Steam in the hot tub, gaze over crashing waves or later stars. Inside is swish, kids play in their games room, dinner is in view of the sea

A striking modern villa tucked away off a small road above the Serchio valley with sparkling pool, gardens and Apuan mountain views

Beautifully restored house with a literary history, no neighbours and private access to a sandy bay beyond the pines

In wine country, a beautifully revived 16th-century manor and hospitable B&B. Visit Angers’ cathedral, cruise along the Loire to Saumur

A welcoming, warming inn for locals and visitors alike with a blazing log fire, excellent local and seasonal food and proper Devon ales

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

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods and meadows to wander and stunning views of The Black Mountains

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

A cosy, very comfortable stone cottage with fine views across the valley, just a couple of miles from the southern tip of Ullswater

A townhouse with a walled garden by the church in a peaceful village where friendly Scottish owners feed and look after you well

Modern comforts, traditional cosiness and a warm welcome. There are walks from the door, country houses to visit and a pub in the village

A stylish, refined 17th-century house off a quiet street with its own garden and lots of generous surprises, a short hop to everything

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage

A hop from the Côte d'Azur is this elegant home: bring friends, explore the garden, curl up on the sofa, dip in the heated pool

Come for much grace, space and inspiration in this huge-windowed, view-filled spot surrounded by gloriously untrammelled countryside

Wild and peaceful small hotel bordering National Park of Guadarrama. Listen to birdsong, hike in the sierra, spend the day in Segovia

Come for a delightful old stone house in gentle, undulating countryside, with charming hosts, fabulous food and a huge dollop of fun

A sustainably-designed small, family-run eco hotel within a nature park by the sea in stunning Basque country. Great food too