A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

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

Unwind in glorious Northumberland with beaches, proper dunes, ancient castles and two cosy cottages with open fires, sea views and gardens

Five tranquil apartments surrounded by Tuscan countryside just over half an hour's drive from Siena - hire them all for a group holiday

Gaze over sublime vistas, refresh in the plunge pool, cook up a barbecue treat. A Provençal studio, simply furnished and deeply relaxing

A quirky hotel with enthusiastic owners in an authentic Andalucian town, just ten minutes up winding roads from Marbella

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Stay in the grounds of a 19th-century château turned family home, where 500-year-old oak trees shade a glorious garden

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

A taste of old Italy in this off-the-beaten-track rustic house on three levels, exquisitely restored and with elegant designer furnishings

For families and friends, foodies, surfers and lovers of southern Spain’s historic, vibrant Costa de la Luz

A peaceful, harmonious house with roots in the 14th century, a glorious enclosed pool area and a huge amount of space for happy gatherings

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

Come for excellent food, warm interiors and nicely priced rooms in this light old Rectory with a pretty terrace for summer drinks

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

Glorious views of Derwentwater and Skiddaw from this comfortable house. Art dotted about, a big table for chatty meals and a pretty garden

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes