A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

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

A classic French beauty of a place; home to an engaging young family who love to entertain and look after you with great care

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

Smart country inn in Constable country with lovely rooms and food - grab a picnic, hire a boat and drift along the river Stour

By a bubbling brook in the Mendips, close to Bath and Bristol, a wonderfully revived and welcoming inn with smart rooms and scrumptious food

A gorgeous house, beautifully refurbished in contemporary style, with chic interiors and a swimming pool in a sublime English garden

The views are breathtaking over forest and field from this lovely barn conversion on a working farm, for special gatherings

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

In the heart of a pretty village next to a picturesque stream, your elegant B&B is a haven of peace and quiet. La Rochelle is close

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

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

A beautifully restored listed barn of Westmorland stone sitting in a conservation area village in spectacular walking country, near Appleby

At the foot of the Cambrian Mountains, an ancient whitewashed cottage with cosy, light-flooded interiors – a perfect rural bolthole for two

Deep in undulating countryside, three pretty stone cottages with a shared, family-friendly saltwater pool and charming, generous owners

Welcome to a cosy, country-rustic bolthole for four, in a friendly, community village inn, with some of the best food in Shropshire