A lovely 300-year-old cottage with a tiny walled courtyard garden in a village with a good pub. You can see Dartmoor from the windows

A lovely old stone house, set in a walled garden and overlooking the swimming pool on an ancient estate with gardens open to the public

A bright and prettily beamed barn with very comfortable interiors, private outdoor seating and a shared courtyard for barbecues and games

Three family friendly cottages on this gorgeous eco farm with private gardens and organised outdoor activities if you like joining in

A former tobacco barn and an annexe with outdoor kitchen and courtyard, near good places to eat for relaxed days at the beach

A delightful hostess and gem of a village home, from grand piano to organic potager and pool. Market-fresh meals pair with Beaujolais wines

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

In a quiet, ancient country town – outdoor breakfasts and indoor style: trompe l’oeil decorations, frescoes, vaulted panelled ceilings

Stay in the wilds of south Cork, where new life is being breathed into a much-loved family home and you can simply join in

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

Friendly touches everywhere, terrific food and drink, smart bedrooms above the sparkling bar – dogs and children welcome

An elegant French château brimming with antiques and surrounded by landscaped lawns. Enjoy convivial dinners with the perfect host

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

Take the road less travelled as you climb into the Welsh hills to discover this lovely 16th-century farmhouse full of family history

Soak up Provençal peace in a charming estate in the Alpilles, with stylish ground-floor B&B rooms, olives, vines and a friendly family dog

Three immaculate rooms in a 17th-century building; step out onto winding streets lined with trattorias, boutiques, fountains and monuments

Within the city walls and right next to the Minster, this super-smart hotel gives you gorgeous bedrooms and delicious food

A cottage for two on a wonderfully eco wine school and vineyard. Gaze at magnificent views from your terrace