Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

'Pinch me' views over Lake Como, a stony beach below, Varenna on your doorstep... these chic apartments are in an idyllic spot

Beautiful, and with a delightfully rambling garden, this early 16th-century manor has bags of room for happy days with family or friends

A honey-hued stone farmhouse or a stylish cottage – both are deep in delicious countryside with lovely walks by the rambling river

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners

A striking 200-year-old coaching inn in a sleepy village with a classic, traditional pub feel, superb food and wines, pretty bedrooms

A true gem - sleep in a small hillside castle, share delicious communal meals, walk or cycle to the beautiful waterfalls nearby

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

Peaceful Highland hideaway on a wooded lochside: spy dolphins and otters, stargaze, and soak up the deep silence

A smart launch pad for visiting all things Champagne-related and Reims with its enchanting cathedral. All is cosy, luxurious...

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

A converted Victorian schoolhouse with a glorious oak bar, an impressive selection of gins, hearty food and attractive bedrooms

Sumptuous bedrooms and delicious breakfasts at these two magnificent wings in glorious gardens and grounds next to the castle

A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views