Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

A wonderful surprise inside this 1590 house sitting in a beautiful walled garden full of fruit trees, just off the High Street

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

Steam in the hot tub, gaze over crashing waves or later stars. Inside is swish, kids play in their games room, dinner is in view of the sea

A pretty upside-down cottage, formerly a dovecote, lovingly restored with sustainability the focus

In the gardens of a laid-back country house, a barn with books, games, faded rugs and a grand piano – a treat for convivial families

If houses could smile, this 1850 townhouse would be beaming - grand for groups, with four terraces, two living rooms and a plunge pool

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit

A marvellous spot overlooking Rutland Water for this 1760 former hunting lodge with good seasonal British food and very comfortable bedrooms

Loved by estate-workers, visitors, well-heeled locals, and walkers, this spruced-up pub is a friendly launchpad for Chatsworth

You're beautifully looked after in this gorgeous Tuscan house. Come for Alpine walks, historic trails and wild nature all around

A small, charming house with ravishing sea views within walking distance of a bohemian coastal village at the foot of the Teix mountain

A cosy bolthole near Paris's best museums, monuments and churches. A peaceful sleep and simple buffet breakfast set you up for sightseeing

What a surprise! Tucked into a row of tightly woven old cottages is this contemporary open-plan hideaway with huge windows and much flair

A lovely villa in the Sóller valley close to stunning beaches, secret coves and a dramatic mountain range. Mallorca never fails to seduce

Friendly hosts, good food and clever design in this house looking over Kilmartin Glen. Slow down, watch the sunrise and marvel at the peace

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside