At the foot of the Cambrian Mountains, an ancient whitewashed cottage with cosy, light-flooded interiors – a perfect rural bolthole for two

Gently undulating countryside surrounds you at this Burgundy B&B with fresh, modern bedrooms and delicious dinners prepared by the owner

Pluck grapes, splash in the child-shallow pool and explore the ‘Yorkshire of Italy’ with rolling green hills and conical trulli

A rustic haven in Vouvray wine country: bask on sun beds near the elegant pool, cosy up to the wood-burner, relax in your beautiful bedroom

Homely furnishings and 17th-century charm at this estate on the Severn, whose owners are mad about horses and give you fine home produce

A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

Submerge yourself in a magical landscape of sky, water and hills from this well-thought-out retreat, where silence reigns and peace is deep

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

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Modern comforts, traditional cosiness and a warm welcome. There are walks from the door, country houses to visit and a pub in the village

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Garden and mountain views from this pretty villa for two - Lake Como shimmers below. Pick up morning pastries in picturesque Mezzegra

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

Artists, poets, nature lovers, walkers and dreamers will be happy in this simple, airy suite surrounded by a fecund garden and much peace

Sustainably built Suffolk retreat with plenty of space for friends and family to properly unwind (a steam room seals the deal)

Come for peace, space and much comfort in this nifty house with gorgeous views over acres of vines from the terrace and pool

A stylish mountain chalet under the watchful gaze of Mont Blanc, with a private chef, hot tub and sauna