Breakfasts with sausages from home-reared rare breed pigs, a big log fire and relaxed friendly hosts. Acres of garden and woodland paths

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

A fortified castle in parkland, built mostly in the 1300s on the Montbazens plateau, near to the stunning Averyon gorges

Rustic, relaxing, comfortable and fun with pool and play area, river beaches, great hosts, peaceful countryside, an hour from Porto

Rustic farmhouse with two and a half acres of landscaped gardens, a swimming pool and views over the Pyrenees – the sunrises are amazing

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool

An alpine hotel connected to nature with spa, sauna and swimming pool fed from a natural spring; mountains & lakes to explore, yoga classes, & more

Taste the wine, plunge into the granite pool, play billiards in the library, linger outdoors as swallows swoop – eat delicious local dishes

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

Get away from it all in 'old' France, where melons taste like melons & hikes start from the door. This rural bolthole is a serious treat

Gather the clans and just come. It's lovely here among acres of wildlife-filled grounds – a Sawday's Community Champion

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

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

This fine old inn stands in blissful peace, a field or two back from the coastal path, with cosy rooms, delicious food and a rustic style

Magical for nature lovers, with wraparound views to the coastline of Skye. Inside: warmth, luxury and not a whisper from the wildest gale