2 lakes, streams, landscaped gardens, woodlands and waterfalls... a paradise for families, nature lovers, peace-seekers and birdwatchers

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

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

A fascinating place steeped in history and abuzz with prize-winning winery activity. Plus rustic cottages, golf, a restaurant and 2 pools

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

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

An 18th-century watermill with millrace and pond, now a smart B&B with a swimming pool and pretty gardens, run by charming English hosts

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

An achingly elegant boutique hotel set in Mallorca's olives and orchards: candlelit organic dinners, infinity pool, a smart little bar...

Enjoy fields of lavender and vines as far as the eye can see from this neat cottage, sharing a pool and gorgeous gardens with other guests

Elegant house with sprawling gardens and space for family and friends, within walking distance of the coast

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

A beautifully renovated getaway set in glorious countryside near the Lakes. Strike out on walks from the door, relax in the woodland garden

Adorable cottage with a Highland lodge feel – walk straight into the hills, swim in the Spey, relax in the whisky room and sitooterie

A quirky hotel with enthusiastic owners in an authentic Andalucian town, just ten minutes up winding roads from Marbella

Sustainably built Suffolk retreat with plenty of space for friends and family to properly unwind (a steam room seals the deal)