An oast house B&B surrounded by countryside and with a blooming garden; walk to the village pub, drive to nearby stately castles

Perched in gorgeous gardens and with stunning views, this 18th-century presbytery has lovely rooms and an excellent gourmet restaurant

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

An 18th-century chapel in the heart of the village with stone mullioned windows, bakery, wine shop and art gallery – a bustling hub

An elegant French château brimming with antiques and surrounded by landscaped lawns. Enjoy convivial dinners with the perfect host

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

A romantic cottage for two in the Pentland Hills, with views for miles and your own private garden with a wood-fired hot tub

5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

Thoughtful red brick barn conversion on a working farm. Peaceful, practical and within easy reach of outdoor activities

In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

A super upside-down house perched on a cliff in bustling Saundersfoot with glorious views over the beach and the Atlantic

An ancient farmstead in the Lombard style with up-to-date B&B rooms plus a garden, lake and museum all surrounded by quiet countryside

A smart riverside inn with airy interiors that brim with character – old beams, open fires, well-kept ales and comfy bedrooms

Swim in the pool overlooking vineyards, try the wines and oil made onsite, get cosy by log fires or head to the nearby beach

Gather your loved ones and come for colourful, exuberant interiors, an absolutely gorgeous covered veranda and a pool with moveable floor

Ensconce yourselves in the Black Périgord and stay in the East Wing of a 16th-century castle with private garden and surrounding parkland

A sweet retreat for a nature-loving couple, with soul-searching views and the smell of the sea. Logs and Breton cider are on the house...

This fine old Dordogne house is run by well-travelled owners, has superb views and is a luscious mix of old charm and contemporary design