Delightful, rustic retreat for families, romantic couples and singles. Food, views and owners are lovely

Two family and dog friendly retreats for lovers of the countryside, birdwatchers and those wishing to escape the crowds

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

A 19th-century bothy in remote, rugged countryside on the edge of the Cairngorms, for walkers, birders and seekers of peace

Comfortable, big family home with sparkling sea views over the Adriatic: discover the coast, explore Ancona and Loreto, enjoy the garden

A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

Explore woodlands, farmland and gardens, plunge into the heated pool, dine at Flora Restaurant at Trelowarren. This is civilized luxury

A lovely gîte, once a hunting lodge, with two private terraces overlooking the manicured gardens of an 1830s manor house

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

Sweep through vast wrought iron gates to this elegant Grade I listed Georgian country house with a swimming lake, yoga studio and sauna

Two homely gîtes sleeping 4 and 2 in rural farm country. Walk to the bakery; drive 15 minutes to Saint-Malo and riverside restaurants

A smartly renovated village pub with rooms welcoming locals, visitors, families and dogs on a Staffordshire country estate

A three storey house and garden with sea glimpses in the 'vieux village' named for the Mimosa trees which flower in profusion in winter

Vast house on an ancient Roman site with big terraced garden and pool. Grand yet homely, with air-con, spa and only 8 km to the city

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

A modern take on an Iron Age roundhouse with stunning sea views in Scotland’s wild west, perfect for couples

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

Weaving medieval magic, this dreamy hideaway is an ideal base for nature-loving gourmands to explore the region