A quintessential Grade II listed thatched cottage with glorious gardens near a 13th-century church and surrounded by rolling hills

A detached 1960s house in a fabulous position with beautiful views over the mountains and plenty of space for walkers and skiers

A medieval monastery, stunningly revived, in untouristy, car-free Pisciotta. Sip greco on the terrace; scramble through olives to the sea

A grand old Georgian building with a big old welcoming atmosphere, roaring fires, delicious food, ales and wine, warm and calming bedrooms

Escape to this boutique B&B in West Sussex. Long beaches, Goodwood races, Chichester theatres, woodland walks all nearby

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

Three simple, traditional apartments in an ancient convent building with a beautiful botanical garden in the heart of the historic centre

An absolute peach of an apartment on the first floor of this iconic building with stunning views over the harbour and St Michael's Mount

Romantic cottage within 25 acres of fields, garden and orchard with fresh veg to pick, wellies for walking and animals roaming the farm

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

Chat long with gentle hosts over home-grown dinners; see stars above, walks, rivers and wildlife all around. Rustic comfort in rural Burgos

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

A bright and spacious cottage set against a backdrop of woodland for days spent happily reading by the wood-burner or lunch on the sun deck

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

Dreamy, languid beauty at this spacious, airy, arty house with garden and pool in typical Pugliese countryside

A short stroll from the centre of historic Wimborne, a big Georgian house with beautiful interiors, original features and a lovely garden

A wonderful watery setting for a super family hotel. White sands and sunsets, waddling ducks, breakfasts to relish …