Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

A serene retreat in a residential area of Ragusa, with the historic centre just a short distance. Enjoy pool, spa and gardens

Secluded stone farmhouse, fragrant gardens, a natural pool, and winding forest paths – the perfect off-grid Tuscan escape

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

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

Good restaurants, beach walks, a grand welcome for dogs: that’s Whitstable. Bring friends and stay in this smart house close to it all

A flamboyant place! You're in the heart of this charming market town, just a hop from the river and a stroll from pretty squares and bistros

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

A beautifully restored listed barn of Westmorland stone sitting in a conservation area village in spectacular walking country, near Appleby

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate

In the heart of a starlight reserve in a protected natural park, three authentic cottages with walks from the door for immersion in nature

Achingly trendy, a design-lover's dream with infinity pool, wine on the terrace, pampering spa and a sunny bay at your feet – stunning

Great gulps of ozone will engulf you at this architect-designed 1960s beach house - light, bright and sparkling, just like the ocean

Come for sublime Highland scenery, birds and wildlife, long walks and complete peace and tranquillity

Gloriously cool in summer, cosy in winter, a 365-day-a-year retreat. Just a 10-minute promenade along the beach into the fun heart of town

A stone built 18th-century tower in a pretty valley dotted with fruit trees for quiet and relaxed days recuperating from life in the city

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining