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

A lovely gîte with cool lines and its own shady terrace plus pool, gardens, fountain and a relaxed family-friendly feel

A warm and colourful B&B with generous owners, elegant bedrooms and an outdoor pool, in the heart of a pretty town near Toulouse

Set loose your inner castaway on your very own island with enthralling views and much wildlife a short boat ride from Skye

Small and elegant family-run hotel with airy bedrooms, plenty of private spaces and a bus to take you to the centre of bustling Avignon

In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

Sweet Grade II listed fisherman's terrace cottage for 4 (+ 1) close to the centre of bustling St Ives; a place to escape to year-round

A fortified castle in parkland, built mostly in the 1300s on the Montbazens plateau, near to the stunning Averyon gorges

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

A lovely house set in 20 hectares with a park, two ponds, paths winding through and a pretty river. Delicious locally-sourced meals too

A bright, colourful lodge, part of an 18th-century abbey with a private garden, swimming pool, books, games and a cosy fire

An elegant solution to a hotel - no rooms, but 13 charming villas in the heart of the maquis, nearly all with a private pool

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

A beautiful rural escape for couples or families with the delights of the Cotswolds all around. Dogs very welcome too

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Part of the original Wensleydale creamery overlooking the river, with bustling Hawes and great walking country right on your doorstep

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera