Tranquil retreat with pool, pétanque and spa – the perfect base for exploring historic Poitiers, châteaux and wonderful wine country

A delightful eyrie surrounded by water, forest, wildflowers in spring and summer, views to distant islands - just a short stroll to Ullapool

An 1820s beach house just 50 metres from the pretty sands and a first-floor deck for al fresco meals with stunning views over the water

Fabulous bakes and hot waffles at breakfast, green fields all around and Normandy steeped in history. Great for foodies and historians

Two duplex apartments filled with art and sculptures inside a beautiful 18th-century orangery, minutes from magnificent Versailles

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?

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

Find good taste, peacefulness and warm hospitality, steps away from the car-free Via Toledo, in the heart of the city

Dominating the village is this historic hotel... all frescoes, chandeliers, splendour at every turn. And a handsome pool, too

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

An 18th-century cottage for four on a working sheep farm: walk the Pentland Hills, get the bus to Edinburgh for culture

Full of country-hideaway chic, this special holiday home is in one of the loveliest parts of the Var, surrounded by 10 private acres

Traditional house in a rural part of the Algarve with a spectacular garden, a pool and a tennis court, and restaurants a short stroll

A beautiful old farmhouse, carefully renovated with great authenticity and charm, surrounded by other farm buildings and a walled garden

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

One of the loveliest houses in a very lovely village. Pretty rooms have parquet floors and white walls, the food is a delight