Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

Be inspired by hilltop views, unwind in beamed rooms by huge fireplaces or scramble down to the beach for family adventures

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

Former hunting lodge with a swimming pool on a 700-acre wine estate in the Valdera surrounded by vineyards and authentic villages

Two family and dog friendly retreats for lovers of the countryside, birdwatchers and those wishing to escape the crowds

Stylish apartment overlooking a vibrant market in the old city, with restaurants and historic attractions in easy walking distance

A smartly-refurbished coaching inn sitting near the river Frome run with an emphasis on fair trade, sustainability and excellent local food

Green and serene, a striking array of eco cottages on a family farm where style and comfort reign, close to the coast but far from the crowd

An 1880 farm cottage with a modern rear extension in a rural setting with outdoor space – gardens, grounds, firepit, playground

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

Built in the 1800s, a charming stone house on the Penicuik Estate with views over woodland and hills and calming, beautiful interiors

Come for a pretty 1860s house in a very fine spot, lovely gardens with views, traditional bedrooms, good food and super-friendly staff

A serene riverside retreat on the Lot, with manicured gardens and a shared pool, tennis court and children's playground for socialising

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

Location, location, location – you can't beat it, so look past the dated kitchen and bathrooms and enjoy this light, bright, coastal home

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

A traditional cottage in Polruan on the Fowey estuary with harbour and cove views and a tea shop and two pubs in the village