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

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden

A former tobacco barn and an annexe with outdoor kitchen and courtyard, near good places to eat for relaxed days at the beach

A light-filled B&B packed with family memories and heirlooms in a small hamlet tucked into the foothills of the Dolomites

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

An enchanting Belle Epoque villa with a terraced garden and superb views across palm trees and vines to Mont Saint-Michel

Lovely owners have created this quirky space on their farm; side-by-side al fresco baths make it romantic for two

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

Choose the atmospheric early Georgian house or the garden bedrooms, all have views, Paul's welcome is genuine and his dinners delicious

Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

Come for huge skies, birds and wildlife, rare flora and fauna, precious pingo ponds and a comforting retreat from the hectic whirl

A thatched farmhouse only just over the channel near Rouen that’s well hidden in lush gardens, but worth finding for the gourmet food alone

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

A traditional croft house with far-reaching views to the Luskentyre estuary and Taransay for beaches, walks, wildlife and exploring

A 200-year-old village house surrounded by vineyards. Light-filled interiors, lots of art, a garden and your own sparkling pool

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals