Come for the utter silence and the rare beauty of this far north-westerly landscape, teeming with wildlife. An antidote to city life

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Spacious gîte in a former hunting lodge, set on one of the oldest estates in Pézenas, for a relaxing getaway with family and friends

Eat in the sheltered, quirky, outdoor dining area, enjoy Madame's colourful garden in its village setting - ideal for those on a budget

Historic pub with immaculate new bedrooms and a happy atmosphere. A waterside terrace for summer, blazing open fires for winter

An elegant, historical building in the heart of Catania - an intimate hotel, yet grand with gorgeous architecture and a wonderful welcome

Feel at ease in a lovely old townhouse filled with pictures and personality and including a separate loft apartment

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

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

A pleasure to stay in such a dreamy château surrounded by a beautiful terrace, elegant gardens and parkland, a lake, river and waterfall

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

A true country classic set beside the road in a quiet spot with stunning views to the South Downs, great food and very comfortable bedrooms

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

Simple country cottage living on a working organic farm. Bring your hiking boots or bikes, stride out from the door

A quintessential Grade II listed thatched cottage with glorious gardens near a 13th-century church and surrounded by rolling hills

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