A quintessential Grade II listed thatched cottage with glorious gardens near a 13th-century church and surrounded by rolling hills

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

Remote off-grid cottage 1400 feet above sea level in Northumberland National Park, with incredible night skies

Sheep's Head Way is reputedly one of the best walks in Ireland. Come back to roaring fires, a Rayburn, art and style – terrific restorations

Fine contemporary interiors within this half-timbered hillside villa, built with natural materials and with a beautiful pool and jacuzzi

A birdwatchers’ paradise in heavenly valley setting with friendly hosts and delicious seasonal cooking. Explore national park from the door

Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

Come for peace, space and much comfort in this nifty house with gorgeous views over acres of vines from the terrace and pool

20 minutes’ walk from Gordes and a hop from Aix, find grownup peace and minimalism for lovers of modern style and timeless Provence

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

In the heart of a starlight reserve in a protected natural park, three authentic cottages with walks from the door for immersion in nature

A natural idyll made even better by friendly owners. Bask in the mountain views, explore astonishing Asturias, settle into the slow pace

Lovely stone-built dog-friendly cottages with a pool in glorious, quiet surroundings near to lakes, mountains and wide sandy beaches

In the National Park with all its glories (Ashbourne for antiques, Chatsworth for history, Bakewell for its market), a sweet village cottage

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe

Like staying in a family home, only with Henri III furniture and rolling green views. Energetic hosts cook, farm, hunt, chat over champagne

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

Gaze on Umbrian hills as the children play, watch the fireflies dance at night. Dine fabulously in Gubbio - or here. Sociable-family bliss