Wander down a pebble path to this large, light holiday home near La Rochelle. Eco-friendly, accessible to all, and perfectly peaceful

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

A smartly refurbished 500-year-old coaching inn with very comfortable bedrooms, good food and the Peak District at your feet

Tradition and comfort on the border with Wales, a welcoming country-house hotel with warm rooms, pretty gardens and delicious food

A summer hideaway by a lively Algarvian village with a pretty garden. Sundowners, a pool, massages, a BBQ and traditional bedrooms

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

Take breakfast on the terrace, splash in the fabulous pool. A secluded, friendly, immaculate villa close to golf and surfing beaches

Characterful mansion in west Wales set in 10 acres of greenery with a lake; glorious beaches and good restaurants are a short drive away

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

Vast house on an ancient Roman site with big terraced garden and pool. Grand yet homely, with air-con, spa and only 8 km to the city

An old farmhouse in a hilltop town deep in wine country, with a charming owner intent on ensuring you make the most of your stay

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

Chichester, blessed with a stunning natural setting, is great for a city break - and this Georgian coach house the perfect bolthole for 2

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

A three storey house and garden with sea glimpses in the 'vieux village' named for the Mimosa trees which flower in profusion in winter

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners