A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

Minutes from old Ajaccio (a scenic cycle ride) is a charming small hotel with a stunning bay setting, and majestic mountains behind

A handsome old country manor house in the heart of the Loire castles surrounded by parkland, forests, lakes, small hamlets, vineyards and châteaux

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Ideal for families: pool, tennis and golf at the hotel with beach and yachting nearby. Comfortable bedrooms and a terrace for outdoor dining

An enchanting escape immersed in nature yet only 40 minutes by train into the Eternal City for art and history-filled days

A light, bright, art-filled space with private garden on a quiet residential street just a short walk from shops, markets and good food

Once a lofty edifice for music recitals, now an original place to stay - with stained-glass windows, a bed on a stage and wild gardens

Genuine hosts, fabulous food, a swimming pool and a private speedboat for exploring the coast; a sandy beach is a ten-minute walk away

An 18th-century cottage for four on a working sheep farm: walk the Pentland Hills, get the bus to Edinburgh for culture

Three family friendly gites with a contemporary feel, a saltwater pool, national trails to wander and wellness retreats on offer

All you'd hope for, and more! Enormous rooms, marvellous beams, majestic views and wines from their vineyard

A stately retreat, an oasis of calm and beauty. Picnic on the lawns, enjoy a glass of home-produced prosecco beneath a centuries-old tree

Feather pillows, welcome goodies, an extensive batterie de cuisine... the hosts are super generous, the views are to die for

An old sporting lodge in Argyll renovated with sensitivity – fish in the river, gaze at the night skies, climb Ben Udlaidh

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

A peaceful, very stylish bolthole for 2 on the doorstep of glorious Holyrood Park, with Edinburgh’s sights a stroll away