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

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

Gorgeous rooms and splendid breakfasts – for sybarites, history-lovers, cyclists and canoeists - bang in the middle of ancient Long Melford

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

An award-winning dog-friendly pub with rooms. Find happy staff, delicious well-sourced food and comfy rooms – great for walkers

Special back-to-nature, stargazing loft for couples and families, on a nature-filled estate in Piedmont

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

A smooth, contemporary space with far-reaching views, plenty of light and high ceilings for nature lovers, walkers, artists and dreamers

Once a pub, now a friendly home, with all you need for a market town break. Park the car (or leave at home) – everything is on the doorstep

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

A stone building designed by Sir John Soane in the stable yard of this historic and beautiful estate with deer park and woodland gardens

Gaze on Umbrian hills as the children play, watch the fireflies dance at night. Dine fabulously in Gubbio - or here. Sociable-family bliss

An absolutely charming former cart shed, with a magnificent view of the moated château and the park, with private sauna and shared pool

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea