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

Sitting next to the church in the most picturesque village in England, this ancient, handsome cottage is packed with historical interest

Lovely old house with award-winning restaurant and indoor swimming pool. Sleeps up to 18 so just the ticket for a big family gathering

Eco-friendly B&B overlooking Lake Como with marvellous mountain and lake views. Heaps of space, generous hosts, a menagerie of animals

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

Soak up Provençal peace in a charming estate in the Alpilles, with stylish ground-floor B&B rooms, olives, vines and a friendly family dog

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

Come to be looked after with delicious food and spoiling bedrooms in this mini stately home set in gorgeous parkland near Ludlow

Elegant 19th-century château deep in the Dordogne forest promises seclusion, serenity and an unhurried, sun-soaked escape.

Near vibrant market towns, this lovely cottage on a rural estate with views of Pen y Fan is a delicious escape from the hurly burly

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

Overlooking Menton and the Mediterranean, this lofty apartment in a grand Belle Époque palace is perfectly placed to explore the Riviera

A striking cabin, drenched in light, with views over open countryside to the Sugar Loaf in the distance

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

A sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

You'll feel relaxed in this big light-filled house with plunge pool and outdoor cinema; walk along the river with Portugal on the other side

Delicious vegetarian cooking, a pool, lemon groves and hazy views of the Hyblaean mountains make a perfect escape near Cassibile