Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

Painting courses on request, gardens full of roses, a parasol’d terrace, a seductive pool… we love this welcoming, traditional hotel

Bountiful breakfasts, the warmest of owners and Breton adventures. Enjoy romantic ruins, quaint villages and delicious seafood suppers

Two rural retreats up a shared drive for gatherings of friends and family who enjoy the great outdoors and good food from the Meikleour Inn

A stunning setting for this B&B - the village a thousand feet below you and views to both snow-capped Alps and Provence lavender fields

In wild Jura, surrounded by fields and heather-covered hills, a secluded farmhouse with cosy rooms and sublime views of Small Isles Bay

Deliciously comfortable, hospitable, boutique B&B - in a secluded village within easy reach of Reims and the vineyards of Champagne

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves

Landscaped gardens, orchard and potager blend into Normandy countryside. Return from rural walks to a log fire and comfortable armchairs

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is lovely

Vast rooms, thick stone walls and ancient flagged floors skilfully modernised to create comfort, surrounded by romantic château gardens

A cosy nest on the ramparts of an ancient fishing port, with sparkling lagoon views from a top-floor living area

After a bountiful breakfast of Loch Fyne kippers and homemade scones, head for Oban, gateway to the isles. Return to a dram by the fire

Historic buildings by a turreted manor house, beautifully renovated to welcome large parties with grounds to roam and dreamy river views