A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces with a shared pool and games room, a short hop from pretty Auvillar

Wisteria, clematis and roses clamber up this pretty stone barn conversion with its own big garden surrounded by mature trees and many birds

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

Superb rural views, excellent hiking and generous bedrooms. Cristina and Alec take good care of guests - the food is delicious

In wild Jura, surrounded by fields and heather-covered hills, a secluded farmhouse with cosy rooms and sublime views of Small Isles Bay

Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views

A stroll from the village, this comfy house in its terraced garden comes with a keen-cook's kitchen, a generous terrace and pool

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

Vineyards, fruit trees and immaculate gardens, amazing food and wine, a sense of seclusion and sweeping views of the Tuscan hills

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

An achingly elegant boutique hotel set in Mallorca's olives and orchards: candlelit organic dinners, infinity pool, a smart little bar...

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

A friendly rural town pub with smart rooms, locally inspired menus and Cheshire and north Wales to explore – bring the dog too

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

Straight out of a fairy tale, a rustic cottage by a babbling brook: a magical escape for couples, the craggy coast in easy reach