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

Burrowed into the olive groves of the lush Valle d’Itria, a restored masseria with five trulli, an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub and lovely views

Peaceful Basque farmhouse turned smart country B&B, only 20 minutes from restaurants and museums in Bilbao and unspoiled sandy beaches

Friendly hosts, good food and clever design in this house looking over Kilmartin Glen. Slow down, watch the sunrise and marvel at the peace

A Georgian townhouse full of character for an epic family and friend get-together. The best of Hay is a stroll away

In the city of Trapani, at the foot of Mount Erice, a nobleman's villa with a warm heart and exotic gardens. A hop from the Egadi Islands

Your very own château in the Dordogne for big family get-togethers and special celebrations

Sweep along the gravel drive through lawns and specimen trees to this elegant manor house with 17th-century roots

An upmarket, very comfortable old stone village house with tasty breakfasts and a sunny courtyard full of colourful flowers

Escape to the edge of the Atlantic. Find airy rooms and good food served from terraces overlooking the ocean – all with a green conscience

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 farmhouse in a peaceful valley for memorable get-togethers with friends or family, just 20 minutes from the Jurassic Coast

A medieval monastery, stunningly revived, in untouristy, car-free Pisciotta. Sip greco on the terrace; scramble through olives to the sea

Idyllic cottage hidden in deepest, foodiest Somerset - bask on your own patio among roses and sweet peas. Bring bikes – loads to explore

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

Near Vosges mountains, a happy homely hotel surrounded by woods and flower-filled meadows with friendly hosts. Deliciously peaceful

Breakfasts with sausages from home-reared rare breed pigs, a big log fire and relaxed friendly hosts. Acres of garden and woodland paths