Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

A grand old chartreuse, dating from 1649, with terrace, garden and pool surrounded by tranquil countryside and near a pretty village

Starry skies, wild beauty and total peace are yours in these sustainable, solar-powered eco-lodges

An ancient farmhouse transformed into a peaceful place to stay with lovely gardens, a swimming pool and delicious organic food

White-painted beams, wonky white walls and your own parking spot fairly nearby. You're near the harbour and subtropical gardens

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool

A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces with a shared pool and games room, a short hop from pretty Auvillar

A stylish mountain chalet under the watchful gaze of Mont Blanc, with a private chef, hot tub and sauna

A stylish timber frame eco build, clad with recycled steel and with an upstairs living space to make the most of the glorious sunsets

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

Come for the gloriously peaceful countryside and this 1700s house and garden, scrupulously renovated and with plenty of space

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

Charming cottage surrounded by acres of wildflower meadows: drive to Newport in 15 minutes, walk the Pembrokeshire coastline

Ideal for families: pool, tennis and golf at the hotel with beach and yachting nearby. Comfortable bedrooms and a terrace for outdoor dining

A small, family-run boutique hotel sitting right at the foot of Etna with wonderful views, garden, pool and ambrosial Sicilian breakfasts

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep

Deep French countryside, fine hospitality from true nature lovers, fantastic bedrooms and delicious dinners in an outbuilding