A rare treat to stay in this lovely stone farmhouse in the Durham Dales with acres of private farmland and magical interiors by Rita Konig

3 lovely cottages sleeping 14 in total for very special holidays with a private beach, acres of land to explore and a welcome hamper of dreams

Elegance and ease mark this gentle group of Loire-Valley buildings, with soft-textured interiors and the owners’ fine hospitality and food

18th-century barn with charming hosts, an infinity pool, delicious breakfasts and good walks; drive five minutes for gourmet dining

A treat to stay in one half of this unique Grade I listed arch sitting at the estate entrance, just a short walk from the Beckford Arms

A beautiful house with Pyrenean views, generous hosts and wonderful hiking, biking and skiing nearby. A rare pearl

Come for the great outdoors and wrap-around views of Muncaster Fell and Scafell Pike from this warm, bright and spacious Passivhaus

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

Contemporary lodge on a remote peninsula with spectacular views; walk, cycle or kayak, explore nature reserves and unspoiled beaches

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

Hilltop farmhouse converted into a light and spacious, contemporary country house where vintage and modern happily mix. Stunning views, too

Weymouth Bay and Portland views, the sound of breaking waves… this wild remote place will blow your cobwebs away and restore your psyche

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site

This grand house oozes old-fashioned comfort and stands on the river Derwent – find traditional bedrooms, delicious food and an open fire

Very relaxed B&B at this 17th-century country house just 5 minutes from the perched village of St-Paul-de-Vence and 10 from the sea

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

Big elegant wrought-iron gates lead to the scent of honeysuckle and jasmine, and wonderful bedrooms filled with beauty and light

Designer cool suites, apartments, a villa – a sophisticated oasis of a place – near white sands, curious caves, turquoise sea, Lecce