Generous, fun house, perfect for family gatherings. Head down the hill for sandy beaches or let kids and dogs run wild on the Purbeck coast

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

A charming B&B in south Sardinia, near Cagliari: circled by palms and cypresses, overlooking sweet-smelling lemon & orange groves. Bliss

Once a hunting lodge, this unique and authentic 18th-century architectural folly sits up a quiet tree-lined drive on the edge of the estate

A Georgian townhouse full of character for an epic family and friend get-together. The best of Hay is a stroll away

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

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

In the heart of a pretty village next to a picturesque stream, your elegant B&B is a haven of peace and quiet. La Rochelle is close

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

You’ll eat well here, among locals who love the food. The village is quiet, the rooms serenely modern. A great base for a holiday en famille

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

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

Serene retreat in the French countryside with elegant interiors and impeccable hosting from the lovely Anne-Laure

Lovely stone-built dog-friendly cottages with a pool in glorious, quiet surroundings near to lakes, mountains and wide sandy beaches

An 18th-century townhouse on a quiet Arles street with a traditional feel and kind hosts - you'll be the only guests at this Provençal home

An unbelievably stunning setting for this renovated 15th-century villa with garden on a hillside overlooking the famed Florence skyline

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to