Come for a spot of high-end cossetting with big, beautiful bedrooms, good food and far-reaching views in the Northumberland National Park

Come for the utter peace and quiet in this cosy cottage with amazing views and private walks to explore on the Bodnant Estate

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

Rustic, sophisticated, relaxed, charming… ancient Follonico is all these things, and gazes on the loveliest hills in Tuscany

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

A lovely little bolthole to return to after days out exploring pretty Cotswold villages and walking in an AONB straight from the door

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

Delightful, rustic retreat for families, romantic couples and singles. Food, views and owners are lovely

Tranquil cottage tucked away on a private estate on the Llyn Peninsula, with walks starting from the door and unspoiled beaches to discover

Pluck grapes, splash in the child-shallow pool and explore the ‘Yorkshire of Italy’ with rolling green hills and conical trulli

A glamourous escape in central Nice. Creative art-filled interiors, a fabulous tropical garden, sumptuous buffet breakfasts, pool and spa

A light and airy barn conversion, very comfortable and rural, sitting on a hill with views to the south overlooking the Stour valley

Superb views, scenic walks and a huge range of activities all within easy reach of this beautifully restored property

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

What a surprise! Tucked into a row of tightly woven old cottages is this contemporary open-plan hideaway with huge windows and much flair

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Surrounded by wildlife and water, this ultra-modern house has huge windows, white walls and designer furnishings. Blissfully remote