A thoughtful conversion of an old farm barn with beautifully-beamed interiors - a flawless, rural escape for romantics and dreamers

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top

A super old place for those who love history and Thomas Hardy. Come for enjoyable gastropub food and comfortable, traditional bedrooms

Manor house in the grounds of a quintessential 18th-century French château with pretty gardens and lots of space just 3kms from Bayeux

Saint Emilion and Castillon both a hop away from a warm, wonderful barn with owners to match. Stylish, cosy and deep in organic vines

A striking modern villa tucked away off a small road above the Serchio valley with sparkling pool, gardens and Apuan mountain views

The privacy of a big terraced garden, a small decked pool and attractive, clutter-free rooms - close to harbour town bustle and restaurants

On the doorstop, Dovedale, Buxton, Chatsworth House... Come home to snooker, books, logs, a patio with views and masses of lovely space

A smartly renovated village pub with rooms welcoming locals, visitors, families and dogs on a Staffordshire country estate

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Spend restful days in a verdant garden, slip into the cooling pool, sip wine on your private balcony, stroll into arty Benissa

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

An elegant 18th-century manor in the market town of Malesherbes, sitting behind its own walls and with mature gardens for a peaceful retreat

Perfect for families - a glorious farmhouse surrounded by lavender fields. Rooms are huge and children can roam free in the vast gardens

What a surprise to find a masseria in the heart of a Puglian village. Welcome to Anna’s elegant agriturismo

The views are green, both cottages are homely and comfortable and the gardens have direct access to the riverbank footpath for walks