Come to hike, climb or ski from this fine ancient-modern mountain house. Charming young owners make great breakfasts

Stylish, quirky and luxuriously furnished barn conversion – great for friends sharing. Fabulous walking country and views too

At every turn something curious, recycled, hand-crafted, memorable - great for relaxing in hidden corners or by the pool, and for parties

2 cottages – from log-burner to LED mood lights, treat of a country retreat in the North York Moors National Park. Huge fun for all

Beautiful, art-filled house in the bird-filled Somerset Levels. Walk, cycle, explore Wells and Glastonbury, or just stay put and be serene

Choose one of four beautiful farmhouses near the river Dart and go kayaking, surfing, fine dining or lounge in the hot tub and by the pool

A charming old hotel surrounded by fields, forests and mountains, with a great circular potager and a fabulous spa… retreat from the world

Drop into a lush Alps valley to a warm welcome from hosts passionate about the environment, art, cooking and the great outdoors

Delicious food, long views and a warm welcome make this country estate more than worth the adventurous road. Come hungry – and in daylight!

Warm generous hosts, country antiques, guided walks, sauna, jacuzzi, pool with a view - and food unrivalled for creativity and invention

A clutch of airy apartments, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool.

Shabby chic meets antique in this large Swaledale farmhouse with views, open fire, gorgeous bedrooms, original art and a heated indoor pool

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods to wander, streams to play in and stunning views for country-lovers

The Monadhliath mountain range forms the spectacular backdrop of this unusual Highland hideaway inspired by The Hobbit; great for groups

Renaissance beams and fat modern sofas, charming old tiles and a tiny library in the tower… beautiful treats await 7km from Urbino

Stylish, Tuscan-influenced décor, best balconies have superb views. Fitness centre, fishing - ski right to the ski lift: 3km from Courmayeur

The medieval village of your dreams is here on an Umbrian hillside: rich hotel suites, trattoria, library, pool…in finely renovated houses

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food