Up at the top of Scotland’s west coast, a small, stylish and welcoming hotel with lovely owners and some nicely priced rooms

Lovely views from this converted farmhouse in peaceful Lot countryside, with terrace, sheltered pool and nine acres of grounds to explore

Large, unpretentious and very comfortable family house in splendid isolation with swimming pool, tennis court and well-tended gardens

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

Style, comfort and tranquillity combine in a lovely B&B near Bergerac. Sleep in elegant four-poster beds, breakfast on the sunny terrace…

A very special design-led garden apartment on the ground floor of an elegant 1835 house on one of the prettiest crescents in the city

A seamless blend of ancient and modern in this architect-designed villa with infinity pool and veranda for admiring the wonderful views

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

A grand yet very homely place with tasty home cooking and 200 acres to explore. Play golf, sail, cycle – wonderfully informal

Airy, spacious, sunny. This Lot gîte is a delight: linen curtains, oak stair, sunny pool. Sarlat and painted caves are an easy venture away

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Three family friendly cottages on this gorgeous eco farm with private gardens and organised outdoor activities if you like joining in

Two cottages which can be taken together, in wing of a warm yellow 1927 house. Charming owners, beautiful grounds and breathtaking views

Magical sunshine-filled grounds with olive trees, palms, cacti and carob surround the charmingly-coloured stone of these 1750 farm buildings

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

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

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

Straight out of a fairy tale, a rustic cottage by a babbling brook: a magical escape for couples, the craggy coast in easy reach