A reader writes, 'This place turned out to be one of life's wonderful experiences - a beautiful setting, gorgeous food, kindest of hosts...'

This architect-designed passive style house sits just behind the sand dunes at Waxham beach, one of Norfolk’s most lovely beaches

Traditional beamed cottage, tucked in the hills, with views to distant beaches plus colourful gardens and a pool

A stone building designed by Sir John Soane in the stable yard of this historic and beautiful estate with deer park and woodland gardens

Three very special places to stay on one glorious estate. Gather those whose company you enjoy and immerse yourselves in beauty and history

With stunning coastal views and family farm surroundings, these cottages are bright and roomy; plus wood-burning stoves and indoor pool

An authentic, charming and spacious home with garden, pool and lake, deep in the Dordogne valley and decorated with uncluttered elegance

A handsome old country manor house in the heart of the Loire castles surrounded by parkland, forests, lakes, small hamlets, vineyards and châteaux

A beautifully converted building, part of an old mill, now a gorgeous place to stay with the stream running through and shared parkland

In deep countryside, an expertly renovated 15th-century chapel on the banks of the Lot – a serene spot near vibrant towns

Slow down! Swim, soak in the jacuzzi, taste Campanian cuisine and wine, explore the national park, pop to Agropoli's beaches... be pampered

Immaculate Cotswold beauty with great food, welcoming staff, handsome rooms and a sun-trap terrace, plus countryside walks from the door

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

A wonderful country house, a unique wine story, very luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, infinity pool and restaurant

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

Elegant historic house set in acres of grounds transports you to a bygone belle époque (with all mod cons)

Everything you’d want of a lovely country inn – pretty rooms, tasty food, local ales in a beamed bar and fabulous walking

Treat yourselves to some downtime at this lush, semi-tropical hideaway with big pool, delicious breakfasts and charmingly rustic bedrooms