After a bountiful breakfast of Loch Fyne kippers and homemade scones, head for Oban, gateway to the isles. Return to a dram by the fire

A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

Hilltop paradise with a pool, spa, and a wild-open setting: perfect for hikers, bikers, painters, wine lovers! Large groups welcome

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

There’s a Tuscan feel to this lovely, family-friendly place – walk to the sound of cicadas, stargaze, visit vineyards, markets and castles

An 18th-century stone cottage sitting in the glorious Yorkshire Dales. Nature-lovers and walkers will be well pleased and so will their dog

A traditional coaching inn dating from the 18th century with good food served in private and public dining rooms on the Wellington Estate

Bedrooms are gorgeous, the wild ocean is close, and the people of Galicia are friendly and caring. You’ll pick up the same vibe here

Heaps to do on-site: organic farm shop & café, cookery & cheese-making courses, farm tours. A brilliant base for exploring the Cotswolds too

A sustainably-designed small, family-run eco hotel within a nature park by the sea in stunning Basque country. Great food too

Up the winding road to stillness, nature and a magical view. There’s glorious Gubbio to explore, and a log fire to come home to

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Great design along with much comfort and warmth an hour from Inverness airport, but a world away from the city and with stunning views

Château apartments with a heated pool, parkland and a menagerie - Gold Beach and the British Normandy Memorial are on the doorstep

You'll feel relaxed in this big light-filled house with plunge pool and outdoor cinema; walk along the river with Portugal on the other side

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool