A bright and spacious cottage set against a backdrop of woodland for days spent happily reading by the wood-burner or lunch on the sun deck

Three family friendly gites with a contemporary feel, a saltwater pool, national trails to wander and wellness retreats on offer

Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

Friendly hosts, good food and clever design in this house looking over Kilmartin Glen. Slow down, watch the sunrise and marvel at the peace

A blissfully quiet and welcoming New Cross home. English and oriental blend - including breakfast! Rooms are airy, richly decorated and fun

Immaculate bedrooms, a rustic bar... but there’s more to this place than cool design. The service is superb and the food is lovely

A remote, rustic place for a digital detox - wildly romantic and perfect in summer with the doors open. Children can play in safety

Wood-burners, water sports and wildlife at four cosy farm conversions a half mile from their own quay. Wild swimming and barbecues await

A small, family-run boutique hotel sitting right at the foot of Etna with wonderful views, garden, pool and ambrosial Sicilian breakfasts

Gorgeous scenic views from this relaxed and friendly B&B tucked in a tiny hamlet in the Dordogne near Bergerac

A grand, 16th-century Breton château complete with dovecote, turret and chapel surrounded by 50 acres of parkland, woods and small lake

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

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

Sleek modern interiors now grace this ancient building with architectural joys, a courtyard garden and rooftop terrace with views

Welcome to an immaculate and historic retreat with private gardens, ten minutes from the Finistère coast (and oysters!)

A private house set in Cornwall's largest rewilding estate, ancient and quiet, made for slow family gatherings and long, easy days

Feel like the lord or lady of the manor at this sublime restoration of a Tudor, timber-framed stone house in lovely Ludlow

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool