A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

On its own wooded estate, a special manor house of character. Art on the walls, maps and wellies to borrow, gardens to romp in, super views

A vibrant open-plan space with a wild garden, river for swimming, splashing or fishing and the chance to spot kingfishers and red squirrels

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

Anouk & Gilles have fine-tuned their welcome. Lounge by the pool and dine exquisitely within their landscaped park

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near

Everything you’d want of a lovely country inn – pretty rooms, tasty food, local ales in a beamed bar and fabulous walking

17th-century farmhouse full of colour and interest with friendly hosts and great breakfasts. Explore the Cotswolds - bring the dog too

A natural idyll made even better by friendly owners. Bask in the mountain views, explore astonishing Asturias, settle into the slow pace

A renovated, comfy Victorian cottage behind a small village pub, a hub for the local community and with good food, ales and wine

An 1820s farmhouse at the end of a quiet road in the North York Moors National Park, overlooking a forest and surrounded by fields

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

A smart riverside inn with airy interiors that brim with character – old beams, open fires, well-kept ales and comfy bedrooms

A serene retreat basking above the Algarve with sea views from the garden and pool, and charming Moorish details

A lovely honey-coloured stone cottage with private walled garden, large terrace and pool, outdoor bath and pergola-covered terrace