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

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

Stay in a lovely 18th-century townhouse in one of the prettiest villages on the Loire surrounded by unspoilt countryside

Sofas in front of the fire, English wines and local ales, ambrosial food and smart rooms, all a short stroll from Sissinghurst Castle

Two peaceful olive grove farmhouses, a shared pool with incredible views, hours of hiking along beautiful trails, Pisa and Lucca nearby

Two restored mill buildings in the serene French countryside, with river views and artful interiors – a peaceful self-catering escape

Premier cru vineyards at the door, an original wine cellar for tastings, and a heated pool with vineyard views

Gorgeous rooms, delicious food, gardens and lake to explore, a spoiling spa with indoor pool and much comfort between moors and the sea

Come for peace, space and much comfort in this nifty house with gorgeous views over acres of vines from the terrace and pool

Gather your loved ones and come for colourful, exuberant interiors, an absolutely gorgeous covered veranda and a pool with moveable floor

Find gilded mirrors, rich brocades, Fragonard toiletries and an unexpected roof terrace at this 6-bedroom guest house near St Mark’s Square

Stunning views from sunny bedrooms. Delightful lively hosts, good breakfasts with homemade jams, colour galore in the acre of garden

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

A natural idyll made even better by friendly owners. Bask in the mountain views, explore astonishing Asturias, settle into the slow pace

Charming, laid-back B&B in the foothills of the Algarve. All you hear are the birds, yet the beaches are a ten-minute drive

Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views

Set off on blissful walks, trek home to crumpets and tea. There’s no better place to escape the 21st century than rural Devon

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.