A spacious farmhouse with a pool in the grounds of a stately château. Wander the walled garden, explore the countryside and pretty villages

A luxurious eco-retreat plus extra room in the Space Conker in private woodland with breathtaking views to the Chaîne des Aravis and Mont Blanc

Green and serene, a striking array of eco cottages on a family farm where style and comfort reign, close to the coast but far from the crowd

Deep in undulating countryside, three pretty stone cottages with a shared, family-friendly saltwater pool and charming, generous owners

Atmospheric manor with heaps of history, sumptuous bedrooms, a cornucopia of quirky finds, an open-hearted host – it’s a treat to stay here

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Leave the car, everything is walkable & buses are practically free. Visit restaurants, vineyards & markets from your lofty village bolthole

Set loose your inner castaway on your very own island with enthralling views and much wildlife a short boat ride from Skye

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines

Take in the stunning views, explore the narrow medieval lanes and soak up the old-world charm of one of France’s most beautiful villages

A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

Breakfast on homemade ricotta, bask on a cool white lounger, swim in the cove below. We love this young, friendly, rustic B&B

An 18th-century watermill with millrace and pond, now a smart B&B with a swimming pool and pretty gardens, run by charming English hosts

It's not often you get an entire hamlet to yourselves but here it is – 10 traditional stone houses with big communal spaces in rural bliss

A lovely big old farmhouse for gatherings of friends and family with your own indoor pool, sauna, gym and jacuzzi