An art-filled home poised above Hastings Old Town in a wonderfully private, peaceful spot and with a lush, tropical garden

Take your pick from guided horse-trekking to grand banqueting at this traditional château; drive to explore WWI history and the lovely coast

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

Glass-and-timber doors bathe you with light, gaze at big skies and the river Dart lapping. Sublime year round, it's one of our favourites

A substantial old house, originally built in 1836 and recently renovated, for grand special occasions with stunning views and a hot tub

A hammock by the pool, dinner under the stars, Andalucian nature (wild boar, birds, olives) all around. Chatty English hosts charm all

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon

A stylish, refined 17th-century house off a quiet street with its own garden and lots of generous surprises, a short hop to everything

Peaceful Georgian house with beautifully proportioned rooms, sumptuous meals, swimming and tennis. Dartmoor is on the doorstep

Come for strawberries in summer, walnuts in winter, and a wonderful welcome all year round. Thierry and Charlotte are living their dream

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

A 1750 one-storey former farm building, beautifully converted into a lovely hideaway for walkers, nature lovers and peace seekers

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

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

A 16th-century characterful gem right on the harbourside, serving excellent food at reasonable prices and with pleasant bedrooms

Manicured exteriors surround this 18th-century hamlet, a cluster of restored buildings with nine apartments, restaurant, pool and small spa

Another bright, beamed and history-filled place to stay on the smart Upton Cressett estate with walks from the door and much comfort within