The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

Stay just minutes from the sea in colourful Donaghadee for wild swims, island visits, bird watching and coastal walks

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

Sleek, contemporary style with a stunning view. Soak up the sunrise, scuba dive off the Medes islands or simply stroll to the local bar.

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Big skies, a tantalising beach and truly inspired food combinations at this friendly, busy coastal village inn – stylish rooms too

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

A 300-year-old cottage and a secluded, magical setting next to the longest sea loch in the UK, for walkers, dreamers and nature lovers

A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces with a shared pool and games room, a short hop from pretty Auvillar

Thatched cottage perfect for families; surfing at Croyde, walks on Exmoor, sunny barbecues in the garden and cosying up by the wood-burner

A honey-hued stone farmhouse or a stylish cottage – both are deep in delicious countryside with lovely walks by the rambling river

A very special renovation of a 12th-century convent, now an elegant, tranquil place to stay with beautiful, bird-filled gardens

Soak up Provençal peace in a charming estate in the Alpilles, with stylish ground-floor B&B rooms, olives, vines and a friendly family dog

Come for very comfortable B&B suites with garden views in a converted 1880s barn with its own charming sitting and dining rooms

Enjoy convivial gatherings from this Georgian country house with acres of land, gardens and woodlands just a short hop from Durham

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden

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