A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

A stunning château with huge rooms, pretty balconies with views, peaceful garden. Super owners, excellent dinners - and child-friendly too

In the glorious Howardian Hills, a homely cottage with an open fire for chilly nights and a lovely, country-style kitchen filled with light

Lovely old manor house and clever garden with a relaxed, happy vibe and home-baked or homegrown treats on arrival and at breakfasts

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

The smallest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

Enjoy a bucolic setting (hike, ride, cycle) near medieval Vannes, a short hop from the sea – and lively conversation with friendly hosts

A majestic renovation of a Victorian 'model' farm with underfloor heating, open plan design, light bright lines and not a whiff of IKEA

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

In a thrilling mountain landscape made for walkers... 4 eco cottages with some of the most spectacular views in Catalunya

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

Beautiful architecture, amazing wine cellars, great food, and hosts with an infectious enthusiasm for classical music. Lovely French B&B

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

This cottage is stylish and serene, beautifully transformed from an old farm building – come for golf, beaches, walks and bird-watching

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

Enter through an impressive stone arch to discover this 16th-century fortified manor house with a gorgeous communal dining and seating area

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

A converted stable on a peaceful farm surrounded by acres of countryside - a Sawday's Community Champion