In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

Restored 18th-century farm building surrounded by countryside, with a good pub a short walk away and Lake Windermere a ten-minute drive

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

The living is easy here: laze in the subtropical garden, float in the saltwater pool, let the kids play and meet other guests over dinner

An eco renovation of an 1800s gamekeepers cottage, now a charming place for couples or families to immerse themselves in nature

A lovely restored house on a farm beside a cluster of ancient buildings surrounded by lush forest and grasslands – a deeply rural spot

A pretty stone single-storey house, now renovated beautifully into a comfortable hideaway with wonderful views to woodland and river

Big beautiful apartments in a serene setting in southern Tuscany, with pool. And courses for everyone - organised by one delightful family

A large cob and stone Devon farmhouse in a sheltered dip near to Rosemoor and the coast, with valley views over the garden and pond

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place

Delightful, rustic retreat for families, romantic couples and singles. Food, views and owners are lovely

Artists, poets, nature lovers, walkers and dreamers will be happy in this simple, airy suite surrounded by a fecund garden and much peace

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Two duplex apartments filled with art and sculptures inside a beautiful 18th-century orangery, minutes from magnificent Versailles

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Charming, vivacious hosts make you feel welcome at this splendid 16th-century home. Cooking classes, wine pairing and excellent regional food

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