A tranquil cabin for two in rural countryside near arty Totnes: there are walks from the door and all of Devon is yours to explore

A lovely farmhouse in Lot with acres of garden and a summer kitchen. Come ‘en famille’ for food, wine and lazy days by the pool.

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

A great find if you want to be close to all the action but nicely tucked away. Friendly pub downstairs, cool bedrooms up, Soho 20 minutes

All the bleached beauty of the beach inside this comfortable cottage; a dining terrace with uplifting sea views and arching views of Kerry

Elegant 19th-century château deep in the Dordogne forest promises seclusion, serenity and an unhurried, sun-soaked escape.

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site

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

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

A restored Grade II listed flint barn with roots in the 13th century, a serene lily pond and mesmerising views over the South Downs

A stylish Sicilian farmhouse that feels like a home with hotel luxuries. Come for a generous welcome, lovely beaches and gorgeous local food

Hideaway at the bottom of the garden with a little courtyard and far-reaching views; walk to the village pub or take a day trip to Bath

A 17th-century Westmorland barn, fully renovated with a roomy living space and west-facing garden with views of High Street and Blencathra

A very generous amount of space in this beautifully restored annexe with heated pool and outstanding views over the East Devon AONB

In the heart of beautiful Siena, it's just like staying with a friend, as hostess Paola chats whilst preparing local produce for breakfast

Everything you need is here: a wood-burner for winter, a pool and spacious terraces for summer, and peace and beauty all year round