Steps from the sea in get-away-from-it-all scenery – half an hour’s walk from St Ives’ arty heart. Sleeps 4 with pull-out beds for 2 more

Come for pristine beaches, long walks to Barbate, sea views, whale watching trips and serene suites

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

A lovely old 19th-century inn by the sea with hand-pumped ales, fresh local and seasonal food and spoiling bedrooms, some with sea views

A beautiful house with Pyrenean views, generous hosts and wonderful hiking, biking and skiing nearby. A rare pearl

Historic pub with immaculate new bedrooms and a happy atmosphere. A waterside terrace for summer, blazing open fires for winter

Dorset unfurls all around you: walk the coast path, hunt for fossils, gaze at Durdle Door, explore Weymouth from this sea-facing pub

Within the city walls and right next to the Minster, this super-smart hotel gives you gorgeous bedrooms and delicious food

An artistic escape with a stunning kitchen in sleepy, gastronomic Lot – stroll to the village market and feast on local produce

Stay in a celebrated French author’s holiday home, beautifully restored and tucked among pines next to one of Brittany's loveliest bays

A unique 1900 house and garden on the edge of Lyon, steeped in history and authenticity – a beautiful home with museum-quality objects

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

A light, bright, art-filled space with private garden on a quiet residential street just a short walk from shops, markets and good food

A smart village local with original timber frames, a lively bar, elegant rooms and delicious food from the fields around you

An 18th-century converted barn with lofty beamed ceilings, exposed stonework, handmade oak windows and much art – pretty garden too

Pippa tells you where to find wild flowers, babbling brooks and butterflies... and hike, bike and swim. Magic for families

Genuine hosts, fabulous food, a swimming pool and a private speedboat for exploring the coast; a sandy beach is a ten-minute walk away

A great little place, hugely popular, with stylish bedrooms, lovely food, happy staff and a winning position on the river Wyre