From Roman emperors in their country villas to Europe's ruling classes with their hunting lodges and rural estates, people have always sought to escape the mundane realities of life. In America, early industrial tycoons headed for the mountains, while in Europe, Queen Marie-Antoinette once played at being a milkmaid on her own "farm." In modern times, a fortunate few have managed to achieve a similar state of bliss by retreating to homes in some of the world's most beautiful locations. Here, in mountains, hills, woods, and waterscapes, these lucky people have found rest and relaxation - somewhere to restore their spirits and recharge their batteries. Great Escapes by Judith Miller celebrates each glorious hideaway in turn, encompassing a tiny fisherman's cottage on the Moroccan coast, a chalet in the Swiss Alps, a secluded Welsh farmhouse, and a concrete and glass water tower in a wooded copse. In every case, the result is a dazzling combination of environment and the owner's personality. These are homes whose atmosphere will haunt you long after you have closed the pages of the book. Step into a world far removed from the everyday, and visit some of the most glorious great escapes ever seen. Spectacular photography by Simon Upton of dream homes in fabulous locations.