This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

An upmarket, very comfortable old stone village house with tasty breakfasts and a sunny courtyard full of colourful flowers

This friendly, Scottish island B&B has the Atlantic at the end of the garden and air so clean the lichen grows like beards from the trees

A family-run 1700s thatched Inn in a rural hamlet with super food, a grand team to look after you and picnic benches in a pretty garden

Inside, a grand cathedral ceiling, outside, wisteria-covered terrace and pretty pool. Atlantic sands, Cognac and La Rochelle are in reach

Come for an oasis of peace - no crowds in the National Park, just olive groves, mountain views and tranquil nature

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

Hospitable Jorge and Clotilde love nothing more than sharing their colourful, chaotic old house with guests. The farm produce is fabulous

Cosy country cottage for four on an organic farm in the Welsh borders. Wake to the sounds of birds and sheep, walk off supper on rural romps

A stunning château with huge rooms, pretty balconies with views, peaceful garden. Super owners, excellent dinners - and child-friendly too

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Idyllic cottage hidden in deepest, foodiest Somerset - bask on your own patio among roses and sweet peas. Bring bikes - loads to explore

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

Dreamy, languid beauty at this spacious, airy, arty house with garden and pool in typical Pugliese countryside

Characterful and family-friendly apartments on this lovely wine-country estate: great hosts, glorious grounds and pool, home-grown food

Breakfasts with sausages from home-reared rare breed pigs, a big log fire and relaxed friendly hosts. Acres of garden and woodland paths

Charming hosts, ample bedrooms and memorable dinners... deeply authentic and super special. You'll adore Hotel Coutettaz and long to return