An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

Come for authentic restoration, chic Savoyard décor, breathtaking views of the Portes du Soleil, and a chairlift a 7-minute drive

This is Somerset at its most quintessential: a thatched roofed, honey-coloured Hamstone cottage with a pretty courtyard garden; sleeps four

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

A sweet cottage on the estate of celebrated artist Sir Sidney Nolan's former home with 250 acres to explore - a Sawday's Community Champion

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

A converted barn for two, serenely comfortable and effortlessly stylish, near to North Devon's beaches and the wild beauty of Exmoor

Sumptuous suites arranged around a sunny internal courtyard inside an ancient monastery - an intimate sanctuary for those who seek comfort

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

A gem of a house in a lovely unspoilt village with an intelligent, interesting owner who gives you delicious food and local wines

A unique 1900 house and garden on the edge of Lyon, steeped in history and authenticity – a beautiful home with museum-quality objects

A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

Friendly host, Georgian elegance, welcoming sitting room and bedrooms, tasty breakfasts: the perfect city break in Scotland’s capital

A birdwatchers’ paradise in heavenly valley setting with friendly hosts and delicious seasonal cooking. Explore national park from the door

A lovely modern Provençal house, light and welcoming, in a valley of vineyards and forest, tucked peacefully away from the coast

Set off on blissful walks, trek home to crumpets and tea. There’s no better place to escape the 21st century than rural Devon