Come to the wild Cévennes to hike, ride, kayak down the Hérault river – or just revel in your pretty, generous house, pool and garden space

Vibrant, artistic barn conversion in the heart of York, a five-minute walk from the Minster. Convivial place with helpful, friendly hosts

A fine 18th-century townhouse on the banks of the Loire beneath the gracious and soaring Château d'Amboise: explore the Loire countryside

Peaceful converted barn on a remote working farm – pet the donkeys, wild swim and row on the lake, warm up around the wood-burner

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

A tranquil and tucked-away feel for this terraced cottage with private patio, communal garden and plenty of room for six

On the site of an old sawmill in the mountains of the Jura, a guesthouse of warmth and charm - with table d'hôtes, a pool and a spa

Simple rooms on a spotless farm, delightful hosts, delicious fruit tarts at breakfast on Sundays. The perfect stopover en route to Calais

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

Come for big, peaceful bedrooms with views, delicious home cooked breakfasts and riverside strolls through ancient beech woodland

In the gardens of a laid-back country house, a barn with books, games, faded rugs and a grand piano – a treat for convivial families

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

Welcoming and friendly place in a non-touristy area of the city within walking distance of the centre and with a fabulous roof terrace

A 17th-century traditional Welsh longhouse in a very sheltered spot facing south and with a pretty garden surrounded by fields and meadows

Four pretty cottages with private terraces, a shared garden and muted interiors inspired by Norfolk’s landscapes. A short drive to the coast

Sympathetically restored barn in the heart of the Welsh countryside, nature lovers and walkers will find it paradise

Close to sandy beaches between Penzance and Helston, three places to stay with characterful interiors and freshly baked scones waiting