A peaceful cottage for 2-4 between the Dales and the Moors, with swallows in the barn, an idyllic village, and a garden to explore

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

Shady spots in the garden, a pool overlooked by tall palms, a bar nook stocked with drinks and a new spa in the Serra do Açor

Wrapped in fields and woods, this big traditional house has crisply furnished interiors and plenty of gadgets. Terraced gardens and pool too

A neatly-converted old farmhouse on a quiet country lane with bright living spaces, heated pool, garden and hot tub just minutes from sandy beaches

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

Where else is breakfast served by candlelight in winter? Friendly staff, lovely bedrooms, off-street parking and Arthur’s Seat all wait

Atmospheric English pub with rooms by the green with its duck ponds in a pretty village, with walking and cycling routes to join

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

A fascinating place steeped in history and abuzz with prize-winning winery activity. Plus rustic cottages, golf, a restaurant and 2 pools

Cosy cottage on a working farm just ten miles from Edinburgh with spectacular views, walks from the door and a wood-fired sauna

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

Five guest apartments with views on a family estate with a lake, waterfall and space to roam set deep in the Umbrian hills near Perugia

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant