A gem of a house in a lovely unspoilt village with an intelligent, interesting owner who gives you delicious food and local wines

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Two restored mill buildings in the serene French countryside, with river views and artful interiors – a peaceful self-catering escape

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Nature lovers will be tempted to this gem of a village cottage in the Duddon Valley – a truly peaceful slice of the Lakes

An attractive, sympathetic barn conversion, full of light, pleasingly uncluttered and hidden down a lane in stunningly beautiful countryside

An 18th-century watermill with millrace and pond, now a smart B&B with a swimming pool and pretty gardens, run by charming English hosts

Up in the Cévennes, this big, beautiful family house has superb views, a fine kitchen, lots of space and masses to do and see

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers

Families can unwind at this lovely old higgledy-piggledy farmhouse in typical southern Algarve style, with a big pool and lush greenery

A charming comfy cottage with wood burner, delicious hilly views, walks radiating from the door. We didn’t want to leave!

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

A delightful coastal cottage with far-reaching ocean views from almost every room, two gardens and a short hop to beach and Coast Path

Fresh, inviting bedrooms with leafy garden views and a pretty church next door. Moffat's spectacular Grey Mare's Tail waterfall nearby

Weaving medieval magic, this dreamy hideaway is an ideal base for nature-loving gourmands to explore the region

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

Provençale-meets-English country house to great effect – cycle Mont Ventoux, walk to the monastery, visit Roman towns and vineyards