Pretty, thatched, perfectly round: a romantic village bolthole with retro touches. Grab flip-flops, leads and run the dogs on Pendower beach

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

Saint Emilion and Castillon both a hop away from a warm, wonderful barn with owners to match. Stylish, cosy and deep in organic vines

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

Deliciously comfortable, hospitable, boutique B&B - in a secluded village within easy reach of Reims and the vineyards of Champagne

A beautiful little house in a corner of the garden: walk for miles or just to the local pub, barbecue on the deck with its rural views

An 18th-century watermill with millrace and pond, now a smart B&B with a swimming pool and pretty gardens, run by charming English hosts

Come for an oasis of peace - no crowds in the National Park, just olive groves, mountain views and tranquil nature

An elegant palazzo with three swish apartments in the heart of Baroque Salento with a glorious roof terrace, just steps from Piazza Salandra

You’ll eat well here, among locals who love the food. The village is quiet, the rooms serenely modern. A great base for a holiday en famille

Two cosy cottages on a former winemaking estate with private terraces, a shared pool, stunning views and glorious walks from the door

Come for a pretty village in fabulous walking country, delicious estate-sourced food, friendly staff and very comfortable bedrooms