Dinner fresh from the garden with your creative hosts is an absolute delight. Roam unspoilt countryside, visit châteaux and vineyards galore

A small, rural cottage high in the wooded hills with long views, your own private pool, utter peace and quiet and a superb restaurant nearby

Rolling lawns, Georgian glamour and countryside views – gather the gang for slow days, wild walks and starry Northumberland skies

Hike down secret paths and along the Suffolk coast before a superb lunch or supper at this friendly inn; sweet bedrooms too

A welcoming country-house hotel that’s popular with locals and visitors alike - good food, stylish rooms and an airy restaurant wait

Dreamy, languid beauty at this spacious, airy, arty house with garden and pool in typical Pugliese countryside

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

Leave crowds behind for this charming stone farmhouse in the olive groves of rural Umbria – bring friends and have it all to yourselves

Medieval manor house and busy farm. A welcoming atmosphere, big bedrooms, breakfast in the baronial great hall by the cosy log fire

A hop from St Mark’s Square, this long-standing hotel - a delightful family affair - could not be better placed for exploring Venice

Great staff, beautiful design, a fine old building and sublime food make this 600-year-old inn a perfect escape all year round

Come to slow down and be well fed at this beautiful 14th-century manor with 60 acres of grounds and views across the Cotswolds

Generous, convivial space for big gatherings. A fantastic pool, plenty of outdoor space, and fun and games to keep everyone entertained

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

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

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site