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

A very special renovation of a 12th-century convent, now an elegant, tranquil place to stay with beautiful, bird-filled gardens

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

A sweet bolthole for two and a babe-in-arms or pooch in friendly, foodie Ramsbottom with walks straight into woods and moors

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

A light, spacious villa in the colonial style designed for easy indoor/outdoor living, with garden, pool and the beach just a short stroll

An 18th-century coaching inn wrapped in countryside now a relaxed pub with rooms serving excellent food and drink with 16 inviting bedrooms

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

Come to unwind in nature, surrounded by sun-drenched fields in this large, rustic but elegant villa with courtyard, garden and pool

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

Vast house on an ancient Roman site with big terraced garden and pool. Grand yet homely, with air-con, spa and only 8 km to the city

A spectacular hillside house, with brilliant food, welcoming hosts, wonderful walks all around and views to Windemere beyond

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

This elegantly restored house with stunning views to snow-capped peaks is a testament to the owners' love of art and antiques

A cool pub with smart rooms, English ales and Thai-inspired food. Farringdon tube is round the corner and you can walk to the Barbican

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

Take your time here. Lucy will take you round her wonderful garden, introduce you to her donkeys, and share her laid-back approach