Close to Girona, with huge valley views! Cosy fires for cool days, shady corners for hot ones, lovely people, and the food a revelation

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines

Romantics will love this small converted hut-on-a-hillside surrounded by pines and olives with stunning views over the old town and the sea

Traditional and modern mix beautifully and bedrooms are quietly elegant. Relax and drink in the views over orchards and the Sierra Nevada

High on a hill in the Tyne Valley, undisturbed except by birds singing and the wind whistling; views swoop down to a magical landscape

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

An elegant hotel that feels like a well-kept secret, with charming staff, understated rooms and great restaurants a short walk away

Picturesque cottage in the grounds of a grand manor, lovingly and creatively restored by its welcoming English owner

A thoughtful conversion of an old farm barn with beautifully-beamed interiors - a flawless, rural escape for romantics and dreamers

Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

Remote and rural, this cosy cottage is a slice of Welsh heaven, with plenty to do and see just a short drive away

Cross an ancient stone bridge to a 1790s estate cottage, completely on its own down a little-used green lane and with the river rushing by

Come for peace, space and much comfort in this nifty house with gorgeous views over acres of vines from the terrace and pool

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

Crackling fires in winter, croquet in the summer. Life ticks by peacefully - rooms are engagingly old-fashioned, the garden is much-loved

Up the winding road to stillness, nature and a magical view. There’s glorious Gubbio to explore, and a log fire to come home to

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

A destination for epicurians who also want exquisite surroundings and comfortable bedrooms. A charming garden too with a very French feel