A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near

Moments from Chamonix, a sweet chalet with pretty gardens in sun or snow under a backdrop of Mont Blanc – perfect for the adventurous

Anglo-Irish meets Italian and Indian; the owners have peppered this charming home with furniture and artefacts from their broad travels

Spacious house with a big garden, a swimming pool and all home comforts; the beach and good restaurants are less than 10 minutes away

Hideaway in the hills complete with private pool and outdoor kitchen. Spend days hiking or on a sun lounger - perfect for families

Come for breezy bedrooms, pretty gardens, a serene pool and delicious breakfasts at this gorgeous finca in rural Extremadura near Trujillo

Luxurious living combines with bleating sheep and bells from the church next door - 4 fabulous retreats on the Cotentin Peninsula

A 15th-century hotel and spa with beamed lounges and two restaurants, standing proudly on the high street

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep

Bring boots, maps, your dog and an appetite for high places and deep comfort in this restored farm conversion

A spacious courtyard, two ancient yews and this lovely restored house ooze charm - swim, cycle, walk in glorious countryside, taste cognac

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

A perfectly restored medieval borgo on twin Chianti hilltops, with lavender fields, honey bees and clear views to the Apennines

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

In the middle of the National Park and surrounded by the Coquet Hills, come for dark skies, fabulous walking and a very comfortable cottage

An attractive, sympathetic barn conversion, full of light, pleasingly uncluttered and hidden down a lane in stunningly beautiful countryside

Chill under poolside palm trees or lose yourself in novels on super comfy armchairs. Funchal with its colourful markets is within easy reach

A beautiful rural escape for couples or families with the delights of the Cotswolds all around. Dogs very welcome too