A gem of a house in a lovely unspoilt village with an intelligent, interesting owner who gives you delicious food and local wines

A rare treat to stay in this lovely stone farmhouse in the Durham Dales with acres of private farmland and magical interiors by Rita Konig

Come for excellent food, warm interiors and nicely priced rooms in this light old Rectory with a pretty terrace for summer drinks

A pretty upside-down cottage, formerly a dovecote, lovingly restored with sustainability the focus

This 300-year-old Cotswold pub, the hub of picture-book Sapperton from which there are glorious walks, is a superb place to eat and stay

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

Magical for nature lovers, with wraparound views to the coastline of Skye. Inside: warmth, luxury and not a whisper from the wildest gale

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

A gorgeous wooden-clad off-grid cottage deep in the National Park with far-reaching views, unfussy interiors and spoiling extra treatments

French elegance meets English comfort in Paris by St Germain. Organic croissants, crisp duvets, an open fire... a favourite of many guests

A magical chateau set in the forested hills of Burgundy with lovely rooms, peaceful walks, home cooking and a merry welcome

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

5 houses near Siena to make design-lovers happy; come for the rural solitude of ancient stone farm buildings with urban interiors

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

A humdinger of a pub, hidden in a sleepy village in the Surrey Hills, oozing character and charm and with delicious food and comfy bedrooms

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

Gracious hosts, a mix of 17th-century style and contemporary design with comfort in spades, just minutes from the Rialto Bridge and market