A stunning veranda wraps itself around the house: doze off in a wicker armchair or sip a drink at dusk as the sun melts into the valley

A very special farmhouse in a peaceful valley for memorable get-togethers with friends or family, just 20 minutes from the Jurassic Coast

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

A row of old brick stables now craftily converted into a light-filled and very peaceful place to stay with a garden room and gorgeous views

An exquisite Provençal home for a large party, hidden behind grand gates in a small village surrounded by the pine-scented Alpilles

Lots of space and much to do for families and friends: it’s a short walk to Lee Bay, the coastal path or the village pub

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

Treat yourselves to some downtime at this lush, semi-tropical hideaway with big pool, delicious breakfasts and charmingly rustic bedrooms

Explore from this picturesque village; hike, cycle or ride through beautiful nature. Lay your head in creative, comfortable rooms

A cosy, courteous, family-run hotel with ‘chocolatines’ and cherry jams at breakfast, Basque dishes at dinner, and gorgeous rolling views

This architect-designed passive style house sits just behind the sand dunes at Waxham beach, one of Norfolk’s most lovely beaches

Steps from the sea in get-away-from-it-all scenery – half an hour’s walk from St Ives’ arty heart. Sleeps 4 with pull-out beds for 2 more

High in the heavenly hills is this very smartly converted farm building, with underfloor heating, much glass, wood and exposed brickwork

Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

A thatched farmhouse only just over the channel near Rouen that’s well hidden in lush gardens, but worth finding for the gourmet food alone

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

A warm, inviting boutique hotel in Shrewsbury’s historic centre; potter about the medieval streets, relax in a sun-catching courtyard