Boutique hotel next to Funchal’s 15th-century cathedral, with a champagne and lobster bar, rooftop cocktail bar and an excellent restaurant

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

A luxurious eco-retreat plus extra room in the Space Conker in private woodland with views to the Chaîne des Aravis and Mont Blanc

A delightful mix of old and new in a conservation village with a four-acre garden that attracts all the local birds. Guests love it here

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

A light-filled studio with a sweet private terrace on the estate of a 16th-century manor - river views, glorious gardens and pure peace

A cosy bolthole near Paris's best museums, monuments and churches. A peaceful sleep and simple buffet breakfast set you up for sightseeing

Enjoy views over the lake, eat good food in the restaurant, sleep in antique-filled bedrooms, have a proper rest

After a bountiful breakfast of Loch Fyne kippers and homemade scones, head for Oban, gateway to the isles. Return to a dram by the fire

Classic-modern luxury, a charming young hostess and a peaceful setting – perfect for breakfast-lovers, wine buffs and all the family

A relaxed and stylish hotel on the Norfolk coast with an impressive restaurant, sumptuous bedrooms and super staff

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon

Four family-friendly self-catering casitas and an original cortijo in wildlife-rich acres near the sandy Costa de la Luz

Just the ticket if you want to escape from the hurly-burly and wind down with fresh air, good food, walks in nature and sublime views