Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

A townhouse with a walled garden by the church in a peaceful village where friendly Scottish owners feed and look after you well

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

A contemporary house with fabulous views in a quiet setting just steps away from the beach, shops and restaurants - the best of Galicia

Small and elegant family-run hotel with airy bedrooms, plenty of private spaces and a bus to take you to the centre of bustling Avignon

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

Another bright, beamed and history-filled place to stay on the smart Upton Cressett estate with walks from the door and much comfort within

Light-and-colour filled cottage with gardens and sea views on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, a short stroll from Chesil Beach

A converted chapel - cosy and creative - right on the beach. Wander the Cornish coast, explore small towns and retreat from the everyday

Lodge and gardens – superbly designed, immaculate, fresh, eco friendly – rest in unspoilt Picardy. Anglo-French hosts take turns to cook

Three comfortable stone houses clustered around the owners' home. Glorious views spread out below you across rolling countryside

A charming comfy cottage with wood burner, delicious hilly views, walks radiating from the door. We didn’t want to leave!

Four family-friendly self-catering casitas and an original cortijo in wildlife-rich acres near the sandy Costa de la Luz

Slow down! Swim, soak in the jacuzzi, taste Campanian cuisine and wine, explore the national park, pop to Agropoli's beaches... be pampered

A swish and very generous eco barn with a wood-fired hot tub and a view-filled deck close to fabulous walking in the Dales or the Lakes