Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

This old stone building, a former olive warehouse, is beautifully restored and sits on its own – a simple bolthole for rest and recuperation

A very special restored Augustinian monastery, sitting in the Monti Rognosi Nature Reserve and radiating a timeless charm

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

View-filled, beautifully converted and toasty warm, this old donkey shed is perfect for walkers, cyclists, peace-seekers and lovers

Guarded by high gates is a spacious oasis on the edge of the village, full of friendliness and charm, perfect for walking, cycling, markets

Tucked down a high-hedged lane on a working farm with gorgeous walks from the door and stunning views of the unspoilt Exe valley

A very special renovation of a 12th-century convent, now an elegant, tranquil place to stay with beautiful, bird-filled gardens

A much-loved Tuscan villa restored to elegance: dinner on the terrace, frescoes, rose garden, a small spa…and Florence a 20-minute drive

There’s a Tuscan feel to this lovely, family-friendly place – walk to the sound of cicadas, stargaze, visit vineyards, markets and castles

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

A warm family and starlit suppers in a grand estate by Soller, near wildflower walks and beaches. Citrus mingles with exotic fragrances

Beautifully connected, engagingly old-fashioned London pad, with a garden. Head out for Vauxhall Park, the Tate, Westminster...

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

An elegant Burgundian townhouse with pool on the fringe of Morvan National Park in Côte d'Or. Dijon, with Beaune and Chablis an easy drive

Unwind in elegant interiors and set out on long walks in beautiful countryside; Chichester and Winchester are near

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