderful stargazing and brilliant walks starting from the door

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

Wood-burners, water sports and wildlife at four cosy farm conversions a half mile from their own quay. Wild swimming and barbecues await

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

Easy-going, stylish rooms, a lovely, relaxing garden with natural pool - 1hr north of Lisbon and close to some of the world’s best beaches

Exposed beams and stone walls mix with modern art and minimalism to give a warm yet uncluttered luxury. Stylish yet relaxing

Come for super ridgeway walks and explore charming towns and villages from this pretty 18th-century cottage in the Chalke Valley

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

Come for the glorious Peak District and this rural independent pub, with roots in the 12th century, serene bedrooms and toothsome food