Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

Lovely old house with award-winning restaurant and indoor swimming pool. Sleeps up to 18 so just the ticket for a big family gathering

A dramatic house with stylish interiors – designed to bring the outdoors in so you feel wrapped in nature. Great for families or friends

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

A beautiful little house in a corner of the garden: walk for miles or just to the local pub, barbecue on the deck with its rural views

A romantic retreat with a pool in the heart of the wild and wonderful Lot valley - come for bracing hikes, river swims and stunning views

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Such a special place, right on the historic Georgian quay – a cosy, friendly place with dogs, children and families welcome in all parts

This old stone building, a former olive warehouse, is beautifully restored and sits on its own – a simple bolthole for rest and recuperation

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

Stay in a celebrated French author’s holiday home, beautifully restored and tucked among pines next to one of Brittany's loveliest bays

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

Garden lovers will flock to this lovely B&B with two spacious suites and delicious breakfasts – a good spot by a quiet hamlet

Near vibrant market towns, this lovely cottage on a rural estate with views of Pen y Fan is a delicious escape from the hurly burly

A sweet retreat for a nature-loving couple, with soul-searching views and the smell of the sea. Logs and Breton cider are on the house...

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

Books, meadow flowers, a rocking chair by a cosy fire at this treasure-trove cottage of beautiful things - down tiny lanes in west Cork