In the Welsh Marches, down winding lanes, a delightful refurbished hop pickers' house - romantic bolthole for 2. Friendly owners, too

An elegant solution to a hotel - no rooms, but 13 charming villas in the heart of the maquis, nearly all with a private pool

A deceptively roomy 300-year-old stone cottage, with front-facing windows overlooking the harbour - just a short walk up to town

A roomy, stylish barn conversion in Devon's rolling hills with wonderful walks from the door and panoramic views of the Exe valley

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Treat yourselves to some downtime at this lush, semi-tropical hideaway with big pool, delicious breakfasts and charmingly rustic bedrooms

Explore Le Marche, Italy's hidden gem, from this tranquil agriturismo tucked among olive groves and fields above the Adriatic coast

A warm, gracious townhouse in a small town, run by delightful new hosts. Explore chateaux, canoe on the Loire... cycle to Angers!

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

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

On the site of an old sawmill in the mountains of the Jura, a guesthouse of warmth and charm - with table d'hôtes, a pool and a spa

Grand stone house set in tranquil parkland with a pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place

You're only a whisper away from history in this family-run château, where rose gardens, sumptuous bedrooms and generous breakfasts wait

Traditional and modern, verging on the opulent. Find a stone-flagged tap room for walkers, top modern food and Chatsworth-perfect bedrooms

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

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

Spread out in much style with friends or family in a beautifully renovated Victorian farmhouse at the foot of the Howgill fells