This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

A majestic renovation of a Victorian 'model' farm with underfloor heating, open plan design, light bright lines and not a whiff of IKEA

Come for an oasis of peace - no crowds in the National Park, just olive groves, mountain views and tranquil nature

Rooms are good value, breakfast is taken overlooking the garden and there's superb veggie food next door - a Sawday's Community Champion

An eco B&B (minus hair shirt) in the stunning Meon Valley surrounded by woodland and wildlife - a Sawday's Community Champion

In a commanding position surrounded by private land, this old manor house is excellently equipped and ideal for a big family holiday

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

High above Lisbon, this small but elegant former palace offers stunning views, stylishly rustic rooms and a dreamy, sun-trap patio

Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

Remote three-bedroom cottage in Northumberland National Park, with far-reaching views over hills and valleys and walks in all directions

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

Sheep's Head Way is reputedly one of the best walks in Ireland. Come back to roaring fires, a Rayburn, art and style – terrific restorations

A contemporary country-house hotel with a lovely spa and peaceful gardens - Sandringham and the north Norfolk coast are close

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room