Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

Heart-warming B&B with hosts who are endlessly thoughtful. The food is exotic, organic, delicious and families are made very welcome

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

A converted chapel - cosy and creative - right on the beach. Wander the Cornish coast, explore small towns and retreat from the everyday

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

A delightful mix of old and new in a conservation village with a four-acre garden that attracts all the local birds. Guests love it here

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

A joy for foodies, peace seekers and lovers of period architecture… note the Honduran mahogany banister with inlaid jet and pearl

The sort of inn we all love – open fires, original beams, ancient flags, tasty food, with lovely bedrooms thrown in for good measure

Treat yourselves to a seamless stay in this 255-year-old manor house with dreamy gardens, sumptuous bedrooms, sparkling pool and spa

Spacious rooms and a cosy apartment a stone’s throw from Avignon’s historic sights. Retire to the heated pool after a busy day sightseeing

A 1750s farmhouse with a comfortable, informal feel resting in woodland. You're near to iconic tourist spots but hiding in the quiet woods

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

One of the loveliest houses in a very lovely village. Pretty rooms have parquet floors and white walls, the food is a delight

You're on an ancient packhorse trail just a stone's throw from the coast. There's a timeless feel to this place and the peace is deep

A delightfully Lilliputian Georgian cottage with all mod cons at the end of a terrace just a short walk to shops, cafés and the beach