Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

A stately retreat, an oasis of calm and beauty. Picnic on the lawns, enjoy a glass of home-produced prosecco beneath a centuries-old tree

A private villa beautifully flanked by gardens bursting with fruit. Here you'll find real Spanish character, style and a sun-trap terrace

A lovely old stone house with a covered veranda and sparkling pool in a small hilltop hamlet overlooking a lush forested valley

Suspended in a sea of trees, this sleek, serene hideout is all about the forest, stars, stillness, and space

Find shade under a cork tree, splash in the pool and wander the garden perfumed by citrus trees. Ideal for families and nature lovers

A splendid landing pad in gorgeous countryside with truly great food at the pub, lovely cottages and rooms over the village shop

An immaculate stable retreat surrounded by gardens near Canterbury. Two couples could spend an idyllic week here, or a family of 5

Another humdinger of a hotel from a very talented team. Hand-picked art, effortlessly cool rooms, tasty local food, a sun terrace and events

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

Quirky townhouse on the edge of the Peak District, with country walks from the door, plus shops, cinema, heritage centre, bistros and pubs

Wooded, lakeside retreat for 1 or 2 – big windows, huge terrace, wood-burner, wide screen. The Jurassic coast a cross-country walk away

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

An 18th-century cottage for four on a working sheep farm: walk the Pentland Hills, get the bus to Edinburgh for culture

A well-equipped cottage with a big beautiful garden and murmuring brook. Come for peace, wildlife, a welcome cocktail, and grand walking

A cottage to help you feel restored and refreshed; uninterrupted views of the coast, a hamper of local produce and wildlife spotting.