Romantic Breaks

White-painted beams, wonky white walls and parking (oh joy!) - an exquisite St Ives retreat near harbour and subtropical gardens

Ask your hosts about the golden ratio used to build this castle, evident in its original rock-face pool and its huge, uncluttered rooms

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

Stunning. A listed gatehouse with stone spiral staircase leading to romantic space, oak floors and far-reaching views across the Wye valley

A country retreat for two in the Cotswolds. Sink into plump sofas in front of the blazing wood-burner, sleep in a pretty beamed bedroom…

Tranquil hideaway in a rural Norfolk village, close to farmers’ markets, pubs, restaurants, nature reserves, grand houses and the coast

A stylish little nest for 2 with delicious breakfast delivered if you want. Salty air, tall ships and plenty of good restaurants on the quay

Cosy hideaway for two surrounded by woods and wildflower meadows. Stroll to shops and pubs, explore historic Border towns or the coast

Stock up on delicious, soft sheep's cheese nearby, return to a sweet house with salvaged finds and charm aplenty. A super bolthole for 2

Former blacksmith’s workshop in a chocolate-box corner of the New Forest, where clematis climbs the trellis and all you hear are the birds

Two cosily converted cottages each sleeping two, tucked in peaceful woodland with breathtaking views across the Tamar. Short walk to the pub

Hugged by Cotswold stone walls, a 1600s village cottage of huge comfort and charm - close to Tetbury, strolling distance to a super inn

Leave the car, everything is walkable & buses are practically free. Visit restaurants, vineyards & markets from your lofty village bolthole

A wild old windmill - what a wow! Hand-built stairs, a curved kitchen, and the living room a lookout with views all the way to Dartmoor

After trekking Offa's Dyke, return to a cosy wood-burner stocked with logs and a sumptuous bed - you'll love this country retreat for two

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

For escapists, wannabe writers and lovers of rural bliss: a boho hideaway for two (four at a squeeze) in this lush corner of Galicia

Close to the loveliest part of the Basingstoke Canal, a romantic cottage good for leisurely walks, farm-shop food and lounging