Weaving medieval magic, this dreamy hideaway is an ideal base for nature-loving gourmands to explore the region

A glorious retreat for nature lovers with a natural swimming pool, bikes to borrow and the timeless soundtrack of the water surrounding you

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

Year-round Alpine fun at this peaceful home a short hop from the peaks with calm bedrooms, delicious breakfasts and mountain views

In the glorious Howardian Hills, a homely cottage with an open fire for chilly nights and a lovely, country-style kitchen filled with light

An old farmhouse in a hilltop town deep in wine country, with a charming owner intent on ensuring you make the most of your stay

An intimate cottage in deepest Cheshire, perfect for exploring Roman Chester, walking or relaxing in the garden

Comfortable, understated, spotless and authentic – a modest family hideaway on Brittany’s stunning Crozon Peninsula (think Land’s End...)

A lovely old house, remote, peaceful. Nature lovers and birdwatchers will relish staying in one of the most biodiverse areas in Europe

Two lovely places to stay down by the shore of Clew Bay for much peace, space and modern comforts in a magical watery world

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

Stylish B&B rooms in a peaceful little château, amongst rolling hills, woods and farmland - bikes and boules to borrow, lovely pool to share

Flop in a hammock and be lulled by Mediterranean scents and breezes, relax in an ancient Trullo – come here for raw beauty not for frills

A truly special barn conversion, flooded with light and with its own decked outdoor space surrounded by bucolic countryside

Generous apartments in a 300-year-old farmhouse with beautiful grounds and a swimming pool

Good restaurants, beach walks, a grand welcome for dogs: that’s Whitstable. Bring friends and stay in this smart house close to it all

A grand-looking stone building with fabulous views across the Derwent Valley from the terrace and garden – find quirky rooms and great food