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

One of England's oldest coaching inns, full of history and wonky floors, on a Surrey market town's high street

Provençal charm floats through the ground floor of this 18th-century home in a vineyard near Lorgues. Walk, cycle, swim, enjoy the peace

A beautiful little house in a corner of the garden: walk for miles or just to the local pub, barbecue on the deck with its rural views

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely

Lively renovation for this 18th-century cottage built of local stone and with a large garden in Modbury. Totnes and sandy beaches are close

Families will adore coming here, to reconnect through wonderful outdoor activities in glorious countryside and to feel cossetted indoors

A glamourous escape in central Nice. Creative art-filled interiors, a fabulous tropical garden, sumptuous buffet breakfasts, pool and spa

Large, unpretentious and very comfortable family house in splendid isolation with swimming pool, tennis court and well-tended gardens

An exceptional villa with four acres of private gardens, high in the mountains and with stunning views over Lake Como - the perfect oasis

Rambling casitas in a mountain hamlet, with a rustic bar, big shared pool and golf course, surrounded by birds, bougainvillea and views

A 300-year-old cottage and a secluded, magical setting next to the longest sea loch in the UK, for walkers, dreamers and nature lovers

Tranquillity and comfort in a guesthouse in the Marche countryside - airy rooms for couples with huge windows onto good views

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Peaceful, traditional country house just 2 miles from central Dorking. Relaxed hosts, good food, beautiful gardens, walks galore - a retreat

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

A beautifully restored building in a vast, open space dotted with olive trees and fragrant citrus - unwind in the calming atmosphere