Peaceful Highland hideaway on a wooded lochside: spy dolphins and otters, stargaze, and soak up the deep silence

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

Return to warming fires after hiking in Ireland's highest mountains. Two traditional cottages on the outskirts of pretty Killorglin

Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers

An adorable little 1800s cottage with a garden – simple, unpretentious and filled with the owner's colourful art on walls and lampshades

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

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

Warm family hospitality, magnificent surroundings, bedroom breakfasts, candlelit dinners and elegant windows overlooking the park

Irresistible for art, design and heritage-lovers, bird-watchers and those who love to explore Norfolk's wide open spaces

Two restored mill buildings in the serene French countryside, with river views and artful interiors – a peaceful self-catering escape

A beautiful 18th-century manor house on a productive wine estate with an enticing garden, spa and pool by a nature reserve. Views soar

Completely refurbished 18th-century roadside inn with special views, good food, restful bedrooms and all the benefits of Another Place

A family-run, environmentally friendly bistro with rooms near Grasmere: climb to the nearest viewing spot. Dogs welcome too

A peaceful, very stylish bolthole for 2 on the doorstep of glorious Holyrood Park, with Edinburgh’s sights a stroll away

Shady spots in the garden, a pool overlooked by tall palms, a bar nook stocked with drinks and a new spa in the Serra do Açor

Charming trulli apartments promise rustic comfort and panoramic views (horses too). Perfectly placed for exploring the area