Coastal retreats

A sweet escape for two, just a stone's throw from a secluded cove – explore the Helford river by boat, walk the coast path from the door

An island of oyster farms, salt pans and white beaches, woolly donkeys, countless push-bikes and the odd celeb – we love the Ile de Ré!

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

Near Mont St Michel, an 18th-century 'maison de plaisance' in historic grounds run by a charming family. Don't miss the table d'hôte!

A magical Sicilian island with a cluster of 400-year-old lava rock houses. Charming staff, freshwater pool & generous breakfast buffets

A welcoming, affordable seafront base for exploring St Malo and northern Brittany with small rooms, good food and a lively atmosphere

All the bleached beauty of the beach inside this comfortable cottage; a dining terrace with uplifting sea views and arching views of Kerry

Quirky lights and vintage 60s pieces add character to an immaculate home bathed in light and serenity – launch pad for stylish temptations

A warm, well-designed hideaway with views for lovers of nature, walking, wildlife-spotting and dreaming on the stunning Waternish peninsula

Surrounded by wildlife and water, this ultra-modern house has huge windows, white walls and designer furnishings. Blissfully remote

This fine old inn stands in blissful peace, a field or two back from the coastal path, with cosy rooms, delicious food and a rustic style

A sustainably run 1902 farmhouse and its converted cattle shed in countryside close to a wonderfully wild stretch of the North Devon coast

A three-storey terraced house, niftily restored and sitting beside the river with wonderful views over many colourful boats to Kingswear

With breathtaking views of the hills above Nice, a splendid villa with big bedrooms, shimmering infinity pool, and generous, fun owners

Gaze out to the shimmering bay from your bird and nature-filled retreat in the tree-studded mountains near Alcúdia

This B&B is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

3 lovely cottages sleeping 14 in total for very special holidays with a private beach, acres of land to explore and a welcome hamper of dreams

Countryside and seaside all in one go – what could be more inspiring? Lovely Louisa lives down the road, on hand if you need her