All the bleached beauty of the beach inside this comfortable cottage; a dining terrace with uplifting sea views and arching views of Kerry

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

Close to Saint-Jean-d'Angély, an elegant and spacious manor house with unfussy, comfortable interiors, bucolic views, big garden and pool

A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

A special place indeed, particularly for honeymooners and lovers. It's steeped in history & romance with delightful gardens to roam at will

Find history and splendour in bucketfuls on this huge, friendly, wooded domaine. A winning combination of modern luxury and ancient peace

Live like a local at these rustic apartments with a shared courtyard; walk to restaurants and shops, take the ferry to the beach

Come for an authentic French village experience in this old stone house next to the church with glorious countryside for walks and cycles

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

Music evenings, pop-up theatre nights and great food at the Sash brasserie. You’re just a stroll from shops and bars

The river's gentle flow sets the tone for a relaxing stay in this peaceful Loire estate: quiet rooms, sweet village, dinner with Madame

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

Come for stunning views down to the bay of La Herradura and this traditional, family-focused 1990s house on three floors

Two villas on opposite shores of a big lily-covered lake, fed with natural spring water from the Ticino river and surrounded by gardens

A striking 200-year-old coaching inn in a sleepy village with a classic, traditional pub feel, superb food and wines, pretty bedrooms