Canoeing on the Tamar, valley walks galore, with the woodland garden a sea of daffodils in the spring. A magical self-catering hideaway

An Art Deco hotel in Lisbon's heart – all wood, chrome and marble, trendy lights, period photos in the bar, and the funicular to Bairro Alto

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

Come for a bright, roomy, uber-green and accessible larch-clad space with garden and pond in pretty countryside

Victorian almshouse with architectural pedigree, sweeping countryside views and easy access to charming local towns

An 18th-century converted barn with lofty beamed ceilings, exposed stonework, handmade oak windows and much art – pretty garden too

Immerse yourselves in the heather-clad peaks, moorland, glens and diverse wildlife of the magnificent Pentland Hills Regional Park

A deceptively roomy 300-year-old stone cottage, with front-facing windows overlooking the harbour - just a short walk up to town

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

Between Penzance and Helston and close to surf beaches, a perfect place for two. For peace-seekers and lovers of mid-century design

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

A newly built house facing the sea and surrounded by acres of land – perfect for swimmers, sailors, nature lovers and peace seekers

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Two rural retreats up a shared drive for gatherings of friends and family who enjoy the great outdoors and good food from the Meikleour Inn

A real treat to stay in this elegant 18th-century house with pampering bedrooms, gorgeous home-cooked food and stunning gardens with pool