Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

A handsome old country manor house in the heart of the Loire castles surrounded by parkland, forests, lakes, small hamlets, vineyards and châteaux

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

In the heart of arts and craft town Chipping Campden, a beautifully decorated 17th-century house with a celebrated restaurant downstairs

Historic 19th-century maison de maître, perfect for a gathering of friends, within walking distance of the old town’s charms

A serene retreat basking above the Algarve with sea views from the garden and pool, and charming Moorish details

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

Designed with style and comfort, peaceful, sophisticated and serene with countryside views. And you have your own lovely pool

Simple, stylish interiors at this restored cottage on a rural estate overlooking the river Tay, with farmland, forest and trails to discover

Superb, all-organic agriturismo built of straw bales and offering wonderful home-grown natural food, a delightful family, great walking

Kate makes you feel at home the moment you enter her great big beloved house - full of books, guitars and a piano, antiques and huge spaces

A stunning setting in acres of citrus groves for this lovely old farm with 16th-century roots, a big pool, hammocks and a restaurant

Come to this cosy barn down a winding lane for a back-to-nature escape: hike the Black Mountains, splash in the stream, gaze at the views

A great spot for two plus two, with a decked area that gazes on copses, stream and treehouse. Wallow your cares away in the hot tub

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

A very peaceful, family-run hotel on the shores of Lake Garda with rose and jasmine-scented gardens for summer dinners by candlelight

A luxurious springboard for the wineries, villages and treasures of south Tuscany in the magical Orcia valley - if you can bear to leave it!

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