Hidden Gems

A confident style for this mid-19th-century house, with a Mediterranean garden, elegant terrace and pool, a stroll from the historic centre

An elegant townhouse, built in 1830 and once the sous-préfecture for Rochefort, with spacious, light-filled rooms and a garden with pool

Charming 15th-century farmhouse near Montrésor and Loches with immense lawns, orchards and a fabulous pool

Bring friends and lounge by the pool in this vibrant, communal villa; modern art, ancient forts and restaurants galore are minutes away

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea

An ancient manor from the middle ages, built against a stone cliff with extensive terraced grounds, pool and parkland filled with wildlife

A friendly rural town pub with smart rooms, locally inspired menus and Cheshire and north Wales to explore – bring the dog too

A bright, light newly built annexe flat adjoining a farmhouse and sitting on a hill looking out over a lake and fields beyond to the village

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

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

A super stylish barn conversion with idyllic organic gardens to explore: five acres of woods, orchard, wildflower meadow and natural pond

Traditional house with a contemporary and imaginative interior; stroll to shops and restaurants, jump in the car to explore Provence

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

Charming family house with a large garden and a pool; walk to the nearest village for shops and restaurants. Provence is on your doorstep

High above the bay of Naples, this lovely B&B could be a Fellini film set. Romantic rooms are furnished with antiques, dinner is delicious

The views are sensational, the bedrooms full of charm and higgledy-piggledy beams. Sip Perigord Noir on the terrace and amble to the market

You’ve got history on your doorstep in this beautiful and serene B&B, with charming gardens and a real sense of style in every room