This fine old Dordogne house is run by well-travelled owners, has superb views and is a luscious mix of old charm and contemporary design

Very private and comfortable rooms with their own entrances at this generous B&B with glorious gardens and views to the Black Mountains

Small country hotel in a riverside setting near Giverny, with a superb restaurant and a charming village a few minutes’ walk away

You’ll feel nicely independent in this spacious open-plan hideaway surrounded by colourful gardens and Corscombe valley views

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

Feather pillows, welcome goodies, an extensive batterie de cuisine... the hosts are super generous, the views are to die for

This fine old inn stands in blissful peace, a field or two back from the coastal path, with cosy rooms, delicious food and a rustic style

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

A 1750 one-storey former farm building, beautifully converted into a lovely hideaway for walkers, nature lovers and peace seekers

A stunning veranda wraps itself around the house: doze off in a wicker armchair or sip a drink at dusk as the sun melts into the valley

Wonky floors and handmade beds in a restored coaching inn for 4, 6 or 8 - sociable evenings round the farmhouse table, walks from the door

Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

Thatched cottage perfect for families; surfing at Croyde, walks on Exmoor, sunny barbecues in the garden and cosying up by the wood-burner

A light larch-clad space for lovers, or a retreat for walkers and writers in pretty Orford, once a medieval sea port but now on the river

Authenticity and originality combine at this family chateau with its panelled rooms, theatrical flourishes and charming candlelit dinners

Enjoy the wine festival in June, the truffles in November, and warm hospitality and discreet luxury all year round

A treat in any season, a place to stir your soul, yield to nature and learn how to play again – with a pretty fine roost to come home to