A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

An organic farm near coast, village and Etna – super for families, done in simple good taste. Laze in the hammock, visit the coast...

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

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

A renovated, comfy Victorian cottage behind a small village pub, a hub for the local community and with good food, ales and wine

A countryside escape for 2 near Chepstow with traditional interiors and cheery wood-burner. Not suitable for children but dogs very welcome

A confident style for this mid-19th-century house, with a Mediterranean garden, elegant terrace and pool, a stroll from the historic centre

You'll find comfortable rooms, great food and a lovely bar at this friendly inn – Heartbeat country, Castle Howard and Whitby all wait

Three very special places to stay on one glorious estate. Gather those whose company you enjoy and immerse yourselves in beauty and history

This hidden valley is the dreamiest part of South Devon. Catch the ferry across the Dart; gaze on the hills; snuggle up by the wood-burner

Your very own château in the Dordogne for big family get-togethers and special celebrations

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

No-nonsense farm conversions with open, airy rooms and good big showers sharing a pool, a playground and fabulous views. Great walks, too

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

A light-filled B&B packed with family memories and heirlooms in a small hamlet tucked into the foothills of the Dolomites

A treat in any season, a place to stir your soul, yield to nature and learn how to play again - with a pretty fine roost to come home to