By a bubbling brook in the Mendips, close to Bath and Bristol, a wonderfully revived and welcoming inn with smart rooms and scrumptious food

Exposed beams and stone walls mix with modern art and minimalism to give a warm yet uncluttered luxury. Stylish yet relaxing

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

A destination for epicurians who also want exquisite surroundings and comfortable bedrooms. A charming garden too with a very French feel

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

A lovely old cottage in the cliffside village of St Lawrence. Watch boats sail by from the terrace, soak in an antique bath with sea views…

Great staff, beautiful design, a fine old building and sublime food make this 600-year-old inn a perfect escape all year round

A gorgeous apartment in the heart of a Jacobean-style manor house with sweeping views over woodlands and the wonderful gardens

A cool converted barn on an organic farm near Brittany’s loveliest beaches, with a kitchen garden and play area, perfect for foodie families

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Expect magical views from this peaceful, eco-friendly barn in a mid-Wales valley - wonderful escape for two, or come with a group of friends

Come for stunning views down to the bay of La Herradura and this traditional, family-focused 1990s house on three floors

Books, meadow flowers, a rocking chair by a cosy fire at this treasure-trove cottage of beautiful things - down tiny lanes in west Cork

A cracking English inn with open fires, great food, gorgeous rooms, happy staff, lovely gardens and well-kept English ales

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

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

Chat long with gentle hosts over home-grown dinners; see stars above, walks, rivers and wildlife all around. Rustic comfort in rural Burgos