Former blacksmith’s workshop in a chocolate-box corner of the New Forest, where clematis climbs the trellis and all you hear are the birds

Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views

Wildflower beds, 1,350 acres to roam, and all of Norfolk to discover. Then it’s back to 4 chic boltholes with pool, steam room and jacuzzi

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

Historic, indulgent, atmospheric – and the Contessa is so warm. Vineyards, restaurants, operas, walks...La dolce vita on Slovenia's border

Portuguese elegance, artistic décor, breakfast on a fountain'd patio or by the fire: a treat. Step out to a kaleidoscope of Lisbon city life

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

A handsome house with breath-taking mountain views: perfect for summer holidays and walking in spring and autumn

A perfect spot with views of hills, forest and vines, below the beautiful village of Castelnau de Montmiral. Walks, wildlife, wine tours...

Glorious airy living space in this superbly restored barn, a terrace with long views and a pool across the garden - bikes to borrow too

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

The village is tiny, the bar is lively, the food is delicious. The Cotswolds are at your feet and you’re encouraged not to lift a finger

A lovely farmhouse in Lot with acres of garden and a summer kitchen. Come ‘en famille’ for food, wine and lazy days by the pool.

Come for the gloriously peaceful countryside and this 1700s house and garden, scrupulously renovated and with plenty of space

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

Nestled next to the main house, this feels part cottage and part townhouse, making a cosy retreat just a couple of miles from the coast