A smart village local with original timber frames, a lively bar, elegant rooms and delicious food from the fields around you

An ivy-covered old mill, newly restored as an inn with a relaxed feel, acres of manicured grounds, comfortable bedrooms and great food

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

One of Scotland’s coolest hotels waits at the end of a four-mile track - you find loch, mountain and sky, and Tom’s fabulous food

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

Two cosy cottages on a former winemaking estate with private terraces, a shared pool, stunning views and glorious walks from the door

A truly peaceful and charming hideout in a joyful, bird-filled setting - look after yourselves and retreat, or be thoroughly spoiled

Wine lovers adore this impeccably furnished château; lovely Anne meets and greets, Jean Christophe makes wine and takes charge of tastings

Experience the pleasures of traditional Tuscan living with fabulous food and fine wines from the family vineyard

A hop from the coast and charming Alnwick, a gorgeous and supremely comfortable country escape for friends and families. Dogs welcome too

Wake to ocean views, breakfast overlooking the sea and a beach stroll in the afternoon from this smart lodge on the Dunskey Estate

A 1980s Catalan mas built in a traditional style, with garden and pool, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards near the Spanish border

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way